Frequently asked questions
If yours is not here, ask it directly.
How much does bookkeeping cost?
Apex does not publish a rate card, because the number depends on your transaction volume, how many accounts you run and how far behind the records are. You get an exact figure in writing after a free 20-minute consultation.
Do I need a bookkeeper or an accountant?
A bookkeeper keeps your records accurate every month, which is what most small businesses need year round. Apex does both the monthly books and the tax return, so the same person who kept the records files with them.
What kind of practice is Apex, and what does it not do?
Apex is a bookkeeping and tax preparation practice: monthly books, catch-up and cleanup, QuickBooks Online, and federal and California tax returns. It does not examine or issue opinions on financial statements, and it does not hold the state licence that work requires.
Who is allowed to prepare a paid tax return in California?
California requires anyone paid to prepare a tax return, unless they are licensed under one of the state's exempt professions, to register with the California Tax Education Council and to carry a $5,000 surety bond. The Apex registration number is A358537 and you can check it yourself at ctec.org.
How much does it cost to file an LLC in California?
The state charges $70 for the Articles of Organization plus $20 for the Statement of Information, due within 90 days of forming and then every two years. California's $800 minimum annual franchise tax is separate and catches most new owners by surprise.
What does a QuickBooks ProAdvisor do?
A ProAdvisor is certified by Intuit to set up, fix and run QuickBooks Online for other businesses. Apex holds the Intuit Certified QuickBooks Level 2 ProAdvisor certification and the Intuit Certified QuickBooks Payroll ProAdvisor certification.
How often should a small business reconcile its books?
Every month, for every bank and credit card account. Reconciling once a year means finding a January mistake the following April, when it costs several times more to fix.
What records do I need for small business taxes?
Bank and credit card statements for all twelve months, last year's tax return, any 1099s or W-2s, payroll reports, records of equipment bought or sold, loan statements, and a mileage log if you claim vehicle use. If some of it is missing, say so on the call: reconstructing records is normal work.
When are business taxes due in California in 2026?
S-corporation and partnership returns are due 16 March 2026; individual returns, single-member LLCs and C-corporations 15 April 2026, with extensions to 15 September and 15 October. California's $800 minimum franchise tax for LLCs is due on the 15th day of the fourth month of your tax year.
My books are two years behind. Is it too late?
No, and it is one of the most common reasons people call. Catch-up work is scoped and priced before it starts, so you know the number before you commit.
Do you work remotely or only in Sacramento?
Both. Apex works with clients remotely across California, not only in Sacramento, and also meets in person in Arden-Arcade at 3550 Watt Ave, Suite 140.
What happens after I schedule a consultation?
You have a free 20-minute call to discuss your business and what you need. Afterward you receive a written service plan and pricing before any work begins.