--- title: "FAQ" description: "Answers to common questions about tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, IRS letters and working with Mark Patty & Associates in Shelby, NC." url: https://markpattyaccounting.com/resources/faq lang: en last_modified: 2026-09-30 --- # Frequently asked questions Answers to common questions. ### How do I become a client? Call (704) 471-1414 or book an appointment online. We'll set a time and tell you what to bring or securely send. ### Do I need to come into the office? No. We work with clients who live nearby and hours away. You can share documents through the secure portal link we email you and meet with us by phone or video call. You're always welcome at 724 South Morgan Street. ### Where are you located? 724 South Morgan Street, Shelby, NC 28150, with on-site parking and a wheelchair-accessible entrance. Contact ### What are your hours? Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and after hours by appointment. ### How much does tax preparation cost? It depends on what your return needs. We'll give you a clear price before we start. Tax Preparation ### What should I bring? A photo ID, last year's return and all your income forms. Tax Appointment Checklist ### When are returns due? Most 2026 individual returns are due April 15, 2027. Tax Deadlines ### How do I check my refund? Use the IRS and NCDOR “Where's My Refund?” tools. Where's My Refund? ### How do I know my return was actually filed? Sign in to your IRS online account. Once the IRS has processed your return, your tax records show there. You sign in with ID.me, and we suggest every client set it up. → Your IRS Online Account ### Does North Carolina tax Social Security? No. North Carolina lets you deduct Social Security benefits that were taxed on your federal return. NC Retirement Income ### Should I use a free tax program? If your return is simple, a free IRS-sponsored program may be enough. A paid professional is worth it for business or rental income, several years to catch up on, or an IRS letter. ### Is it worth hiring a bookkeeper? If the books take time from your business or you're behind, usually yes. Bookkeeping ### Can you catch me up if I'm behind? Yes. We'll start with what you have and work forward. Bookkeeping ### Do you help with QuickBooks? Yes: setup, cleanup and training. QuickBooks Help ### Do accountants usually do payroll? Many do, and we do. Payroll ### What do I need before hiring my first employee? An EIN, state withholding and unemployment registration, and new-hire forms. New Employer Guide ### I got a letter from the IRS. What now? Read it, note the response date and don't ignore it. Got a Letter from the IRS? ### Can you talk to the IRS for me? Yes. Mark is an Enrolled Agent with unlimited representation rights before the IRS. IRS Help ### What if I can't pay what I owe? The IRS offers short-term and long-term payment plans. IRS Payment Plans ### What is an Enrolled Agent? A tax professional licensed by the IRS to represent taxpayers. Enrolled Agent or CPA? ### Is Mark a CPA? No. Mark is an Enrolled Agent, which means he is licensed by the IRS and can represent you before it. Enrolled Agent or CPA? ### Do you offer insurance? We can talk through Medicare supplements, life insurance, long-term care and annuities. --- Mark Patty & Associates, LLC 724 South Morgan Street, Shelby, NC 28150 Phone: (704) 471-1414 Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. After hours by appointment. Page: https://markpattyaccounting.com/resources/faq