Frequently Asked Questions

Our onboarding process is designed to make bookkeeping and accounting easy from the start. We'll help organize your financial records, answer your questions, and build a system that keeps your business organized, tax-ready, and prepared for growth.

Getting Started

How do I know if BATS is the right fit for my business?

If you're self-employed or run a small service business, contractors, trades, consultants, wellness professionals, insurance agents, and you're tired of guessing where your money goes, you're probably a good fit. Book 15 Minutes With Paul to find out, no obligation.

What do I actually get out of a call with Paul?

A straight, honest assessment of your books, tax returns, and business structure, including anywhere you may be leaving money on the table or set up inefficiently. No obligation to move forward afterward.

What happens after the call?

You get a clear plan: what needs fixing, what it costs, and what ongoing monthly support looks like, no pressure, no hidden surprises.

What does getting started look like?

Pretty simple. It starts with a chance to Book 15 Minutes With Paul where we learn about your business and answer any questions you have. If we're a good fit and decide to work together, we'll get you onboarded we'll need access to your accounts and some basic info, and we walk you through all of it. Most new clients are up and running within two to three weeks.

Do I have to come to your office? Do we ever meet in person?

Most of what we do is online, documents, signatures, and payments all run through TaxDome, accessible anytime, including years later when a lender asks. If you'd rather meet face-to-face, Paul sees clients in Holiday by appointment; the process and price are the same either way.

What do I need to have ready before we start?

Not much, a recent tax return, bank statements, and basic business information get you started. If your records are messy, that's fine; we'll guide you through cleaning them up.

Am I locked into a long-term contract?

No. We work on a month-to-month basis. There is a one-time onboarding fee when you start that covers the work it takes to get everything set up properly but after that, no long-term commitment hanging over your head. We don't need to lock you in. In our experience, once clients start working with us and see the difference, they never want to leave.

How fast can you get me started?

Usually within one to two weeks of signing on. The faster we can get the onboarding questionnaire filled out and the documents we need from you, the faster we can get everything set up and working. We move as quickly as you do. If you've got a deadline coming up a tax due date, a new business launch, whatever it is just let us know upfront and we'll do everything we can to work around it.

What's the first step?

Easy. Hit the Book 15 Minutes With Paul button at the top of the page and schedule your call. We'll get to know your business, answer your questions, and see if we're the right fit for each other. No pressure. No obligation. Just a straight conversation with people who genuinely want to see your business win. We look forward to hearing from you.

What bookkeeping software do you use?

We primarily work in Xero for its reliability and real-time access to your financials, but we can also work in QuickBooks Online. The priority is accurate, up-to-date books, not forcing a switch.

Bookkeeping

What exactly is bookkeeping and why do I need it?

Bookkeeping is the ongoing record of every dollar in and out of your business, the foundation you need to know if you can afford new equipment, qualify for a loan, or owe on taxes. Without accurate, up-to-date books, you're planning by guesswork, and tax returns built on bad bookkeeping come out wrong too.

Will I be able to see my financials anytime I want?

Yes. You get direct access to your bookkeeping platform, so your profit and loss and balance sheet are available anytime from your phone or computer. No waiting, no chasing anyone down.

Should I budget for bookkeeping and accounting services?

Yes. Treat it as a fixed monthly expense, like rent or insurance, rather than something you scramble for at tax time. It pays for itself through tax savings, IRS-compliant records, and decisions made with real numbers instead of guesswork.

What's the difference between bookkeeping and accounting?

Bookkeeping is the day-to-day recording of every transaction; accounting turns that data into financial statements, tax planning, and business decisions. We also use AI to layer in insights like year-over-year performance and client profitability, on top of the bookkeeping itself.

My books are a mess. Can you still help me?

Yes. We regularly take on new clients with unreconciled accounts, missing records, or years of unfiled returns. Nothing surprises us. We review your books first, then give you a clear plan and upfront cost to get you caught up.

How often will my books be updated?

Every month, on a consistent schedule, so your financials are always current for a loan, mortgage, or equipment financing request, and so anything unusual, like an unauthorized charge, gets caught early rather than surfacing months later.

Can good bookkeeping actually save me money?

Yes. Poor or missing bookkeeping is the most common reason business owners overpay taxes. Undocumented deductions and expenses simply don't make it onto the return. In many cases, the tax savings from clean books more than cover the cost of keeping them.

