Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about our tax preparation services, process, and how we can help you.
Oregon Tax Questions
What's the Oregon Kicker?
Oregon returns surplus tax revenue to taxpayers as a credit on their state return when collections exceed forecasts by more than 2%. 2025 is a kicker year—your credit is based on a percentage of your 2024 Oregon tax liability. We'll make sure you claim it correctly.
What's new for 2025 taxes?
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act brought several important changes for 2025, including new deductions for tip income, overtime pay, and an enhanced deduction for seniors 65 and older. Combined with the Oregon Kicker credit, there's a lot to take advantage of. We stay current on all changes so you don't have to.
How long does it take to get my return done?
Most returns are completed within two weeks of receiving all your documents. During peak season (February-April), it may take a bit longer. Complex business returns may need additional time.
Do you work with clients outside Oregon?
Yes! As an Enrolled Agent, I'm federally licensed to prepare taxes for clients in any state.
Tax Preparation Process
What documents do I need to prepare my taxes?
The documents you need depend on your specific situation, but common ones include W-2s, 1099s, your prior year return, and bank account information for direct deposit. Once you get in touch, I'll let you know exactly what I need for your situation.
How do I send my documents securely?
You can upload documents to our secure portal, TaxDome—everything is encrypted. You can even snap photos from your phone. I never ask clients to send sensitive information through regular email.
What happens after I submit my documents?
I review everything, reach out if I have any questions about your situation, prepare your return, and send it to you for review. Once you're satisfied, you sign electronically and I file it for you. The whole process is designed to be as hands-off for you as possible.
Can you help with prior year returns?
Yes, I can help with returns going back several years. Whether you missed a filing deadline or need to correct a previous return, reach out and we'll figure out the best approach for your situation.
Services & Expertise
How is an Enrolled Agent different from a CPA?
Both Enrolled Agents and CPAs can represent you before the IRS. The key difference is that Enrolled Agents specialize exclusively in taxation—it's all we do. We're federally licensed by the U.S. Treasury and must pass a rigorous IRS examination. Think of us as tax specialists with the same representation rights as CPAs and tax attorneys.
Can you file amended returns?
Yes. If you discover an error on a previously filed return, or if you received a corrected tax document after filing, I can prepare an amended return. Reach out and we'll discuss whether an amendment makes sense for your situation.
Do you offer year-round tax planning?
Absolutely. Tax planning shouldn't just happen in April. I offer advisory services throughout the year, including estimated tax payment calculations, entity structure optimization, and retirement planning strategies. Proactive planning can save you significantly come tax time.
Financial Concerns
What if I owe taxes and can't pay?
There are several options available, and the right one depends on your situation. These can include installment agreements, penalty abatement, and other programs. As an Enrolled Agent, I can represent you directly with the IRS to work out the best solution. Don't let fear of owing keep you from filing—reach out and we'll figure it out together.
Are your fees tax-deductible?
For business-related returns (like business tax returns, partnership returns, and S-corp returns), tax preparation fees are generally deductible as a business expense. For personal returns, the rules changed with the 2018 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. We can discuss how this applies to your specific situation.
Common Tax Situations
I'm a freelancer/gig worker. Can you help?
Absolutely—I work with many freelancers, independent contractors, and gig workers. From quarterly estimated taxes to maximizing your deductions (home office, mileage, health insurance, and more), I'll make sure you're set up correctly and not paying more than you need to.
I moved to/from Oregon this year. How does that affect my taxes?
Moving between states can make your tax situation more complex. You may need to file part-year resident returns in both states, and each state has its own rules about what income gets taxed where. Every situation is unique—reach out and we'll figure out the best approach for you.
What if I missed the filing deadline?
Don't panic—you can still file. Extensions may be available, and I can help minimize any penalties or interest that may apply. The sooner you reach out, the more options we have. Contact me and we'll get you caught up.
Trust & Security
How do you protect my personal information?
Security is something I take very seriously. I maintain a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) as required by the IRS, use an encrypted client portal for all document exchange, and never send sensitive information via regular email. Your data is protected both in transit and at rest.
About Us
Why Cherry Blossom Tax?
Salem is known as the Cherry City, and cherry blossoms bloom right as tax season gets into full swing each spring. It felt like a natural fit.
Still have questions?
We're happy to help. Reach out and let's talk about your specific situation.
Get in Touch