Individual Tax Return Services
Professional tax preparation for individuals throughout DFW. From simple W-2 returns to complex investment portfolios, rental properties, and multi-state filings.
Here's the thing about tax software: it's great at filling out forms, but it doesn't actually think about your situation. It won't tell you that you're missing a deduction, that your cost basis is wrong, or that there's a smarter way to handle that stock sale. Our DFW CPAs have prepared thousands of individual returns across every level of complexity—we know what to look for and how to optimize your specific situation.
Who We Help
- ✓ W-2 employees at all income levels
- ✓ Freelancers & contractors (1099)
- ✓ Gig workers (Uber, DoorDash, Etsy)
- ✓ Investors (stocks, crypto, funds)
- ✓ Rental property owners
- ✓ Stock options, RSUs, ESPP holders
- ✓ Multi-state filers & remote workers
- ✓ High-net-worth individuals
- ✓ Foreign income & FBAR/FATCA filers
Commonly Missed Deductions
| Deduction | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Office | For qualifying self-employed individuals |
| Investment Interest | Margin interest & investment expenses |
| Charitable Donations | Cash + non-cash (properly valued) |
| Medical Expenses | Over 7.5% of AGI |
| Student Loan Interest | Up to $2,500 |
| Educator Expenses | $300 for teachers |
| SALT | Up to $10,000 cap |
| Gambling Losses | To offset winnings only |
Investment & Capital Gains
| Type | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Short-term gains (held <1 year) | Ordinary income rates |
| Long-term gains (held 1+ years) | 0%, 15%, or 20% |
| Qualified dividends | 0%, 15%, or 20% |
| Non-qualified dividends | Ordinary income rates |
We help with:
- Tax-loss harvesting (avoid wash sale rules)
- Cost basis tracking & reconciliation
- Cryptocurrency taxation (trading, staking, DeFi)
- Net Investment Income Tax (3.8% surtax) planning
Equity Compensation
| Type | When Taxed | Tax Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| ISOs | At sale (if qualified) | Capital gains (may trigger AMT) |
| NQSOs | At exercise | Ordinary income |
| RSUs | At vesting | Ordinary income |
| ESPP | At sale | Depends on holding period |
Strategic timing of exercises and sales can save thousands.
Multi-State Filing
Remote work and relocations create tax complexity. We handle:
- Part-year resident returns (mid-year moves)
- Non-resident returns for out-of-state income
- Proper income allocation between states
- Credits to prevent double taxation
- State-specific deductions & credits
Life Events & Tax Implications
| Event | Tax Impact |
|---|---|
| Marriage | Filing status, bracket changes, potential bonus/penalty |
| Divorce | Alimony rules, property division, dependents |
| New Child | Child Tax Credit, Dependent Care Credit |
| Home Purchase | Mortgage interest, property tax deductions |
| Home Sale | $250K/$500K exclusion may apply |
| Inheritance | Step-up in basis, estate/income implications |
| Retirement | Income source changes, bracket shifts |
| Start Business | New deductions, self-employment tax |
Audit Support
Every return includes audit protection:
- Review and explain any IRS notice
- Gather documentation and respond on your behalf
- Full representation under Circular 230
- Negotiate with examiners for complex audits
Pro Tips
Organize Before You Start
Gather all W-2s, 1099s, receipts, and last year's return before meeting with us. Complete documentation means faster preparation and fewer missed deductions.
Don't Ignore 1099-K
Payment platforms like PayPal, Venmo, and Etsy now report transactions over $600. Make sure this income is properly reported—the IRS receives a copy too.
Keep Investment Records
Track your cost basis for all investments, especially if you've transferred accounts between brokers. Incorrect basis leads to overpaying taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help With Your Taxes?
Our DFW CPAs specialize in helping individuals and businesses minimize their tax burden. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.