Do I still need bookkeeping if I only have one bank account and a few expenses?

Yes, and a simple setup is a genuine advantage. Your accounting fees scale with the number of accounts and transactions we process, so fewer accounts generally means lower fees and less exposure to fraud. We'll keep your books clean and your deductions captured either way.

Can you take over from my current bookkeeper?

Yes. Switching bookkeepers or accountants is common, and we handle the transition for clients throughout Tampa Bay, Trinity, Palm Harbor, and New Port Richey included. We start with a clear, judgment-free review of your books, then coordinate a professional handoff so the changeover is smooth for you and your previous accountant.

Tax Services

A note before we dive in.

Paul Belshaw has prepared tax returns since 1978, starting with Rutgers' VITA program and shaped by mentors from major national firms. Two lessons stuck: treat every return as if it were his own, and know which questions to ask before the client even thinks to raise them. That's still the standard at BATS.

Can you help me with back taxes or unfiled returns?

Yes. The IRS is more lenient with people who come forward voluntarily than those it has to chase, so acting sooner limits penalties and interest. We assess what's owed and what needs filing, then build a plan to get you compliant. Book 15 Minutes With Paul.

What tax services do you offer?

We handle the full range of tax needs, not just annual filing:

Individual and business tax preparation (S-corps, LLCs, sole proprietors)
Year-round tax planning
Estimated tax payments
Business entity structuring
IRS and state tax notice resolution
Back taxes and unfiled returns
Audit support

Whether you're just starting out or well established, we scale to fit.

Should my books match my tax return?

Yes, your tax return should be built directly from your books, which are built from your source documents (bank statements, receipts, invoices). If the numbers don't match, that's a red flag, whether it's an IRS inquiry, a loan application, or a business sale where everything gets scrutinized.

What's the difference between tax preparation and tax planning?

Tax preparation reports what already happened on your return; tax planning looks ahead throughout the year, covering estimated payments, business structure, and timing of purchases to help reduce what you owe. Preparation tells you the number; planning helps change it.

How do I know if I'm paying too much in taxes?

Common signs: you're hit with a big estimated-tax bill every April, you're still a sole proprietor with no S-corp conversation ever raised, you're not tracking every legitimate deduction, or no one reviews your numbers with you mid-year. It's fixable with clean books, the right business structure, and regular check-ins throughout the year.

What is an S-corp and should I be one?

An S corp is a tax election, not a new entity. Your LLC stays as is; it just changes how your profit is taxed. Structured correctly, it lets you split income into a salary, which is subject to payroll tax, and distributions, which generally aren't subject to self employment tax. At higher profit levels, this can meaningfully reduce self employment tax. It's worth running the numbers with us to see if the savings outweigh the added payroll and filing costs, and since the election has a deadline each year, don't wait until tax season to ask.

What if I get audited?

Well organized books and an accurate return make an audit easier to manage; missing records or mismatched numbers can make it much more difficult. We handle the process alongside you by organizing documentation, managing communication, and representing your interests every step of the way.

What records do I need to keep for tax purposes?

Keep both day-to-day records and origination documents:

Bank and credit card statements, receipts, invoices, payroll records, mileage logs, contracts, and prior returns
EIN letter, S-corp acceptance letter, payroll and sales tax account numbers, state business license and corporate records

Keep everything for at least seven years — origination documents especially, since they're easy to forget until you need them. Most of this can be organized digitally rather than in paper form.

Do you handle both personal and business taxes?

Yes, and for small business owners, especially S corp shareholders, that's important, since business decisions like salary versus distributions directly affect your personal return. Handling both together lets us balance reasonable compensation, distributions, and deductions like the QBI deduction rather than working from an incomplete picture.

How do estimated tax payments work?

Estimated payments let you pay taxes as you earn throughout the year instead of one large bill in April, paid quarterly. The Safe Harbor Rule can protect you from underpayment penalties if you meet certain payment requirements based on your prior year's tax liability or current year tax. The exact requirements depend on your circumstances, so it's worth confirming your number with us rather than guessing. Accurate, current bookkeeping is what makes calculating the right payment possible in the first place.

Advisory and Growth

What is advisory and how is it different from just doing my taxes and books?

