This page answers the most common questions we receive so you know exactly what to expect when working with our firm. Here’s our top client FAQs (frequently asked questions).
Getting Started With Anthem
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How do I get started?
To get started, you’ll request a Discovery Meeting. Before we schedule that meeting, we gather a bit of information from you so we can make the best use of everyone’s time and ensure you’re matched with the right expert.
How does a Discovery Meeting work?
Our Discovery Meeting is complimentary and designed to provide clarity before any commitment is made.
Step 1: Share background information
You’ll complete a short intake form with information about you and or your business so the meeting is focused and productive.
Step 2: We match you with the right expert
If you do not know which CPA or advisor you want to work with, we will match you with the subject matter expert best suited to your needs.
Step 3: Discovery Meeting (Meeting #1)
You’ll have a 60-minute complimentary scheduled introductory meeting, in person at one of our office locations or virtual, to:
- Discuss goals, challenges, and priorities
- Identify risks and opportunities
- Scope the services you actually need
Step 4: Custom service proposal (Meeting #2)
Our team prepares a custom service proposal and walks you through scope, pricing, and timelines.
Step 5: You decide, no pressure
You choose whether to move forward.
- No surprise bills
- No obligation
- No work begins without approval
Engagement Letters, Payments & Platforms
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Why do I need to sign an engagement letter?
Engagement letters define scope, responsibilities, pricing, and timelines. We cannot begin work without one.
What is Aiwyn?
Aiwyn is our secure platform for tax and advisory engagement letters and payments.
What is Ignition?
Ignition is used for CAAS services, including bookkeeping, payroll, and ongoing accounting.
Payments & Billing
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What payment methods do you accept?
- ACH or bank transfer (preferred)
- Credit or debit cards
Why don’t you accept checks?
We are phasing out checks because they delay processing, increase error risk, require manual handling, and do not align with IRS and state payment systems.
The IRS and many states are moving away from checks, and our firm will no longer accept check payments beginning in 2027.
“Quick Questions” & Advisory Scope
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Can I call and ask a CPA a quick question?
We do not provide unscheduled tax advice by phone. Accurate guidance requires full context and documentation.
For quick, general questions, please use:
- Our website chat bot
- The client portal for non-urgent, client-specific questions
Taxes, Extensions & Deadlines
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Do you automatically file extensions?
Yes, for existing clients.
If we do not hear from you by our internal deadline, we will automatically file an extension to protect you from late-filing penalties.
You do not need to request an extension.
An extension extends time to file, not time to pay.
Documents & Turnaround Time
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How do I upload my documents?
Documents must be uploaded through our secure portal.
You can find the link to upload:
- In your accountant’s email signature
- On our website under Client Center
Please do not email or text sensitive documents, as those methods are not secure and may delay processing.
What documents do I need to file my tax return?
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Required documents vary based on your situation. Your SafeSend tax organizer will guide you through exactly what is needed.
Common examples include:
For individuals
- W-2s and 1099s
- Interest, dividend, and investment statements
- Retirement income statements
- Mortgage interest and property tax statements
- Childcare, education, or healthcare documents
- Prior-year tax return for new clients
For business owners
- Income and expense records
- Payroll summaries
- Asset purchase or sale details
- Vendor and contractor information for 1099s
- Prior-year business tax returns
Completing the organizer fully is the best way to avoid missing information and delays.
SafeSend & Tax Organizers
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What is SafeSend?
SafeSend is the secure system we use to deliver tax organizers, questionnaires, and final tax documents.
How do I access my tax organizer?
- Open the SafeSend email
- Click the secure link
- Verify your identity
- Complete the organizer
If you need your SafeSend link resent, please contact office@anthemstrategists.com or 503-362-9152.
The organizer is required and cannot be skipped.
1099 Forms (Contractors & Vendors)
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What is a 1099?
A 1099 reports payments made to independent contractors or vendors who are not employees.
Do I need to issue 1099s?
You may need to issue a 1099 if:
- You paid a vendor $600 or more, and
- The vendor is not classified as a corporation, with some exceptions
Do you automatically prepare 1099s?
1099 preparation is not automatic for all clients.
- CAAS clients may have 1099s included depending on the package
- Tax-only clients typically have 1099s as a separate service
When are 1099s due?
January 31 is the filing and recipient deadline.
All 1099 information must be uploaded through the client portal.
Returns, Refunds & Records
Where can I find my completed tax return?
Your finalized return is delivered electronically via SafeSend.
You may download and save your return at any time. If you cannot locate it, contact the front desk for assistance.
When can I expect my refund?
Refund timing is controlled by the IRS and state agencies, not our firm.
Refunds are typically issued faster when the return is e-filed and direct deposit is selected.
We can confirm acceptance of your return, but we cannot speed up processing once filed.
Client Seminars & Education
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Do you offer client seminars?
Yes. We host client-only seminars every other month.
Topics may include:
- Entity structure planning
- Business tax strategy
- Real estate investing
- Cash flow and profitability
- Planning for growth and transitions
- Client technology education
Invitations are sent via email and may also be posted on the website.
Office Locations & Parking
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Scottsdale, Arizona Office
Address: 1355 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 370, Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Phone: 480-407-4488
Parking for clients is available in open parking spaces along SkySong Blvd and around the building.
Salem, Oregon Office
Address: 285 Liberty St NE, Suite 300, Salem, OR 97301
Phone: 503-362-9152
Our office is in the Forge Building, formerly Liberty Plaza, on the third floor.
Where should I park?
Please park in the Chemeketa Parkade.
How do I enter?
- Enter from the second-floor skybridge entrance
- Take the elevator to the third floor
Portland, Oregon Office
Address: 16037 SW Upper Boones Ferry Rd, Suite 135, Tigard, OR 97224
Phone: 503-362-9152
Communication & Meetings
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How do I contact my team?
Your first point of contact is our front desk and operations team.
- Email: office@anthemstrategists.com
- Phone: 503-362-9152
They assist with routing questions, scheduling meetings, portal support, SafeSend help, payment questions, and general process or timing questions.
When should I use the website chat bot?
Use the chat bot for quick, general questions such as uploading documents, extensions, SafeSend access, payments, or office location.
What should I utilize the Client Center on the website for?
Use the Client Center for:
- Uploading documents | Client Center -> Send/Receive Files
- Submitting IRS or state notices | Client Center -> Send/Receive Files
- Making payments | Client Center -> Pay Online
- How-To Videos | Client Center -> Resource Hub
- Downloadable forms and packets | Client Center -> Resource Hub
- All other helpful resources | Client Center -> Resource Hub
Records & Paper Copies
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Can I receive a paper copy?
Electronic delivery is standard.
Paper copies are available by request for final returns only. Requests must be made after completion. Print and handling fees may apply as outlined in the engagement letter, and additional processing time may occur during peak season.
You may also download and print documents anytime from the client portal.
