Document Readiness Guide: What to Prepare Before First Call with Ergedine Pericles, CPA, P.A.
At Ergedine Pericles, CPA, P.A., we take every measure to protect your identity, privacy, and financial information. Whether you’re seeking tax resolution, tax preparation, or tax planning, preparing your documents securely ensures your case can be handled efficiently and responsibly.
We operate 100% virtually, and all documents are submitted through our secure client portal — which is available by invitation only after your phone interview.
Step 1: Before You Call – Start Gathering These Basic Documents
Before your phone call, please begin gathering and digitally saving the following documents. These will be requested only after you’re invited into the secure portal:
- IRS Notices (e.g., CP14, CP504, LT11, etc.)
- Prior Year Tax Returns (if available)
- Government-Issued Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- Social Security Card or IRS issued Taxpayer identification number
- Business Formation Documents (if applicable)
Important: Please save these documents in a secure and accessible digital location (such as an encrypted cloud drive).
Digital copies help protect against:
- Natural disasters (fire, flood, etc.)
- Document deterioration or fading
- Theft or accidental loss
Don’t worry if you’re missing some documents — we’ll guide you once we speak.
You’ll have a chance to ask questions during your phone interview — we’ll explain exactly what’s needed next.
Step 2: If a Spouse Is Involved
If your spouse will be included in the services provided:
- Each person must have a separate email address
- Each person will receive a separate invitation to the secure portal
- Both individuals must be present during the Zoom onboarding meeting
- Each must submit a valid government-issued photo ID
This ensures proper identity verification and compliance with security protocols.
Step 3 (For Tax Resolution Services Only) – Financial Interview Preparation
If your situation qualifies for tax resolution support, your phone call will continue into a single in-depth interview to:
- Collect the necessary information to understand your IRS issue
- Explain the next steps
During this interview, please be prepared to discuss your financial basics, including:
- W-2s, 1099s, and business income and expense records
- Your monthly income & expenses (rough estimates are fine)
- Any assets (bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, personal & business assets, etc.)
- Any debts (mortgages, credit cards, etc.)
- Any recent life changes (job loss, divorce, illness, etc.)
- Don’t worry if some documents are missing — we can request IRS transcripts on your behalf
The Next Steps for All Services (If Appropriate)
If your situation is a good fit for services provided:
- Preliminary pricing based on your situation
- You will receive a secure portal invitation
- You’ll be instructed to upload the required basic documents in Step 1
- You’ll be invited to a Zoom onboarding call for identity verification
Why This Process Matters
We never ask for documents by email.
Your personal tax data and identification require secure handling to prevent fraud, misuse, or misrepresentation. Our process protects you from:
- Identity theft and IRS impersonation
- Filing scams or unauthorized claims
- Delays due to incomplete or unverifiable information
After Onboarding: How Communication Works
Once you’ve completed identity verification and signed the engagement letter and invoice:
- You’ll officially become a client
- Communication will continue through:
- Secure Zoom calls
- Encrypted chat via secure TaxDome Portal
- Recorded video updates (as needed)
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re facing IRS issues or need expert tax help:
We’ll ask a few quick questions to get started. If it’s a good fit, we’ll continue with the full intake interview (for tax resolution).
Do not email documents or request Zoom access.
Everything begins with a phone call — we’ll guide you from there.