Client privacy notice

Why are we giving you this notice?

Federal law gives you the right to know how we collect, use, share and protect your personal information. Federal tax law (Internal Revenue Code §7216) also limits how tax preparers may use or disclose tax return information. We follow whichever rule is stricter.

What we collect

To prepare your return, we collect information such as your name, address, Social Security or taxpayer identification number, date of birth, income, employment and investment records, bank account numbers for refunds or payments, and similar information about your spouse and dependents. We get it from you, from documents you provide, and, with your authorization, from the IRS or state tax agencies.

How we use it

To prepare and file your tax returns, respond to tax notices on your behalf, bill you for our services, and meet our legal and professional obligations.

How we share it

• To prepare and file your return (for example, with the IRS, state tax agencies and our tax software and secure portal providers): we share; you can't limit this.
• As required by law, court order or professional regulation: we share; you can't limit this.
• With your financial planner, CPA, attorney or another person you name: only with your written consent; you choose.
• For our own marketing to you: we don't share.
• For other companies to market to you: we don't share.
• With affiliates: we don't share.

We never sell your information.

How we protect it

We follow a written information security plan, use an encrypted client portal for documents, require multi-factor sign-in on systems that hold client data, limit access to people who need it, and require our service providers to protect your information.

How long we keep it

We keep copies of your returns, signed e-file authorizations and our workpapers for seven years after the return is filed. That covers the periods during which the IRS and California can review a return, and lets us help with amended returns and tax notices. After that, we securely destroy them. You can ask for a copy of the records you gave us at any time.

California residents

California law gives you additional privacy protections. We don't share your information with nonaffiliated companies except as permitted by law or with your consent.

Questions?

Contact David Langhals, david@longcoursetax.com.