Client Guide:

How We Work Together at CABA CPAs

This page is designed to give you a clear understanding of how we work together, what to expect throughout the year, and how to think about your business from a tax and planning perspective.

Our goal is to make the financial side of your business feel more clear, more manageable, and less reactive.

You don’t need to memorize everything here — just know this is a place you can come back to whenever questions come up.

Communication

When to reach out

You don’t need to wait for a formal meeting to ask a question.

If something comes up — a decision, a change in your business, or something you’re unsure about — it’s usually best to reach out sooner rather than later.

What we need from you

Timely and accurate information helps us give you better, more relevant guidance.

We may reach out with questions throughout the year, and prompt responses help keep everything moving smoothly and allow us to support you more effectively.

What to keep us informed about

Please let us know if:

  • your revenue changes significantly

  • you’re planning a large purchase or investment

  • you’re hiring employees or contractors

  • you open or close business accounts

  • you take on a loan or financing

  • your business structure or ownership changes

If you’re ever unsure whether something is worth mentioning, it usually is.

How We Work Together

What does working together look like?

Our approach is centered around proactive planning — not just year-end tax filing.

This means:

  • conversations throughout the year, not just during tax season

  • reviewing your numbers before key decisions are made

  • helping you understand how different choices may affect your taxes

The goal is to help you feel more confident in your decisions and avoid surprises whenever possible.

Good Habits That Make a Difference

Keeping business and personal finances separate

Keeping these separate makes everything clearer — both for tax purposes and for understanding your business.

If something gets mixed by mistake, it’s usually not a problem — just let us know so it can be handled correctly.

Receipts

You don’t need a complicated system.

A simple, consistent approach (saving receipts digitally or using a tool) is usually enough.

Receipts are mainly important in the event of an audit, especially for larger or cash-based transactions.

Hiring, Payroll & 1099s

Contractor vs. employee

This is a common area of confusion, and it’s not something you choose — it depends on how the work relationship is structured.

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask before making a decision.

Hiring your first employee

Bringing on an employee changes a few things from both a tax and administrative perspective.

If you’re considering this, we recommend talking through it ahead of time so you know what to expect.

Paying contractors

It’s best practice to collect a W-9 from contractors and ensure payments are handled in a way that aligns with reporting requirements.

If you’re unsure how to set this up, we can help guide you.

Tax Considerations

Estimated taxes

Estimated payments are based on your income throughout the year.

They don’t need to be exact, but they should be reviewed periodically as your business changes.

What you can (and can't) deduct

In general, business expenses should be ordinary and necessary for your work.

If something could be considered personal, it’s worth checking before assuming it qualifies.

Business mileage

If you use your vehicle for business, tracking mileage consistently is the easiest way to take advantage of this deduction.

Planning Throughout the Year

When should we be thinking about tax planning?

Most meaningful tax decisions happen during the year — not at filing time.

That’s why we focus on:

  • checking in on your numbers periodically

  • discussing decisions before they’re finalized

  • adjusting as your business evolves

Even small conversations at the right time can make a meaningful difference.

Partnerships & Referrals

Can I refer someone to you?

If you know another business owner who might benefit from a more proactive approach to taxes, we’re always happy to connect.

We’re also glad to collaborate with other professionals you work with when helpful.

Do you offer trainings or speak on podcasts?

Yes — I enjoy sharing practical tax guidance and business considerations in settings outside of client work as well.

I’m happy to participate in podcast conversations, contribute to educational content, or provide trainings for groups, programs, or communities where it would be helpful.

If you have something in mind, feel free to reach out — I’m always open to thoughtful collaborations.