Advisory means we're actively engaged with your business year round, reviewing your structure, how you pay yourself, retirement planning, and growth opportunities, instead of only appearing when a filing is due. It's proactive strategy on top of the compliance work, not a replacement for it.

What is the three-legged stool and why does it matter for my business?

Every successful business runs on three legs. Take one away and the whole thing tips over.

Leg one is operations. This is what you do your craft, your service, your product. The thing you're good at that made you start the business in the first place. Most small business owners have this one covered. It's the other two that trip them up.

Leg two is marketing. How do people find you? How do you tell your story? How do you stand out from every other contractor, consultant, or service provider in your market? Without a steady flow of the right clients coming in the door even the best operation in the world struggles.

Leg three is the back office. This is your financial foundation your bookkeeping, your accounting, your taxes, your business structure, your systems, your processes. It's the engine running behind everything else. When it's working right you barely notice it. When it's broken everything suffers.

And here's something we've seen proven out over decades of working with small business owners systems run the business and people run the systems. The most successful businesses aren't just good at what they do. They're built on solid systems that

Can you help me make a plan to grow my business?

Yes. We start with your one, three, and five year goals, then build a real plan from your numbers, pricing, expenses, profit margins, cash flow, and business structure, with benchmarks to track whether you're on pace. Growth works better by design than by accident.

What is Main Street tax strategy and how can it benefit me?

Main Street tax strategy, the approach popularized by advisor Mark J. Kohler, uses legal, legitimate tax provisions that big corporations and wealthy individuals have long used, applied to everyday small business owners: proper entity structure, legitimate business expenses, hiring family members, retirement plans, and more. We build this into a year round advisory relationship rather than a once a year conversation, since most of these strategies don't come up in a standard tax appointment.

Can I put my children on payroll and is it legal?

Yes, the IRS allows it, provided the work is real and age appropriate, and the wage is reasonable for the work performed. It's a deductible business expense for you, and depending on the child's age and earnings, they may owe little to no tax on it. That income can also fund a Roth IRA or education expenses. Get the paperwork right, since this isn't a strategy to handle informally.

What does living your life through your business mean and how does it work?

It means legally running expenses with a genuine business purpose, such as cell phone, vehicle use, home office, continuing education, business meals, and travel, through your business instead of paying for them personally, as long as they're properly documented and reasonable. Done right, this shifts spending from after tax to pre tax dollars. It's about knowing the rules, not pushing boundaries.

How can I turn personal expenses into legitimate business deductions?

Common deductible expenses include vehicle use, a home office (dedicated and regular use), cell phone/internet business use percentage, health insurance premiums (structure dependent), continuing education, business meals, and travel. Every deduction needs to be legitimate, reasonable, and documented. Clean records and a clear business purpose are what make it hold up.

What retirement plan options are available to small business owners?

Main options: SEP IRA (simple to set up, tax-deductible contributions based on a percentage of net income), Solo 401(k) (higher limits, employer and employee contributions, Roth option, best for owners with no employees besides a spouse), SIMPLE IRA (good for businesses with employees, easier to administer than a full 401(k)), and Defined Benefit Plan (highest contribution potential, more administration, best for higher earners). The right fit depends on your income, structure, and whether you have employees. We help you choose and set it up correctly.

How do I know when my business is ready for advisory services?

You don't need to be an established business. Signs you're ready include not knowing where your money is going, tax season feeling painful every year, considering hiring or making a major purchase, wanting to pay yourself more, or nobody ever having raised an S corp or retirement strategy with you. If any of that sounds familiar, it's time.

Will you proactively bring new ideas to help my business?

Yes, we see it as an obligation, not an extra. When we spot something that could help, we explain it clearly and let you decide. There's no pressure to act on it.

What is reasonable compensation and why does it matter?

As an S corp owner, you're both employee and shareholder. The IRS requires a reasonable salary for your work, since too low can raise compliance concerns and too high may mean paying more payroll taxes than necessary. Salary, distributions, and the QBI deduction all interact, so the right balance can change as your income does. We review it annually for every S corp client.

What is S-corp basis and why does it matter?

Your basis is your running financial stake in the company. It goes up with contributions and profits and down with losses and distributions. Take out more than your basis, and the excess is generally taxed as a capital gain instead of being tax free. We track basis annually for every S corp client using Form 7203, since it's a detail many firms skip.

