Since our opening in June 2000, Steward Ingram & Cooper, PLLC has helped clients throughout Raleigh and the surrounding areas file accurate, timely tax returns and build long-term tax planning strategies. Many of our clients now reside in other states, but due to our virtual meeting offerings, we are able to strategize with clients both near and far at their convenience. Tax planning can minimize your tax liabilities and maximize tax efficiency when done correctly, but it takes diligence throughout the year to file with ease come tax season. Our tax planning and tax preparation services are specifically tailored to minimize your tax liability and ensure your taxes are filed accurately and on time, reducing the work you have to put into your tax filing.
We only prepare tax returns for individuals with complex finances, including multi-state filings, stock options, or foreign income as well as business owners. Our fees reflect the additional time and expertise this work requires, particularly for individual tax preparation. We also take on new clients selectively so we can give each return the attention it needs. Please reach out to check our current availability by calling (919) 872-0866 or filling out the form below.
We Extend Our Tax Preparation Services To:
Businesses
From early-stage startups to established LLCs and corporations, we prepare and file business taxes for companies across Raleigh, Cary, and the broader Wake County market. Our CPAs identify tax breaks specific to your entity type and industry, whether you run a professional services firm, a medical or dental practice, a restaurant, or a growing technology company near Research Triangle Park, so you spend less time on tax season and more time running your business.
Individuals
Our tax services are highly customized, so we only work with individuals who have complex tax issues, including multi-state returns, foreign taxes, offshore accounts, stock options, and tax-deferred exchanges. Our fees reflect the time and attention devoted to your return, making this a fit for high-net-worth individuals with layered tax situations.
Estates and Trusts
To help you avoid tax penalties, our CPAs identify and itemize estates and trusts while preparing your return. Our goal is the best possible outcome while properly reporting income received from an estate or trust in the current tax year.
Nonprofits
Most nonprofits do not pay taxes, but you still need to file a return to maintain your tax-exempt status. We prepare Form 990 for Raleigh and Wake County nonprofits so you can share accurate documentation with your board and donors.
Why Raleigh Businesses Trust Our CPAs
Steward Ingram & Cooper, PLLC has prepared tax returns for Raleigh-area businesses and individuals since 2000. Our team includes CPAs, a certified fraud examiner, and certified personal financial specialists, led by Managing Member Jeffrey C. Cooper, CPA. Every return is prepared in-house by a licensed North Carolina CPA, not outsourced or automated, and our team stays involved in the local community through organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Food Bank of Eastern and Central NC.
The Best Time of Year to Start Preparing Taxes
You’ll find that logging your transactions on a regular basis throughout the year is the best approach. Come tax season, you can hand your documents over to your CPA who will review them for accuracy, pinpoint rightful deductions, fill in any gaps, and file on your behalf. Our firm tends to reach capacity several months before the tax deadline approaches. Thus, we encourage you to reach out to us well in advance to secure your spot if you’d like us to prepare and file your taxes.
Tax Planning & Preparation: Frequently Asked Questions
What is tax planning?
Tax planning is reviewing your finances and taking steps that maximize eligible tax deductions and minimize your tax payments at the state and federal levels.
What types of tax planning services do you provide?
We prepare and file business taxes and complex individual taxes (i.e. off-shore bank accounts, multi-state returns, and those with company stock options). We also prepare taxes for nonprofits and those with estates or trusts.
How much does tax preparation cost?
Individual tax returns start at a minimum of $1,000, and business tax returns start at a minimum of $1,750. Because our clients tend to have more complex tax situations, including multi-state returns, foreign income, stock options, and estates or trusts, fees can increase based on the time and expertise a return requires. Full details are on our fee structure page.
Can I deduct tax preparation fees in NC?
In some cases, you can deduct tax preparation fees, but this deduction is not for everyone. For example, you cannot deduct tax fees on personal returns. However, if you are self-employed, this expense is considered an “ordinary necessity” and can therefore be deducted.
What’s the difference between a tax deduction and a tax credit?
A tax deduction reduces your taxable income, so less of your income is subject to tax. A tax credit reduces your tax bill directly by a specific dollar amount. The child tax credit, for example, is $2,000 per qualifying child, regardless of your taxable income.
Are there penalties for late tax filing in North Carolina?
Yes. North Carolina charges a penalty of 5% per month or partial month, up to a maximum of 25% of the tax reported on the return, plus a separate late payment penalty.
Can your tax planners help me with an IRS audit?
As long as we have the capacity to take on new clients, we can. Our tax planning services extend to resolving tax issues, including IRS audits, so if you need to untangle a problem with the IRS or want to protect your future financial security, we can help. Contact us to inquire about our current availability and turnaround time.
Do I need to be local to work with you?
No. While we’re based in Morrisville and serve clients throughout Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Wake Forest, most of our client relationships are handled virtually, including clients residing outside North Carolina.