When preparing for your individual tax return appointment, we recommend bringing:

A valid photo ID and your Social Security number

Copies of W-2 forms from all employers

Any 1099 forms (such as 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-R)

Form 1095-A if you received health insurance through the marketplace

Mortgage interest statements (Form 1098)

Property tax records

Documentation for any deductible expenses (e.g. medical, education, or charitable contributions)

Prior year tax return, if you’re a new client

Having your documents organized helps us file your return accurately and promptly. If you're unsure about a form or deduction, feel free to call our Pearl City office before your appointment—we're happy to clarify.

Yes, we specialize in preparing tax returns for self-employed individuals and sole proprietors throughout Oʻahu. This includes:

Schedule C preparation for business income and expenses

General excise tax (GET) compliance and filings

Deduction support for vehicle mileage, home office, tools, and supplies

Assistance with quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid IRS penalties

We understand the local challenges faced by small service-based businesses, including local contractors, hair stylists, and independent consultants. Our team can help you stay organized year-round and make the most of your deductions—without the stress.

Most of our small business clients are local service providers operating in and around Maui, including:

Landscaping and maintenance companies

Auto repair and detailing shops

Cleaning services

Massage therapists and health professionals

Construction subcontractors and general tradespeople

We’ve served these businesses for decades, and understand the nuances of GET, bookkeeping for project-based work, and how to prepare year-end financial statements or tax filings. We also help clients keep things simple—no over-complicating your structure if a Schedule C or single-member LLC will do the job well.

Absolutely. A 1099-NEC (Nonemployee Compensation) means you were paid as an independent contractor, and the IRS expects you to report this as business income. We will:

Accurately report your gross income on Schedule C

Help you identify all allowable expenses (supplies, internet, mileage, etc.)

Ensure you calculate and report self-employment tax correctly

Determine if quarterly estimated payments are needed

If this is your first time filing as a freelancer, we’ll walk you through what it means and how to stay compliant going forward. Many local clients—such as Uber drivers, gig workers, and part-time freelancers—trust us to make the process clear and manageable.

A tax return is a legal document submitted to the IRS and Hawaiʻi state tax authorities, reporting your income and calculating any taxes owed or refunds due. A compilation, on the other hand, is a type of financial statement prepared by a CPA using data provided by the client, but without performing any verification or assurance.

Here’s when each is used:

Tax Return: Always required annually by individuals and businesses.

Compilation: May be requested by third parties like lenders or for internal business planning.

Most small businesses no longer need compilations due to changes in lender requirements and the high cost of preparation. However, if your bank or investor asks for one, we can provide it and explain what information we’ll need from you. Our 35+ years of experience means we can spot when a simpler financial statement or tax return may meet the same goal.