What is a board of advisors and does my small business need one?

Yes, and it's often overlooked. A board of advisors is a small group, typically three to five people, from other business owners to trusted mentors, who meet periodically to guide your decisions, with no legal authority like a board of directors would have. Done right, with real, documented meetings, related expenses can also be a legitimate deductible business expense.

AI &Accounting

What is advisory and how is it different from just doing my taxes and books?

No. And here’s why.

AI can process information, spot patterns, and handle repetitive tasks quickly. But it can’t replace the judgment, experience, and personal relationship of an accountant who truly understands your business.

A calculator didn’t replace accountants. Tax software didn’t either. AI won’t replace them. It makes great accountants even better.

At BATS, we use AI as a tool, not a replacement. It helps us handle the heavy lifting so we can focus on what matters most: strategic recommendations, tax planning, and personalized financial guidance.

Our goal is simple: help you make smarter decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and build a stronger, more profitable business.

AI can process your numbers. But it can’t sit across the table, understand your goals, or call you in October to discuss year end tax planning before it’s too late.

How is Belshaw Accounting using artificial intelligence to serve clients better?

At Belshaw Accounting we believe in staying ahead of the curve not just for ourselves but for our clients. Artificial intelligence is one of the most powerful tools to come along in our industry in decades and we're using it every day to deliver better, faster, and smarter service.

Here's what that looks like in practice. AI helps us analyze your financial data more deeply and more quickly than ever before. We can spot trends, identify opportunities, and flag potential problems faster than traditional methods allowed. Things like comparing your performance month over month, year over year, identifying which areas of your business are thriving and which ones need attention all of it becomes faster and more precise with AI in the toolbox.

AI also helps us stay current. Tax laws change constantly. New strategies emerge. New IRS guidance gets issued. AI helps us monitor those changes in real time so we're always working with the most current information available and passing that knowledge directly to you.

But here's what we want you to know. Every AI tool we use at Belshaw Accounting is a paid, professional grade platform. We don't use free accounts. We don't cut corners on security. Your financial information is sensitive and we treat it that way. Our systems are built around protecting your data with the same seriousness we bring to protecting your money.

AI makes us better. But you're always working with experienced humans who are accountable to you not an algorithm.

Can I just use ChatGPT or AI to do my own taxes and bookkeeping?

You can, but general AI doesn't know your business structure, state obligations, or this year's tax law changes. And the IRS won't accept "the AI told me so" if something goes wrong. We use professional grade AI tools ourselves, paired with experienced professionals who catch what a chatbot alone can miss.

How do I know my financial information is safe with AI involved?

This is a question we take very seriously and we're glad you asked it.

Your financial information is among the most sensitive data you have. Tax returns, bank statements, business financials, Social Security numbers this is information that needs to be protected with the highest level of security available. And at Belshaw Accounting we treat it exactly that way.

Here's our commitment to you. We only use professional grade paid platforms and tools. No free accounts. No shortcuts. Every piece of software we use to serve our clients including any AI assisted tools meets rigorous security and privacy standards. We don't cut corners when it comes to protecting your data. Period.

We also follow strict data handling practices. Your information is never shared, never sold, and never used for any purpose other than serving you. The trust you place in us when you hand over your financial documents is something we take personally and we guard it accordingly.

The bottom line is this. AI in the right hands with the right tools and the right protocols is safe. At Belshaw Accounting you're always in the right hands.

What can AI do and what still requires a human?

AI is excellent at processing financial data, spotting trends, automating bookkeeping tasks, analyzing numbers, and staying current with tax information. At Belshaw Accounting, Tax & Advisory Services, we use AI to work faster and serve our small business clients more efficiently.

But AI can't replace human judgment, experience, and trusted financial advice.

It can't sit down with a business owner, understand their goals, family, industry, and history, or ask the right questions when something doesn't look right. It can't build relationships, provide accountability, or offer personalized guidance for complex tax and financial decisions.

AI makes us faster and sharper. Experience makes our advice personal.

For small business owners in Palm Harbor, Clearwater, Tampa Bay, and throughout Florida, Belshaw Accounting combines modern AI tools with experienced human guidance to help you make informed decisions, improve your tax strategy, and build a stronger business. Technology supports our work. People remain at the heart of it.

