FAQ

How much do you charge?
Our fees are based on the complexity of the return and the forms required to complete the return so without seeing the return it’s difficult to give a realistic estimate. Most of our clients find that our fees are very reasonable compared to what they’ve paid elsewhere.

What do I need to bring?
For new clients we ask that you bring the social security cards for everyone listed on the return plus a copy of your last year’s return. In addition, this link outlines most of the most common documents and information we need.

If I don’t itemize anymore, do I need to bring in all those documents?
We strongly encourage our clients to continue bringing in all of their tax documents. While unusual, there may be times when tax benefits are available for people even for taxpayers who can no longer itemize.

How long do refunds take?
As a general rule, the IRS issues refund between 14 and 28 days of filing. This is only a guide as sometimes it takes longer or will be quicker—every case is different. On rare occasions, refunds can take much longer.

When should I drop off to make sure my return is completed in time?
The volume of drop-offs increases as the tax season wears on. Early in the season we can usually turn returns around in 1-2 weeks, however, by the time March arrives, the turn around time can be dramatically longer. We strongly encourage clients to have their return information to us no later than March 9^th. Anything dropped off after that may take us past the April 15^thdeadline and necessitate an extension.

If I drop my stuff off, how long will it take for you to finish my return?
We handle returns on a first in, first worked basis, regardless of complexity. The volume of drop-offs increases as the tax season wears on. Early in the season we can usually turn returns around in 1-2 weeks, however, by the time March arrives, turn aroundtimes can be dramatically longer. By the middle of March, it may take 5-6 weeks.

How do I make an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling us at 636.928.1040. You do not need to speak to your preparer. Our front desk staff can get your appointment scheduled for you.

Do I need an appointment to drop off?
An appointment is not required to drop-off. Simply drop by the most convenient office (St. Peters or O’Fallon) and they’ll take your drop-off.

How do extensions work?
In most cases, an extension gives a taxpayer or company an extra six months to file their return. The exception is for estates and trusts that file a form 1041—that extension is only five and a half months. Extensions are useful when you don’t have all of your documents, are planning to be out of the country, need time to finalize bookkeeping, or your tax professional has more work than they can complete before the deadline. An extension, however, does not extend the time to pay your taxes. Any balance due is due on the original due date of the return. When an extension has to be filed, the taxpayer should send a payment in for the amount they expect to owe to avoid failure to pay timely penalties (.5% per month for every month payments are late) and additional interest (IRS charges the prime rate plus 4%). This applies to Missouri returns as well.

How can I get copies of my return?
If Sederburg prepared the return, copies can be obtained by contacting our front desk staff at 636.928.1040 and simply asking them. In the event Sederburg did not file the return, you can ask the company who prepared it or go on-line to IRS.gov, establish an account by verifying your identity, and requesting a transcript.

How do I pay the IRS and Missouri if I owe?
When you owe either entity, your Sederburg preparer will include a voucher(s) in your packet so you can mail a check or money order to whomever you owe. However, if you wish, you can pay the Federal by going to IRS.gov and selecting Pay from the menu at the top. For Missouri, go to dor.mo.gov. From the Taxation tab select either business tax or individual tax, and then pay taxes or request payment plan. Then follow the instructions.

Why am I required to file a St Louis City return?
The City of St Louis has imposed a 1% earnings tax on any income earned in the city or by residents of the city. In many cases this earnings tax is withheld from paychecks. There is no need to file a city return when the employer withholds the 1% correctly. However, if you are self-employed and conduct business within city limits or live in the city but work in the county, you may be required to file a St Louis City return to report the income and pay the tax. The City of St Louis receives a report from the IRS of people who live in the city and had reportable earned income, so failure to file the return will not go unnoticed for long.

Also, since the city does not allow for e-file, your St Louis City return must be mailed.

Why doesn’t my return cost the same as someone else who goes to Sederburg?
Fees for tax preparation services are based on a number of factors, including—but not limited to— the forms required, worksheets required, and time required. More complex returns require more forms and more time, and are thus priced higher than less complicated returns. Even seemingly basic returns can have hidden complexities that increase fees. Sometimes, it may appear that two returns are equal, but are not. There can be worksheets, special calculations or any number of other things that influence the final fee.

If I buy an electric vehicle, do I get a tax credit?
Congress, as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, changed the electric vehicle tax credit to allow some American made vehicles to qualify for the credit. Some used electric vehicles also qualify for a reduced credit. For a complete list of eligible vehicles and income limits to claim the credit visit fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax2023.shtml.

I put a new roof on my house. Is there a tax credit for that?
Unfortunately, the roof no longer qualifies for any of the energy credits. There are several exterior items that do qualify, such as Energy Star rated windows and doors or certain insulations that create an airproof seal.

I put new windows / insulation / doors in. Do I qualify for a tax credit?
Maybe. Doors, windows, insulation, etc. must be Energy Star rated. If they are, they qualify. If not, they do not. Credit for windows is 30% of the cost including installation up to $600 per year. Exterior door credits are limited to $250 each up to $500. Insulation is 30% of the cost including installation up to $1,200. In addition, Energy Star rated heat pumps, biomass stoves and boilers have a separate credit of 30% of the cost including installation up to a maximum of $2,000. Your dealer will have more details or go to IRS.gov/credits-deductions/home-energy-tax-credits.