Finance & Tax FAQs

Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions?
If your question is not answered here, please contact us online or call (951) 296-0785. We are happy to help.

Appointment Questions

How do I prepare for my initial consultation?

Bring your most recent financial statements and tax returns. If you are a business owner, also include payroll summaries, and a list of your financial concerns and goals. Also include employee census, recent major transactions, and details about your entity structure if you are interested in tax or retirement strategies.

Who are your ideal clients?

The Ray Group specializes in helping small to mid-sized businesses (generally $500k-$50M revenue), owners with significant tax obligations, entrepreneurs, and high-income professionals.

Which services do you offer besides tax accounting?

Our core offerings include business advisory & corporate planning, estate & succession planning, retirement planning, business entity structuring, and advanced tax mitigation.

Tax & Accounting

How can I reduce my business or personal tax liability?

We use proactive planning strategies including retirement plans, custom entity structuring, R&D tax credits, cost segregation, and spend management tailored to your business and personal situation.

Do you offer IRS representation?

Yes. We provide full IRS and state representation, handle correspondence and negotiations, and handle audits or tax disputes.

Which services do you offer besides tax accounting?

Our core offerings include business advisory & corporate planning, estate & succession planning, retirement planning, business entity structuring, and advanced tax mitigation.

What documents should I provide for tax preparation?

Businesses should provide details on major sales or purchases, payroll records, financial statements, and prior tax returns. For individuals, we need charitable contributions statements, property records, investment documents, and W2s/1099s.

Can you provide guidance on C Corp, LLC, and S Corp?

Yes, we can help you decide which way is best to incorporate your business. The Ray Group offer tailored guidance comparing operational advantages, tax, and legalities of different business entities for your specific goals.

Do you provide year-round tax planning?

Absolutely. Our tax mitigation services are proactive and ongoing rather than just seasonal. In fact, we schedule regular checkin-ins to adjust strategies as your business or personal situation evolves.

Retirement & Employee Benefits

Is a cash balance plan right for my business?

A cash balance plan is a type of defined benefit pension that allows much larger tax- deferred retirement contributions than a 401(k). Often ideal for owners with high income wanting to rapidly build retirement savings and lower taxable income.

How do 401(k)s and profit sharing plans work?

We create customized plans that fit your workforce and maximize owner/employee deferrals. Our team handles plan setup, compliance, and ongoing administration.

Can you compare a basic 401(k) to a cash balance plan?

Yes. We provide side-by-side analyses so you can see the differences in contribution limits, tax impacts, flexibility, and long-term benefits.

Fees & Services

How are your fees structured?

Our fees are determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the complexity and scope of your needs. For clients who use our accounting services, we provide complimentary tax planning at no additional charge. This approach ensures you receive maximum value and proactive strategies tailored to your unique business and financial situation. If you have questions about specific service pricing, please contact us for a personalized consultation.

Do you offer additional resources to clients?

Yes. Clients receive access to ongoing planning sessions, educational webinars, custom tax- saving calculators, and exclusive guides designed for business owners and high-income professionals.