Pricing and Billing

What are your monthly bookkeeping tiers and pricing?

Belshaw Accounting & Tax Services offers four monthly bookkeeping plans based on annual business revenue:

Owner-Operator: Under $200K — from $495/month
Growth: $200K–$500K — from $695/month
Established: $500K–$1M — from $995/month
Scaling: Over $1M — Custom Quote

All plans include monthly account reconciliation, financial statements, bookkeeping advisory support, secure TaxDome access, a dedicated point of contact, and a one-business-day response time.

Business tax returns and catch-up bookkeeping are quoted separately based on your specific needs.

Serving small businesses with professional bookkeeping, accounting, and tax support.

How do I know which tier is right for my business?

Your tier is based primarily on annual revenue, with your exact quote also shaped by account and transaction volume and any catch up work needed. Book a Books & Return Review and we'll look at your actual books alongside your return, since revenue alone doesn't always tell the full complexity story. You'll get one firm number after that.

What happens if my transaction volume goes over my tier limit?

We don't penalize you for the occasional busy month. If your volume runs a little over your tier limit here and there, we'll absorb it that's just how businesses work. But if it becomes consistent, or if you add a new bank account or credit card that pushes you into the next tier, we'll have a conversation and adjust your plan accordingly. You'll never get a surprise bill we'll always talk to you first.

Does monthly bookkeeping include payroll?

No, but we set you up with Gusto at wholesale pricing, help with setup, and monitor it so it stays in sync with your books.

What software do you use?

We work in Xero for bookkeeping and TaxDome as our client portal for documents, communication, and billing. You don't need to know either platform. We handle the setup and daily use, you just connect your accounts.

How do I get started with monthly bookkeeping?

Book a Books & Return Review, and we'll review your books and return, then send an engagement letter with a firm number and get you set up in TaxDome. Most clients are up and running within a week or two, mainly paced by how quickly you send statements and account access.

What is catch-up and cleanup bookkeeping?

It's getting your books up to date and accurate when they've fallen behind or were never set up correctly, whether from doing it yourself, inheriting a mess from a prior bookkeeper, or just losing track. We bring them current and tax ready.

How is catch-up and cleanup bookkeeping different from monthly bookkeeping?

Monthly bookkeeping keeps your books current on an ongoing basis; catch-up and cleanup is a one-time project to fix books that have already fallen behind, priced separately since reconstructing history takes more work than maintaining it. Most clients move into monthly bookkeeping afterward to stay current going forward.

How do you price catch-up and cleanup work?

We don't publish a flat rate. The price depends on the number of accounts and transactions, how far back we need to go, and any added complexity from payroll, fixed assets, or loans. Reach out for a discovery call and we'll provide a straightforward quote based on your specific needs.

How far back can you go?

As far back as your records allow. The more complete your bank statements, credit card statements, and receipts are, the further back we can accurately reconstruct your books. We'll tell you upfront what's realistic and flag any gaps before starting.

How much does it cost to have Belshaw Accounting prepare my individual tax return?

Individual tax returns start at $350, with most returns ranging from $425 to $950.

Wages & Retirement: $350–$395
Itemized & Investments: $425–$550
Self Employed & Rental: $650–$950
Complex Returns: From $950

Additional states, prior year returns, and amended returns are quoted separately. You’ll receive the price in writing before work begins, and the price only changes if the scope of work changes.

Not sure which tier applies to you? Book 15 Minutes With Paul

What if I have self-employment income, rental property, or investments?

Any one of those adds a major schedule to your return, and that moves the price up meaningfully. Self-employment means a Schedule C, self-employment tax, and often depreciation or a home office. Rental property brings a Schedule E, depreciation tracking, and sometimes passive activity rules. Capital gains add a Schedule D. When several of these show up on the same return, you're looking at our higher pricing tiers. The calculator on this page will walk you through your situation and give you a realistic range.

I received a K-1 from a partnership or S corp. Does that change my personal return price?

Yes. A K-1 typically moves your return into a higher pricing tier, and factors like multiple K-1s, basis tracking, out-of-state income, or foreign accounts can move it further. Bring it up when you book your consultation and you'll get your exact price in writing before we start.

What about amended returns or IRS notices, are those extra?

