--- title: "Tax Preparation" description: "Individual and small business tax preparation in Shelby, NC by Enrolled Agent Mark Patty. Federal and NC returns, no need to come in. Call (704) 471-1414." url: https://markpattyaccounting.com/services/tax-preparation lang: en last_modified: 2026-09-30 --- # Tax preparation in Shelby, done right and explained clearly Your federal and North Carolina returns, prepared by an Enrolled Agent who asks the right questions and tells you what the numbers mean. - Enrolled Agent, licensed by the IRS - Individual and small business returns ## We help when your taxes aren't simple, and when they are - You want someone to check everything, not just type it in. - You started a side business or got your first 1099. - You're retired and want your return done right. - You own rental property. - You missed a year, or a few, and want to get current. - You need to fix a return that's already been filed. ## What we take care of - Individual federal and North Carolina returns - Small business returns and self-employment income - Rental property and investment income - Retirement income and Social Security - Amended returns and prior-year returns - Estimated tax payment planning for next year - Help understanding any letter that arrives after you file ## How your tax appointment works 1. **Book a time.** Call or book online. We'll confirm by phone. 2. **Bring or securely send what you have.** Use our checklist, then visit or use your emailed portal link. We'll tell you what's missing. 3. **Review and sign.** We walk you through your return before anything is filed, and file it electronically. ## An Enrolled Agent on your return Mark Patty has been an Enrolled Agent since 2013. That license comes from the IRS, and it means he can speak for you if the IRS ever has questions about your return. You'll work with him directly, year after year, whether you visit the office or work with him remotely. ## What tax preparation costs Every return is different, so we price by what your return actually needs. A simple return costs less than one with a business or rental property. We'll give you a clear price before any work starts. ## Common questions ### What should I bring to my tax appointment? A photo ID, last year's return, and your income documents such as W-2s, 1099s and Social Security statements. Our free checklist lists everything by situation. ### How long does it take? Most returns are ready soon after we have all your documents. The busiest weeks are just before April 15, so booking early helps. ### Do you prepare North Carolina returns too? Yes. We prepare your federal and North Carolina returns together. ### Should I use a free tax program instead? If your return is simple, a free IRS-sponsored program may be all you need. A paid preparer is worth it when you have business or rental income, several years to catch up on, or a letter from the IRS, or when you simply want a professional checking everything. ### Is it better to go to an Enrolled Agent, a CPA or a tax chain? All three can prepare a return. Enrolled Agents specialize in taxes and are licensed by the IRS to represent you. With us, the same person handles your return every year and is here after April too. ### Can you file a return from a past year? Yes. We can prepare returns for earlier years and help you get current. --- 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/services/tax-preparation