How we'll work together

Five values guide every engagement. The first three describe what we deliver; the last two describe how we work with you.

We keep communication documented and secure so there's always a clear record to refer back to. This protects you, keeps everyone on the same page, and means nothing important gets lost in a phone call no one wrote down. Here's how we use each channel and when you can expect a response.

Why response times matter to you: Setting clear expectations means you're never left wondering whether we received something or when you'll hear back. During our busiest stretches, response times may run slightly longer, and we'll always let you know. For anything time-sensitive, a scheduled call is the fastest way to get focused attention.

Working together virtually: Communication is primarily through email and the secure client portal, which keeps a documented history for future reference. Documents are shared electronically through the secure portal, never by unencrypted email or text.

We work by appointment so we can give each conversation our full attention rather than fielding interruptions throughout the day. This is intentional: focused, scheduled time means better answers and fewer mistakes than a rushed call between other tasks.

To reach us, email is always welcome and you can schedule a call or meeting through Calendly at a time that works for you. If something is time-sensitive, note that in your message and we'll prioritize accordingly.

We're currently accepting new clients and would be glad to hear from you. Whether you're an individual, a family, or a business owner, getting started is simple and there's no pressure along the way.

• Tell us about yourself. Complete our secure Work With Us form. It only takes a few minutes and opens in a new tab.
• We'll review and reach out. We look at your information promptly and follow up to confirm next steps, or to ask for anything else we need to understand your situation.
• We get you set up. From there we'll onboard you to your secure portal, send any organizers or requests, and start working together with clear timelines and no guesswork.

Here's how a typical tax engagement flows, from start to filing, so you know what to expect and when.

• Engagement first. A signed engagement letter is required before we begin any filing work, including extensions. This defines exactly what we'll handle for you and protects both of us by putting the scope in writing.
• Intake and organizer. Once the engagement letter is signed, you'll receive intake forms and an organizer. Completing these thoroughly is essential for an accurate return and to meet the due-diligence requirements we're professionally obligated to follow.
• Document upload. You'll upload your documents securely through the portal. The more complete your submission, the faster and smoother the process. We'll let you know if anything is missing.
• Preparation and review. We prepare your return and review it carefully for accuracy. If questions come up, we'll reach out. Nothing is filed until it's been checked and you've had a chance to understand it.
• Automated follow-ups. You'll receive periodic reminders for any open items until they're resolved, so nothing slips through the cracks during a busy season.
• Deadlines matter. Specific submission deadlines are communicated in advance. To file your return on time, we need your complete information by the date we give you. Work received after that may require an extension.
• Extensions are a tool, not a red flag. An extension does not increase your audit risk. It simply gives us the time needed to do careful, accurate work for your specific situation, especially when documents arrive late or a return is complex.

Tax planning isn't a single event, it's an ongoing conversation throughout the year. Here's how it works and why the timing matters.

• Planning is tailored to you. Timelines are set based on your specific situation and are typically scheduled ahead of relevant payment or filing deadlines, so recommendations can actually be acted on before it's too late.
• Proactive beats reactive, every time. Year-round planning is where the real value is created. It helps you avoid surprises, gives you more flexibility in strategy, and aligns your tax obligations with your cash flow instead of leaving you scrambling to write a check you didn't see coming.
• Key moments we plan around. Life changes like a new job, a raise, a home purchase, a growing business, a marriage, or a new child all have tax consequences. The best time to talk through them is before they happen or as soon as they do, not the following spring.
• Questions are always welcome. Some questions have a quick answer; others turn into a larger project. Either way, we'll talk through your options at a level you're comfortable with and be clear about anything that falls outside your current engagement.

We use a focused set of tools to make working together secure and straightforward. You don't need to be tech-savvy, everything is designed to be simple, and we'll help you get set up. Here's what you'll interact with directly:

• Secure client portal. Your home base for messaging, uploading and downloading documents, e-signatures, organizers, proposals, and invoices, all accessible anytime with your own login. See our Client Portal page for login and setup tips.
• Online scheduling. Book calls and meetings through Calendly at a time that works for you, without the back-and-forth of finding a slot.
• Secure intake forms. Share what we need to get started through encrypted forms, so sensitive information never travels by unprotected email or text.

Behind the scenes, we use professional-grade tax, planning, and practice-management software to keep your work organized, accurate, and on schedule. You get the benefit of that infrastructure without having to think about it.

Protecting your information is a core part of how we operate, not an afterthought. We maintain a written information security program and follow applicable professional and regulatory standards, including IRS guidance (Publication 4557), the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act Safeguards Rule, and the New York SHIELD Act.

• Sensitive documents are exchanged only through the encrypted client portal, never by unencrypted email or text message.
• Access to firm systems requires unique logins and multi-factor authentication.
• We work with established, security-vetted software providers.
• Professional standards prohibit sharing your information with third parties without your consent.

A copy of our information security and confidentiality practices is available to clients on request. If you ever have a question about how your data is handled, just ask, we're happy to walk you through it.

Richter Tax & Advisory brings tax expertise and financial insight together so your decisions work as a whole rather than in isolation. Here's what we offer:

• Tax Planning. Proactive, year-round strategy so you're never caught off guard. We look ahead at your income, deductions, and major decisions to keep you in the best possible position before deadlines arrive.
• Tax Preparation. Accurate, thorough preparation of your returns, from individual filings to complex business, trust, and estate returns, with a plain-language walkthrough before anything is filed.
• Bookkeeping. Clean, accurate books in QuickBooks Online, kept current on a set schedule, so your numbers are always ready for tax time, a loan, or a decision.

Not sure what you need? That's what the discovery call is for. See our Services & Pricing page for more detail on each.