FAQ’s
Q: What does Financial Czar do?
A: We’re a Certified Public Accountant firm based in Darien, IL, offering personalized financial solutions such as bookkeeping, fractional CFO services, and tax preparation; all aimed at bringing clarity and peace of mind to your finances.
Q: Who can benefit from your services?
A: We serve both individuals and businesses—whether you need regular bookkeeping, high-level financial analysis, or help filing taxes, our services are tailored for your needs.
Services & Pricing
Q: What services do you offer and what’s the starting pricing?
A: We provide three main services:
- Bookkeeping: Starting at $250/month. We organize your books and generate accurate financial reports.
- Fractional or Family CFO: Starting at $150/month. Ideal for deeper insights, financial strategy, and answering lingering questions on cash flow, budgeting, or growth planning.
- Tax Preparation (Household or Business): Starting at $300. We offer efficient, stress-free filing services tailored to your needs.
Q: Are those flat fees guaranteed?
A: These are starting prices reflecting typical client needs. Exact fees depend on the complexity of your business or tax situation; a free initial inquiry lets us tailor a proposal.
Schedule & Engagement
Q: How can I get started?
A: Just fill out our contact form with your name and message. Clients typically hear back quickly. We’ll discuss your goals and determine which service fits best for you.
Q: Is a long-term contract required?
A: No long-term commitment is necessary. Many clients work with us on a flexible monthly basis or by project, depending on their needs.
Bookkeeping & CFO Details
Q: What does bookkeeping include?
A: We’ll handle bank reconciliations, transaction categorization, basic financial statements, and ensure your numbers are ready for decision-making and tax season.
Q: What exactly is a fractional CFO or Family CFO?
A: This service offers strategic financial guidance and analysis on a part-time basis. We support budgeting, forecasting, cash flow planning, and the interpretation of financial data to help inform decision-making.
Tax Services
Q: What types of tax support do you provide?
A: We prepare individual and business returns. Our services include calculations, filing, strategy advice, and ensuring you’re aware of available deductions or credits.
Q: What documents are needed before tax prep?
A: We typically ask for W-2s, 1099s, business income/expense records, bank statements, and other relevant tax documentation. We’ll clarify requirements during your onboarding call.
Onboarding & Client Experience
Q: What’s the onboarding process like?
A: Once you reach out, we’ll schedule an initial consultation to understand your needs and scope. If you choose to move forward, we’ll guide you through setting up access, sending documents securely, and setting the cadence of communication.
Q: How do we deliver work and communicate?
A: We use secure portals or email for document delivery. Communication is via email or virtual meetings as needed. Our goal is to make it seamless and clear.
Q: How often will you provide deliverables?
A: For bookkeeping: typically monthly reports. For CFO services: periodic strategic updates and financial analysis. For taxes: you receive final returns during filing season.
Security & Privacy
Q: How do you protect my financial data?
A: We use secure file-sharing tools and follow industry standards for accounting confidentiality. Your information is handled with strict privacy and care.
Q: Do I share access to accounts?
A: Yes—you grant read-only access to essential financial data (e.g. accounting software, bank statements). This access is used solely to deliver accurate services.
Location & Timing
Q: Where are you located? Do I need to visit in person?
A: Our office is located in Darien, IL. While in-person meetings are welcome, most engagements are handled remotely—thanks to digital tools that allow us to serve clients efficiently online.
Q: What is your availability?
A: We accommodate clients with flexible scheduling. During tax season, expect some constraints—but standard bookkeeping and CFO services are maintained consistently.
General & Miscellaneous
Q: What if I have multiple services (e.g., bookkeeping and taxes)?
A: We can bundle services for efficiency and better pricing. We’ll present a combined proposal based on your needs.
Q: Do you work with software I already use?
A: Yes—we integrate with popular accounting tools and bank portals. If needed, we provide guidance on compatible platforms.
Q: How do I terminate services if needed?
A: Either party can end services with reasonable notice. Final deliverables and invoices are completed upon service termination.
Quick Summary
- Bookkeeping: $250/month – Organized records and monthly financials.
- Fractional CFO: $150/month – Strategic insight and financial guidance.
- Tax Preparation: $300 per return – Hassle free filing for individuals/businesses.
Still Have Questions?
If you don’t see your question here, we’d love to help! Simply contact us through our form, and we’ll respond with personalized answers and next steps.
