Below we’ve listed our step-by-step process for preparing your returns and making this experience as painless and smooth as possible.
Key Deadlines
Individuals | Partnerships and Corporations | |
Tax Documents Due | As soon as possible | Tuesday, February 17, 2026 |
Extension requests due | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | Monday, March 9, 2026 |
Filing Deadline | Wednesday, April 15, 2026 | Monday, March 16, 2026 |
Filing Deadline with Extensions | Thursday, October 15, 2026 | Wednesday, September 16, 2026 |
Step 1 – Engagement Agreement
Our professional liability insurance providers require Engagement Letters for tax preparation. We have created an easy digital signature process by sending the engagement letter for signature via our Client Portal, or you can get started with printing and signing the pdf version below.
Step 2 – Gather your Tax Documents
Below you will find a link to a checklist of common items we need to file your returns based on your tax situation.
Individual Tax Preparation Checklist
Along with your tax documents you’ll need to submit a tax organizer. You can fill in the digital one online within your client portal account. Or you can select one from the Tax Organizers listed under the Getting Started tab on our website. one of the four tax organizers below that applies to your tax situation. You do not have to fill out every section, only the ones that pertain to you. Be sure to save the pdf file to your computer before you start entering your data to be sure your info is saved on the forms.
We realize this section is a lot to take in, but it really can be a big part of minimizing your tax liability. So come on, dig in, and help us help you! It’s all downhill from here!
2025 Basic Organizer – This organizer is suitable for clients that are not itemizing their deductions and DO NOT have rental property or self-employment expenses.
2025 Basic Organizer plus Itemized Deductions – This organizer is suitable for clients that are itemizing their deductions and DO NOT have rental property or self-employment expenses.
2025 Full Organizer – This organizer includes the information included in the basic organizer, plus entries for itemized deductions, rental properties and self-employment expenses.
2025 Business Organizer – Use this organizer for partnerships and incorporated business entities.
2024 Prior Year Individual Organizer - If you are filing your 2024 return late, please use this organizer.
Step 3 – Send us your info
You have a few options when it comes to delivering the goods, you can scan and upload to the Client Portal, mail, or stop by the office
Client Portal
If you are a new client or have never used our Portal before contact us to receive login and upload instructions to the Client Portal. If you are filing a joint return we’ll need your spouse’s name and email as well. Existing clients can login here if you already have an account.
Once your account is created, you’ll receive an invitation email to access your new account. Our portal also has a nifty app so you’ll get all our communications to you portal account right away.
Our preference is that you upload all your documents at once in one big file, but we understand that’s not feasible since you may be downloading info from different sources. It’s difficult to know when clients have sent in all their documents so please be sure to check off the task in your portal account or send us an email or text the office at 703-829-3000 once we have everything we need to get started on your returns.
Note: PDF files are the way to go when uploading documents, but if you must submit pictures please limit it to 10 or less and make sure that the information is legible. Our eyes get weary as we get closer to Tax Day.
Mail or Drop Off
If you prefer to send your documents to us, you may use US Mail (with tracking number), UPS, or FedEx and send them to the address below.
The Office of Tiffany McMillan, CPA
11325 Random Hills Road, Suite 360
Fairfax, VA 22030
If you would like to drop your documents off, we are open Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm and no appointment is necessary. To keep our fees competitive, we rely on receiving scans or copies of originals. Sending copies also allows both the client and preparer to review the same info should questions arise. If you send or drop off original documents and you want them returned to you, we must charge a $25 fee for copying and mailing. Due to limited resources, all mailing will be done after May 15th. If you prefer your documents be returned to you, please indicate this when you submit your info.
We are flexible, so you may use any of these methods or a combination of all three. Just be sure to email or text the office at 703-829-3000 once all your info has been submitted.
Step 4 – Tax Preparation – Sit back and let us go to work for you!
Once you have notified us all your documents have been submitted, we’ll review everything within 5 business days to ensure there isn’t anything missing. If we need more info or clarification, we’ll send you an email or text (depending on your specified preference). With 10-15 business days from your submission date, you’ll receive an electronic copy of your returns for review and signature.
Step 5 – Tax Return Review and Filing
Once your returns are complete, you’ll receive a portal notification that they are ready for review and signature. If you are filing a joint return, it’s important that we have email addresses for both spouses so that the return can be sent to both for signature. We take pride in knowing our clients are comfortable and confident in what they are signing is complete and accurate, so please feel free to ask questions via email or request a 30 phone or video call to go over your returns.
Once you review the returns, we’re in the home stretch. To close out the process you’ll need to:
Pay our electronic invoice. The invoice is linked to your return so you can’t miss it. It must be paid before you can view and sign the returns.
Electronically sign the returns. Don’t overlook this important step! If you are filing a joint return we receive notification that the signatures are complete once both people sign the returns.
When we receive your signed authorization forms, we will e-file your returns. Usually within 3-5 days of filing we’ll receive confirmation back from the tax agencies confirming receipt of your returns. Once the federal and all states confirmations are received, we’ll notify you via email.
That’s all folks! Cross the taxes off the list, breathe a sigh of relief, and toast to having another 365 days before we do it all over again.