FAQs
Explore our services designed to help you Keep More of What You Earn!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I get a virtual Office Address?
First of all, it will help you to save money; invest your capital into your business instead of renting or buying a physical office space, paying bills, and getting office supplies. Secondly, the virtual office will give you some privacy; you do not need to share your home address with your customers. When it comes to email marketing campaigns, the virtual address will help you to fulfill CRM needs. Last but not least, a virtual address will boost your credibility and build a strong professional impression. To get the best out of your virtual office address, contact us to get more information.
Why do I need a tax residency certificate?
This certificate refers to a document proving a taxpayer’s registered address or location of residence for tax purposes. U.S. treaty partners require the certificate to collect income tax treaty benefits and/or specific additional tax benefits in the foreign nations with whom the United States has tax treaties.
How do I get a tax residency certificate in the US?
You need to get a Form certifying you are a resident of the United States for purposes of the income tax laws. To do so, first, fill out Form 8802 which is also known as Application for United States Residency Certification, and send it to the IRS. Be sure to pay the user fee. Follow the Instructions for Form 8802 to avoid any problems in the process. You can contact CBSTaxPro experts for assistance anytime.
What to do if IRS sends you a letter?
The first thing is not to worry much. Each year, thousands of taxpayers receive mail from the IRS for various reasons. Read the letter carefully; not every IRS letter is bad news. The IRS also sends letters for reasons such as ID verification, additional information, or changes in your return. Do not reply to the letter unless you are instructed to do so. Act promptly if a deadline is mentioned in the letter. Contact your IRS agent if you need more information.
What is Form 1040 used for?
US Taxpayers use Form 1040 to file their income tax returns each year. The form must be filled out with personal information, income, and deductions, and submitted to the IRS before tax deadlines.
How to get an employer identification number (EIN)?
Anyone who has a business with one or more employees needs to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) mainly for tax purposes. To apply for an EIN, you need to file IRS Form SS-4 which is also known as the Application for Employer Identification Number. The filling might be done by mail, fax, or online.
Can I use EIN as Social Security Number?
Yes, anyone with a valid EIN can use this number as a Social Security Number in some cases such as filing W9 Form, applying for a credit card, or opening a bank account.
Where can I use my ITIN?
Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) is a 9-digit number identifying you as a legal taxpayer in the US. ITIN can be used for multiple purposes such as getting a business loan, an interest-bearing bank account, or a mortgage. However, you should keep in mind that not many banks allow ITIN holders to benefit from these options and ask for SSNs instead.
Do I need an ITIN if I have EIN?
The IRS issues EIN to identify your business while ITIN is used to identify you as a tax-liable person in the US. If you are a sole proprietor or an owner of a single-member LLC, you can use your ITIN in IRS forms for your business. In other cases, you must get an EIN to file your taxes. We advise you to get an EIN even though you do not have to get one to separate your personal and business tax dealings.
About Comprehensive Business Services
What is Comprehensive Business Services?
Comprehensive Business Services is a full-service accounting and tax firm dedicated to helping individuals, families, and businesses Keep More of What You Earn. With offices in Delaware and Pennsylvania, CBS provides year-round tax preparation, planning, and financial management services designed to reduce your tax burden, simplify compliance, and build long-term financial stability.
Learn more about Comprehensive Business Services
Who is behind Comprehensive Business Services?
CBS is led by Rob Brand, an Enrolled Agent (EA), a credential granted by the IRS that authorizes him to represent taxpayers in all matters. With more than 30 years of business management experience, Rob and his team deliver accurate, confidential, and personalized tax guidance built on trust and professionalism.
What does “Comprehensive Business Services” mean?
The name reflects our approach: a one-stop solution for tax returns, bookkeeping, business formation, CFO advisory, and financial strategy. Whether you need a single service or full-scale support, CBS tailors every engagement to your specific goals.
What types of clients does CBS serve?
We serve individuals, small businesses, corporations, partnerships and non-profits nationwide. From personal tax filings to complex corporate planning, we adapt to meet each client’s financial needs.
What is an Enrolled Agent, and how is it different from a CPA?
Enrolled Agent (EA) status is the highest credential awarded by the IRS and is a federal license, as opposed to CPAs and attorneys who are state-licensed. The credential grants unlimited practice rights, allowing EAs to represent taxpayers on any tax matter before any IRS office and has unrestricted authority to represent clients in audits, appeals, and collections. Unlike most preparers, EAs are federally credentialed tax experts with nationwide practice rights.
Learn more about EA Representation
Why do clients choose Comprehensive Business Services?
CBS’s “No Room for Surprises” promise means proactive planning, transparent communication, and accurate filings every time. Clients trust us for our integrity, long-term strategy, and commitment to helping them keep more of what they earn.
Tax Preparation & Filing
What services are included in CBS’s Tax Preparation program?
CBS handles every aspect of federal, state, and local tax preparation, including individual and business returns, tax relief and resolution, first-time abatement and penalty assistance, Offer in Compromise filings, and FBAR/FATCA compliance. Our process includes a one-on-one meeting, document review, and a five-step quality control system for accuracy.
Learn more about Tax Preparation
________________________________________
What is tax relief, and when might I need it?
Tax relief services help you resolve outstanding tax issues, reduce penalties, or set up manageable payment plans with the IRS. CBS reviews your situation to identify relief options such as penalty abatement, installment agreements, or offers in compromise.
________________________________________
Can CBS represent me if I receive an IRS notice or audit?
Yes. As Enrolled Agents, our professionals have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before all IRS offices. If you receive a letter from the IRS, we’ll guide you through the next steps calmly and efficiently.
Read our IRS Guidance FAQ
Schedule a confidential consultation
________________________________________
How do I securely share my tax documents?
