Tax Preparation FAQ — Answers to Your Most Common Questions

We know taxes can feel confusing. That’s why we put together answers to the tax questions our clients ask most about our tax preparation services. Whether you need help with filing taxes, refunds, ITIN services, or business taxes, you’ll find answers right here. If your question isn’t listed, contact us — our team is happy to help in English and Spanish.

General Tax Filing

When is the deadline to file my tax return?

Most taxpayers must file their federal income tax return by April 15 each calendar year. If that date falls on a weekend or holiday, the IRS moves the deadline to the next business day. If you can’t file your taxes on time, you can request an extension — but you still need to pay any taxes you owe by the original date. Filing late without an extension can lead to penalties, fees, and interest.

What happens if I file my taxes after the deadline?

If you missed the deadline, file as soon as you can. The IRS charges a failure-to-file penalty plus interest on any taxes you owe. The longer you wait, the more fees add up. If you’re owed a refund, there’s no penalty for filing taxes late — but you only have three years to claim it. We serve many clients who need to catch up on past-due returns. Our tax preparation team at Quetzal Taxes can help you get current with the IRS.

What is the difference between a tax deduction and a tax credit?

A tax deduction lowers the amount of income you’re taxed on. A tax credit lowers the actual taxes you owe, dollar for dollar. Credits are usually worth more. Common deductions include property taxes, mortgage interest, and business expenses. Common credits include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit. Tax law changes every year, so our tax preparation services review your return to find every deduction and credit you qualify for.

Do I need to file a tax return if I get paid in cash?

Yes. The IRS requires you to report all income, including cash payments. If you earned money, it counts as taxable income, even if you didn’t receive a W-2 or 1099 form. Filing your taxes keeps you in compliance with the law and can help you claim credits and refunds you might be entitled to. Our tax professionals help many clients who earn cash income file their taxes correctly.

Should I e-file my tax return or mail it in?

We strongly recommend e-filing. When your taxes are e-filed, the IRS processes them much faster than a paper return. Refunds from e-filed returns usually arrive in about 21 days with direct deposit — a paper return can take 6–8 weeks or more before you see your refund. At Quetzal Taxes, we e-file every tax return we prepare as part of our tax preparation services — no extra fee for electronic filing.

Refunds & IRS Issues

Why is my tax refund taking so long?

If your return was e-filed with direct deposit, most refunds arrive in about 21 days. Paper returns can take 6–8 weeks. Delays can happen if the IRS needs to review your return, if there’s an error on a form, or if you claimed certain credits like the EITC. You can check your refund status on the IRS website using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool. If you filed your taxes through our office and need help, contact us, and we’ll look into it for you.

What should I do if I get a notice from the IRS?

Don’t panic — but don’t ignore it either. IRS notices can be about missing information, a balance you owe, or an audit of your return. Read the letter carefully and note any deadlines. Many notices just need a simple response or a corrected form. If you’re unsure what it means, bring it to our Greenville office. Our team can review the notice, prepare your response, and help you resolve the issue. We also offer IRS tax-audit representation, so you don’t have to face the IRS alone.

Can I set up a payment plan if I owe the IRS?

If you owe taxes to the IRS and can’t pay the full amount, you can request an installment agreement. The IRS offers payment plans that let you pay what you owe in monthly payments. There may be a small service fee for installment plans. You may also qualify for an Offer in Compromise, which lets you settle your tax debt for less than the full amount. Our tax debt relief services help clients work out the best path to get current with the IRS.

What is an amended tax return, and when do I need one?

An amended return (Form 1040-X) is used to fix a mistake on a tax return you already filed. You might need one if you forgot to report income, claimed the wrong filing status, or missed a deduction or credit. You can also file an amended return if you get a corrected W-2 or 1099 form after filing your taxes. Don’t wait — the sooner you fix the error, the less likely you are to face an audit, penalties, or interest from the IRS.

ITIN & Filing Without a Social Security Number

How do I apply for an ITIN number?

To apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), you submit Form W-7 to the IRS along with your federal income tax return. You’ll also need to provide proof of identity — usually your passport (original document, not a copy). The process can take 7–11 weeks. The Quetzal Taxes team handles the full ITIN and W-7 application for you and files your taxes at the same time. You don’t have to mail your passport — our ITIN services include verifying your documents right here in our Greenville office.

Does filing taxes with an ITIN affect my immigration status?

No. Filing taxes with an ITIN does not affect your immigration status. The IRS and immigration services are separate agencies. The IRS does not share taxpayer information with immigration authorities. Filing your taxes actually shows good faith and financial responsibility, which can support future immigration applications. We serve many immigrant clients and families in Greenville, and our tax preparation services are here for you with complete privacy.

What is the difference between an ITIN and a Social Security number?

A Social Security number is issued by the Social Security Administration and is used for work, benefits, and taxes. An ITIN is issued only by the IRS and is used only for filing taxes. If you are not eligible for an SSN but need to file a federal income tax return, you need an ITIN. An ITIN does not give you work authorization or eligibility for Social Security benefits. Our tax services team helps clients determine which form of ID they need and helps them through the process.

Business Taxes & LLC

What is an EIN, and do I need one for my business?

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a Social Security number for your company. The IRS uses it to identify your business for tax filing and reporting. You need an EIN if your company has employees, operates as an LLC or corporation, or files certain business tax forms. Even sole proprietors may need one to open a business bank account or set up accounting and payroll services. We help business owners register their company, get an EIN, and get set up the right way.

How often do I need to file sales tax in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, most businesses file sales tax monthly, but the frequency depends on how much sales tax you collect. Smaller businesses may qualify to file quarterly or even annually. You must register with the SC Department of Revenue before collecting sales tax. Late filing can result in fees, penalties, and interest on your taxes. Our accounting services team helps local businesses in Greenville stay on top of their sales tax filing schedule.

What forms do I need to file for my LLC?

It depends on how your LLC is taxed. A single-member LLC usually files on Schedule C as part of your personal income tax return (Form 1040). A multi-member LLC typically files Form 1065. If your company elected to be taxed as an S-Corp, you’ll file Form 1120-S. You may also need to file quarterly estimated taxes and state tax forms for South Carolina. Quetzal Taxes handles business tax preparation for all LLC types — our services make sure your company files the right forms on time.

About Quetzal Taxes

Do you offer tax services in Spanish?

Yes — 100%. Quetzal Taxes was built to serve the Hispanic community in Greenville, SC. Our entire team speaks fluent Spanish and English. You’ll never need a translator at our office. From your first call to your completed tax return, we handle all our services in the language you prefer — taxes, accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, and more. We’re proud to serve our clients, families, and business owners across Greenville and Upstate South Carolina.

Do I need an appointment, or do you take walk-ins?

We accept walk-ins during business hours when our schedule allows. But we recommend scheduling an appointment so we can give you our full attention and have everything ready for your visit. The best way to guarantee your appointment is to call us at +1 (864) 246-1117 or send us a message to set up a time. Whether you need help with taxes, accounting, or any of our other services, we’ll be ready for you.

Where is your office and what are your hours?

Our office is at 6300 White Horse Rd #122, Greenville, SC 29611. We’re open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM. We are closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. Our tax preparation, accounting, and financial services are available year-round — not just during tax season.Get directions and contact ushere.

Still Have Questions?

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our team is ready to help with any questions about taxes, accounting, or our services. Call us at (864) 246-1117 or send us a message. We respond fast and with no obligation. Quetzal Taxes has been providing tax preparation services to clients and families in Greenville, SC, for over 20 years — and we guarantee accurate, personal attention to every person we serve.