Individual Tax Preparation
Accurate, well-documented tax returns for individuals with straightforward or complex financial situations. From basic W-2 filings to multi-state returns with foreign account reporting, we handle the details so you can focus on what matters.
Free. No commitment. We assess your situation in 15 minutes.
Enrolled Agent4.7 / 5.0 – 15 Google ReviewsFederally Authorized by U.S. Treasury
In short: Arc & Ledger prepares individual federal and state tax returns (Form 1040) starting at $525, with a written scope and fee set before work begins. Returns are prepared by an Enrolled Agent firm and cover multi-state filings, self-employment income, and foreign account reporting (FBAR). Most engagements run fully remotely through a secure client portal.
Tax Preparation That Accounts for Your Full Financial Picture
Filing an individual tax return should not be a source of anxiety. Whether you are a salaried employee with a single W-2 or a dual-income household with investment accounts, rental properties, and assets overseas, the process requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the rules that apply to your situation.
At Arc & Ledger, we prepare individual returns with the same rigor we apply to business engagements. Every return is reviewed for accuracy, optimized for legitimate deductions and credits, and filed electronically for faster processing. If your situation involves foreign accounts or international income, we integrate the required FBAR and FATCA filings directly into your engagement so nothing falls through the cracks.
Our process begins with an initial review of your documents through our secure Client Portal. From there, we provide a clear scope of work and fee estimate before any preparation begins. There are no surprises, and every engagement is documented from start to finish.
What Is Included
- Review of all provided documentation and records
- Preparation and e-filing of federal return (Form 1040)
- State return preparation (per state)
- Optimization of deductions and credits
- FBAR and FATCA filings when applicable
- Copy of completed returns via secure Client Portal
- Post-filing support for IRS or state correspondence
Who Needs Individual Tax Preparation?
Anyone who earns income in the United States needs to file a federal tax return. This includes W-2 employees, freelancers and independent contractors, investors with capital gains or rental income, and U.S. citizens or residents with financial accounts abroad.
W-2 Employees
Salaried professionals who need an accurate return prepared with attention to available deductions, credits, and multi-state filing requirements. If you have changed jobs, relocated, or received equity compensation during the year, your return may be more complex than a standard filing.
Freelancers & Independent Contractors
Self-employed individuals who receive 1099 income and need to properly account for business expenses, estimated tax payments, and self-employment tax. We help you understand your obligations and ensure your return reflects the full picture of your freelance income.
Investors & High-Income Earners
Individuals with capital gains, dividend income, stock options, RSUs, or rental properties. Complex investment portfolios require careful cost basis calculations and proper reporting on Schedule D and related forms.
Expats & Dual-Status Taxpayers
U.S. citizens living abroad, green card holders, and individuals with financial ties to multiple countries. We handle the foreign earned income exclusion, foreign tax credits, and the full suite of international reporting forms including FBAR and FATCA.
How Much Does Individual Tax Preparation Cost?
Individual tax preparation at Arc & Ledger starts at $525 for a basic Form 1040 with W-2 income and standard deductions. Returns involving foreign accounts, rental income, investments, or stock options start at $650 to $750 depending on complexity. Final fees are confirmed after an initial review of your documents.
| Service | Starting At | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Individual Return (Form 1040) | $525 | W-2 employees with standard deductions |
| Freelancer / Self-Employed (Schedule C) | $850 | Includes Schedule C with business expenses |
| Individual with Foreign Accounts (FBAR/FATCA) | $750 | Includes FBAR (up to 5 accounts) and Form 8938 |
| Individual with Rental Income | $700 | Includes Schedule E; additional properties may increase fee |
| Individual with Investment/Capital Gains | $650 | Includes Schedule D; complex cost basis priced higher |
| Individual with Stock Options/RSUs | $700 | Equity compensation reporting across multiple events |
| Married Filing Jointly | $600 | Varies based on combined complexity of both spouses |
| Non-Resident Alien Return (Form 1040-NR) | $595 | For non-residents with U.S. source income |
| Additional State Return | $125 | Per state, in addition to federal return fee |
| Amended Return (Form 1040-X) | From $350 | $350 minor correction / $650 full re-prep (+$175/state) |
| Prior Year Returns | $600/year | Per year, plus any additional forms required |
Foreign Account Reporting: FBAR & FATCA
If you hold financial accounts outside the United States, you may have reporting obligations beyond your standard tax return. The penalties for non-compliance are severe, but the filing requirements are manageable when handled by a firm that understands the rules.
FBAR (FinCEN 114)
Required when the aggregate value of all foreign financial accounts exceeds $10,000 at any point during the year. This includes bank accounts, brokerage accounts, mutual funds, and certain retirement accounts held outside the U.S.
Starting at $225 (up to 5 accounts)
FATCA (Form 8938)
Filed with your tax return when specified foreign financial assets exceed the reporting threshold. The thresholds vary based on filing status and whether you live in the U.S. or abroad. This form covers a broader range of assets than the FBAR.
Starting at $295
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this service area.
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Learn MoreReady to File with Confidence?
Submit your information and we will provide a clear scope and fee estimate based on your specific tax situation.
“This is the third consecutive year I've filed taxes with Burak, and it has always been an amazing experience and relief.”– Francesco F., Google Review
Both reach the same Enrolled Agent review. After either one, you'll receive a secure Client Portal invitation to upload your documents.