Yes, those are priced separately. Amended returns depend on what changed and how far back we need to go. IRS notices range from a quick response letter to a full-blown audit, and the price reflects that range. If you've got one of either sitting on your desk, reach out and we'll take a look before we quote anything.

What does a business return cost, like an S corp or partnership?

Business return pricing is based on the number of owners and the complexity of your books, not simply the tax form you file. Factors such as multiple states, payroll, fixed assets, or ownership changes can affect the price. If we already maintain your books, your tax return will typically cost less. Book 15 Minutes With Paul for a firm quote.

I own a business and Belshaw Accounting does my bookkeeping. Does that affect what I pay for my tax return?

It does in a good way. When we're handling your books throughout the year, your records arrive at tax time clean, reconciled, and ready to go. That means less cleanup work on our end, and we pass that along in the price. Clients who bundle bookkeeping with tax prep consistently pay less for their business return than those who come to us at filing time with a year's worth of catch-up to do.

What do you mean by "tax-ready books," and what if mine aren't?

Tax ready means your accounts are reconciled, your P&L and balance sheet are complete, payroll matches your filed forms, and your depreciation schedule is up to date. If your books need cleanup, you can handle it yourself, use your own bookkeeper, or have us take care of it separately. Cleanup is quoted separately from the tax return, and getting your books current may also lower your return cost. Book 15 Minutes With Paul.

Do you prepare C-corporation returns?

We do. C-corp returns are priced based on complexity, just like any other business return reach out and we'll talk through your situation on a complimentary discovery call to give you an accurate number.

Do you charge by the hour?

No. Fees are based on the complexity of your tax return or bookkeeping needs, not the time spent. This means you know the cost upfront and can ask questions without worrying about a running clock.

When is payment due?

For tax returns, payment is due at delivery; monthly bookkeeping bills at the end of each billing cycle. We don't file until payment is received. Larger or more complex engagements may require a deposit, which we'll flag upfront if it applies.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept cash, checks, credit cards, and ACH bank transfers. However you prefer to pay, we've got you covered. If you have questions about any of these options, just ask we're happy to help.

Do you offer any credits or rewards for referring new clients?

We do and we're proud of it. If you refer someone to BATS and they become a client, we'll apply a credit to your account as our way of saying thank you. We think that's the right way to do business. Our best clients have always come from people who already trust us, and we never take that for granted. Ask us about our referral credit the next time we talk we're happy to spell out the details

Communication and Support

How do I communicate with BATS once I'm a client?

Talk to real people, get real answers, and get results. Six ways to reach us:

TaxDome — messages, documents, billing, and status updates
Zoom — virtual meetings and screen-shares
Phone (727) 916-7410 — live answer during business hours
Online scheduling at belshawaccounting.com — book anytime
Text (727) 201-0968 — urgent, non-sensitive quick questions only
In person by appointment at our Holiday location

What is TaxDome and why does BATS use it?

TaxDome is our secure client portal where you can manage your BATS account in one place. You can send messages, upload documents, sign forms electronically, make payments, and access your records.

We use TaxDome to keep your documents, communication, and client workflow organized and secure, while making it easy for you to stay connected with our team.

Everything you need, securely organized in one place.

How quickly will I hear back from you?

We respond to TaxDome messages within one business day, often sooner. For urgent matters, you can call (727) 916 7410 during business hours or text (727) 201 0968 for brief, non sensitive questions.

At BATS, we believe communication is the foundation of great service. If you have a question or concern, don't hesitate to reach out. Talk to real people, get real answers, and get positive results.

What happens if I send sensitive documents by email or text by mistake?

Don't panic. If you accidentally send sensitive information by email or text, please call us at (727) 916 7410 or contact us through TaxDome so we can address it promptly.

For your protection, we recommend using TaxDome to send tax returns, Social Security numbers, bank statements, and other sensitive financial documents. It provides a secure way to share information with our team.

If you're unsure how to send a document securely, just ask us. We're here to help keep your financial information protected.

What if I have an urgent question or need someone right away?

If you have an urgent tax or accounting question, BATS offers several ways to reach us:

Call: (727) 916 7410 during business hours for live assistance
Text: (727) 201 0968 for brief, non sensitive questions. Please do not send tax or financial information by text.
TaxDome: Send a secure message through your client portal for account related matters
Online: Visit Belshaw Accounting to schedule a Zoom or in person appointment

Talk to real people, get real answers, and get positive results.

