Do I need an appointment?
Appointments are preferred to ensure timely service, but walk-ins may be available depending on the service.
Do you offer services in Spanish?
Yes. Our team provides services in both English and Spanish.
What documents should I bring?
Required documents vary by service. Please contact us or visit the specific service page for details.
Do you serve businesses as well as individuals?
Yes. We work with individuals, families, and small businesses.
Live Scan
Can I get Live Scan fingerprints sent to another state?
Live Scan fingerprinting is only accepted when the fingerprints are taken in the same state that is receiving the transaction. State governments do not allow Live Scan submissions across state lines. However, many states accept ink fingerprint cards for applicants located out of state. Contact your requesting agency to confirm accepted methods.
Do you offer ink fingerprinting for out-of-state requests?
Yes. If Live Scan is not accepted by the requesting state, we offer ink fingerprinting services. Your requesting agency should provide instructions on how and where to submit the ink fingerprint card.
If my fingerprints are taken on an ink card, do you mail them for me?
Applicants are responsible for mailing ink fingerprint cards to their requesting agency. However, Live Scan, Tax & Notary offers mailing and shipping services as a separate service. Please ask our staff for details during your visit.
What is a Live Scan billing number?
A billing number is a 6-digit code assigned by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) that allows an agency to pay the government processing fees directly. If your Request for Live Scan Service form includes a billing number, those fees are covered by the requesting agency. If not, the applicant is responsible for all associated fees.
Can I correct information after my Live Scan is submitted?
No. Once a Live Scan transaction has been submitted to the DOJ, information cannot be changed. If there is an error, a new Live Scan submission must be completed and all applicable fees will apply. Waiting for a rejection notice may delay your process.
If my Live Scan is rejected, can I go to another location?
You may visit any Live Scan provider for a resubmission. However, to avoid paying a new rolling fee, it is recommended to return to the original Live Scan location, especially if the rejection was due to data entry errors.
What happens if the FBI rejects my fingerprints but California accepts them?
In some cases, the FBI may reject fingerprints even if they were accepted by the California DOJ. If this happens, the applicant must be reprinted using the original ATI (Applicant Transaction Identifier). If rejected twice, the requesting agency must initiate an FBI Name Check.
Why was my Live Scan rejected?
Live Scan rejections usually occur due to poor fingerprint quality or data entry errors. Your requesting agency can obtain the reason for rejection by contacting the California DOJ directly or reviewing the rejection notice.
What if the Live Scan operator entered incorrect information?
If the error was made by the Live Scan operator, the applicant must be fingerprinted again. All fees apply; however, the rolling fee may be waived if the mistake was the operator’s responsibility.
What is the OCA number on the Live Scan form?
The OCA number (also labeled as “Your Number”) is used internally by the requesting agency. If no OCA number is provided and no instructions are given, leave this field blank. Incorrect information may cause delays or rejection.
How long are Live Scan forms kept on file?
The California Department of Justice requires Live Scan providers to retain the Request for Live Scan Service form for one year. After that period, the document is securely destroyed.
Where do I get the Live Scan Request Form?
The requesting agency must provide you with the correct Request for Live Scan Service form. Live Scan locations typically do not supply this form. Using an incorrect form may result in rejection or misdirected submissions.
Do you provide the Live Scan forms, or do I need to bring them?
Your requesting agency must provide the form. If a Live Scan location supplies a form, you should verify it with your agency to ensure it is correct for your submission.
Notary Public
What types of documents can be notarized?
Most personal, business, and legal documents can be notarized, provided they meet California notarial requirements and do not require legal advice.
Do you provide legal advice or document preparation?
No. Notary Publics are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice or prepare legal documents.
What documents should I bring?
A valid, government-issued photo ID is required for all notarizations.
Do I need an appointment for notary services?
Appointments are recommended to ensure availability, though walk-ins may be accepted depending on demand.
Can you notarize documents in Spanish?
Yes. We provide bilingual notary services in English and Spanish.
Do you offer Apostille services?
Yes. We assist with Apostille services for documents that will be used outside the United States.
ITIN
Who needs an ITIN?
An ITIN is required for individuals who must file a U.S. tax return but are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN).
Can I apply for an ITIN if I live outside the United States?
Yes. Non-resident individuals with U.S. tax filing requirements may apply for an ITIN.
What documents are required to apply for an ITIN?
The IRS requires Form W-7 and original identification documents or certified copies. As a Certified Acceptance Agent, LTN can verify documents in person without mailing originals.
Do I need to file a tax return to apply for an ITIN?
In most cases, yes. The ITIN application is usually submitted along with a federal tax return unless an IRS exception applies.
How long does it take to receive an ITIN?
Processing times vary, but most ITIN applications are processed within several weeks once submitted to the IRS.
Do ITINs expire?
Yes. ITINs may expire if not used on a federal tax return for a certain number of years. Expired ITINs must be renewed before filing.
Can an ITIN be used for employment or Social Security benefits?
No. An ITIN is for tax purposes only and does not authorize employment or eligibility for Social Security benefits.
Can I renew my ITIN before filing my tax return?
Yes. Renewing your ITIN before tax season can help prevent delays or rejected returns.
Tax Preparation
Who needs to file a tax return?
Any individual or business with income that meets federal or state filing requirements must file a tax return. This includes employees, self-employed individuals, and business owners.
Do you prepare both federal and California tax returns?
Yes. We prepare federal and California tax returns for individuals and businesses.
Do you offer tax preparation for businesses?
Yes. We prepare tax returns for LLCs, corporations, partnerships, and small businesses.
Do you help with IRS tax issues or notices?
Yes. We provide guidance and assistance with IRS-related tax matters, depending on the situation.
Is an appointment required for tax preparation services?
Appointments are recommended to ensure timely service and proper document review.
Do you offer ITIN tax filing services?
Yes. We assist with tax preparation for clients using an ITIN. ITIN application or renewal services are not included in tax preparation fees.
How much does tax preparation cost?
Tax preparation fees vary depending on the type and complexity of the return. Please contact our office for current pricing and consultation options.
Accounting
What types of businesses do you provide accounting services for?
We primarily work with small businesses, including sole proprietors, LLCs, and corporations.
Do you offer monthly bookkeeping services?
Yes. We offer ongoing monthly bookkeeping services based on the needs of your business.
Do you use accounting software?
Yes. We work with QuickBooks and Drake Accounting to manage and organize financial records.
Can you help prepare financial reports for tax filing?
Yes. We prepare financial statements such as profit and loss reports that can be used for tax preparation purposes.
Do you replace my CPA or tax preparer?
No. Our accounting services support your financial organization and reporting. Tax filing services are handled separately.
How much do accounting services cost?
Pricing depends on the scope of services required. Please contact our office for current pricing and service options.