After scheduling with CBS, you’ll receive a secure TaxDome portal invitation. Log in to upload tax forms, receipts, and financial files safely using encrypted storage.
________________________________________
How long does it take to prepare a return?
The time needed to complete a tax return depends on its complexity and the availability of your financial documents. A CBS professional will discuss your expected timeline during your consultation.
Tax Strategy & Planning
What’s the difference between tax preparation and tax planning?
Tax preparation ensures you file correctly; tax planning ensures you’re never caught off guard. CBS proactively identifies tax-saving opportunities—such as optimal entity structure, income timing, retirement contributions, and strategic deductions—to help minimize liabilities before they occur.
________________________________________
How can strategic tax planning help me save money?
Smart planning helps you control when and how you pay taxes. By analyzing your income, investments, and business structure, CBS creates strategies that defer or reduce taxes, align deductions with your goals, and optimize cash flow throughout the year.
________________________________________
When should I start tax planning?
The best time is before tax season begins. CBS monitors tax-law changes year-round, ensuring you’re positioned to take advantage of new credits, deductions, and regulatory updates.
________________________________________
What are common tax strategies for small businesses?
CBS helps business owners choose the right entity, manage payroll efficiently, plan for retirement, and structure deductible expenses. Each strategy is customized to your industry and growth stage.
Startups & Entity Formation
How does CBS help new businesses get started?
From formation to first filing, CBS ensures your business is structured for long-term success. Services include business registration, EIN application, accounting setup, and ongoing tax consulting—all designed to keep you compliant from day one.
________________________________________
Can CBS help me with tax ID numbers and registration (EIN, ITIN, and residency certificates)?
Yes. CBS assists with business and personal tax identification needs, including EIN registration for new companies, ITIN applications for individuals, and residency certificates for non-U.S. taxpayers who qualify for treaty benefits.
Contact Comprehensive Business Services
E-Commerce & Online Sellers
How does CBS support e-commerce businesses?
CBS helps online sellers—on Amazon, eBay, AliExpress, Shopify, and beyond—launch and manage profitable businesses. We handle LLC formation, state registrations, bookkeeping, and tax compliance, freeing you to focus on sales and growth.
Learn about E-Commerce Services
________________________________________
Do I need to collect sales tax for online sales?
Sales-tax rules vary by state and marketplace. CBS helps you understand your obligations, register correctly, and stay compliant across multiple platforms.
________________________________________
What deductions are available to online sellers?
Common deductions may include shipping costs, software fees, marketing, and inventory expenses. CBS evaluates your situation to identify legitimate deductions and ensure compliance.
CFO & Business Advisory Services
What does a part-time CFO do for my company?
A fractional CFO helps you understand your numbers, plan budgets, forecast cash flow, and make smarter financial decisions—all without the cost of a full-time executive. CBS delivers the same strategic insight at a flexible scale.
________________________________________
How does CBS’s CFO service differ from regular bookkeeping?
Bookkeeping focuses on recording transactions, while CBS’s CFO service provides higher-level insight—budgeting, cash flow forecasting, and financial strategy—to help you plan and grow with confidence.
________________________________________
Is CFO service right for small businesses?
Yes. Many growing businesses can’t justify a full-time CFO but still need expert guidance. CBS provides financial oversight, budgeting, and performance tracking to help you stay profitable.
IRS Problems & Tax Relief
What should I do if I receive a letter from the IRS?
Stay calm. Read the letter carefully and act promptly if there’s a deadline. Comprehensive Business Services can help you interpret and respond appropriately—most IRS notices can be resolved quickly with professional guidance.
Read our IRS Guidance FAQ
Book a confidential consultation
________________________________________
Can CBS help if I owe back taxes or face penalties?
Yes. CBS provides Tax Relief and Resolution services, including First-Time Abatement and Offer in Compromise assistance, to help reduce or settle outstanding liabilities.
Learning & Resources
Where can I find current tax tips and articles?
CBS updates its Tax Tips Library weekly with new insights on deductions, planning, retirement, audits, and new legislation.
________________________________________
Do you share videos or newsletters?
Yes. Visit our blog for educational videos, current newsletters, and financial insights from the CBS team.
Contact & Connect
How can I contact Comprehensive Business Services?
Reach us by phone at (302) 994-2000 or email info@cbstaxpro.com.
Offices:
Delaware:
112 Capitol Trail, Newark DE 19711
Pennsylvania:
535 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills, PA 19342.
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm ET.
Use our Contact Form
________________________________________
What is the first step to becoming a CBS client?
The first step is to schedule a complimentary consultation. A CBS representative will meet with you to review your needs and explain the next steps for tax preparation or planning.
________________________________________
Does CBS work with clients outside of Delaware and Pennsylvania?
CBS is located in Newark, Delaware, and Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, and serves clients across the country.
________________________________________
Can I meet with CBS online or do I need to visit the office?
CBS offers in-person appointments at its Delaware office, as well as virtual appointments world-wide through Teams or Zoom. You may also communicate with your tax professional and share documents through the secure online client portal.
________________________________________
What information or materials will I need to get started?
During your initial consultation, a CBS professional will discuss your situation and outline what financial records or documents are needed. For tax preparation, CBS will ensure all required statements are available before filing begins.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
________________________________________
Ready to get started?
Comprehensive Business Services is here to make taxes simple, strategic, and stress-free.
Book Your Complimentary Consultation
CLICK BELOW TO DOWNLOAD OUR GLOSSARY OF TERMS
No Room For Surprises
Surprises are fun, but fines and penalties are not. With CBS Tax Pro, you’ll avoid any unintentional fees or fines associated with unpaid bills and taxes. Planning your budget, managing your spending, and investing in your business goals will be much easier.