Privacy and Cybersecurity

How do you protect my personal and financial information?

We take the security of your personal and financial information seriously. BATS uses secure, professional systems and procedures to help protect the information you provide.

TaxDome: Our secure client portal for sharing documents and communicating with our team.
Secure technology: We use professional platforms and security measures designed to protect client information.
Written Information Security Program: We maintain policies and procedures for handling and protecting sensitive client data.
Controlled access: Access to client information is limited to team members who need it to perform their work.

We encourage clients to use TaxDome rather than regular email or text when sending sensitive tax and financial documents.

Your privacy and information security are important to us.

Who has access to my information at BATS?

Only authorized team members who need access to perform their work have access to your information. BATS follows a need to know approach to help protect your tax, financial, and personal information.

Access is controlled and limited to the appropriate members of our team, and client confidentiality is treated as a fundamental part of our professional responsibility.

Your information is private, protected, and handled with care.

Do you ever share my information with anyone?

Your information is treated as confidential and is only used as necessary to provide our services. BATS does not sell client information or disclose it to third parties except when authorized by you or when disclosure is required by law.

We follow professional and legal requirements for protecting client information and limit access to authorized team members who need it to perform their work.

Your privacy and confidentiality are important to us.

What happens to my data if I stop working with BATS?

Your data remains yours. If you decide to end your engagement with BATS, we can provide copies of your completed tax returns, financial statements, and other documents prepared for you, subject to applicable requirements.

After the engagement ends, your information is handled according to our Written Information Security Program and applicable legal and professional record retention requirements. Records are securely disposed of when the required retention period ends.

We remain committed to protecting your information from the beginning of our relationship through the end of your engagement.

Common Questions

Are you taking new clients?

Yes. Belshaw Accounting & Tax Services is accepting new clients. We begin with a complimentary discovery call to learn about your business, understand your accounting and tax needs, and determine whether our services are a good fit.

If we're a match, we'll outline the next steps and get started. We focus on providing personalized service and quality support to every client we work with.

Book 15 Minutes With Paul

Can you work with my existing bookkeeper?

Yes, we do this often. We handle tax preparation, planning, and advisory work, while your bookkeeper keeps the day to day records. Clean books on their end make our work sharper and faster on ours.

Do you work with clients outside of Florida?

Yes. Belshaw Accounting works with clients throughout the United States and internationally. While our roots are in the Greater Tampa Bay Area, our virtual service model allows us to work with clients regardless of location.

BATS has physical locations in Holiday, Florida; Delray Beach, Florida; New Jersey; and Belo Horizonte, Brazil, while serving clients across the country and beyond.

Wherever you are, our virtual team can help you with your accounting, bookkeeping, and tax needs.

What makes BATS different from other accounting firms?

Full service under one roof: bookkeeping, tax preparation, tax planning, and advisory, with proactive, year round communication instead of a once a year filing relationship. Decades of combined experience, with every return handled with the same care as our own.

Can you work with my attorney or financial advisor?

Yes, and we encourage it. We regularly coordinate with attorneys on business formation, contracts, and estate planning, as well as financial advisors on retirement planning and the tax implications of investment decisions. Our role is to make sure the accounting and tax side fits with the rest of your professional team.

Can I get a second opinion from BATS on my current tax situation, bookkeeping, or accounting?

Yes. We review your bookkeeping, accounting, and tax returns together since they should tell one consistent story and give you an honest assessment either way. If your current setup is solid, we'll tell you that directly rather than manufacture a reason to switch.

How do I know I can trust BATS with my business?

Trust is built on track record and consistency: decades of combined experience, honest communication even when it's not what you want to hear, and year-round availability rather than disappearing after tax season. Book 15 Minutes With Paul, meet us, and ask the hard questions yourself.

How do I know I can trust BATS with my business?

We believe the best way to answer that is to let our clients speak for themselves. We’re proud of the reviews and testimonials we’ve earned over the years and encourage you to read them on Google.

Hear directly from our clients about their experience with BATS, including our communication, expertise, service, and care.

We work hard to earn our clients’ trust and continue delivering the level of service they expect.