Services Offered by ZOOMTAX
Professional Tax Services

Federal, State, and Local Income Tax Preparation
Zoomtax professionals can help prepare your federal, state, and local income tax returns.  You will meet with a competent, college educated professional who will help you get all the tax deductions and credits you are allowed while at the same time provide you with friendly and courteous service.  Our professionals have experience with complex federal tax returns as well as the ability to prepare any state and local income tax return.

Corporate, Partnership, LLC, S-Corporation Tax Preparation
Zoomtax professionals have experience in preparing Corporation, S-Corporation, and Partnership tax returns for federal and all states.  We can explain the different pros and cons of setting up your business as an LLC, C-Corporation, S-Corporation, or Sole Proprietor. 

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS & TEACHERS

U.S. tax regulations require that ALL Nonresident F-1 and J-1 students file a federal income tax return. Failure to file can have immigration consequences as applicants for "Green Card" status must show proof of filing tax returns. ZOOMTAX can help you with all your federal and state income tax obligations.

International Students
Nonresident Tax Return Preparation and Planning Students and Teachers on F and J visas as well as Tax Treaty positions if applicable. Phone, Fax, Email, or mail your information to us and we will contact you to arrange the completion of your tax returns. Your completed tax return will be sent via overnight delivery service.
  • Nonresident F-1 and J-1 Students with No US source Income
    F-1 and J-1 students or scholars are required to file to meet their federal income tax filing requirement. IRS Form 8843, Statement of Exempt Individuals and Individual with a Medical Condition, must be filed even though you had no US source income. The proper sections should be completed and the form should be signed, dated, and mailed to the Internal Revenue Service, Philadelphia, PA 19255 by the tax due date. Form 8843 is due June 15 if it is the only form filed.
  • I was in the U.S. for 25 days during 2007 and didn't work. Am I required to file IRS form 8843?
    YES. You are required to file Form 8843 regardless of the number of days in the U.S.
  • What form do I file if I received a W-2 from my employer?
    F-1 and J-1 students who had U.S. source earned income should file form 1040NR-EZ or Form 1040NR and Form 8843.
  • Am I allowed to take the Standard Deduction as a Nonresident?
    No, nonresident aliens are not allowed the standard deduction. You may claim limited itemized deductions on Form 1040NR. (Exception - students from India may claim the standard deduction)
  • Can I claim a "Student Tax Treaty Benefit" and exempt a portion of my U.S. earnings from U.S. tax?
    Qualified students may exempt personal services income performed in the U.S. of up to $5,000 per tax year depending on the country's tax treaty. Additionally, you may be able to exclude as much as $10,000 U.S. income received while on a technical apprentice or practical training assignment or a period of 12 consecutive months. Treaty provisions for students and teachers differ by Country.

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Refund Anticipation Loan

What is a Refund Anticipation Loan (RAL)
Although sometimes referred to as fast cash, speedy refunds, or numerous other names, the checks that you receive within 8 to 48 hours of filing your income tax return is a REFUND ANTICIPATION LOAN. The loan application is prepared and submitted to a bank for approval and you are charged interest by the bank if you are approved.  The interest rate charged is typically quite high!
How long does it take for an RAL?
Once the tax return is accepted by the the IRS, a RAL can take approximately 4 – 48 hours if approved by Santa Barbara Bank & Trust.
Does everyone qualify for the RAL?
No, since the RAL is an actual LOAN, you must meet the Santa Barbara Bank and Trust loan approval criteria.  Individuals that have delinquent taxes, education loans, child support, etc will not be approved by Santa Barbara Bank and Trust.
Does ZOOMTAX offer the RAL?
Yes, ZOOMTAX has an agreement with Santa Barbara Bank & Trust to offer the RAL.
How much does the RAL cost?
Santa Barbara Bank and Trust assesses a finance charges on their loans based on the following loan scale. Approximate interest rate charged is determined by refund amount.  Estimated finance cost with application fees listed below:
  • $300- $1000 ($73)
  • $1001-$1,500 ($98)
  • $1,501 - $2,000 ($113)
  • $2,001 - $3,500 ($140)
  • $3,501 - $9,999 ($150)
Is there a fee for IRS electronic filing?
At ZOOMTAX, e-file of your tax return is always FREE with your paid tax preparation. If you've prepared the tax return yourself and would like us to transmit it electronically, we will e-file the return for a small data input fee. The IRS does not charge a fee for e-filing. Generally, you will receive your refund within 7-14 business days.  Electronic Filing is alway FREE at Zoomtax!
Is it better to just e-file with the IRS or get the RAL?
YES!  It is smarter and better financially for you to just electronically file your tax return and have the IRS direct deposit your tax refund into your bank account.   If you can wait a few extra days, the e-file without a doubt is the best deal since it is always FREE at ZOOMTAX with your paid tax preparation. The IRS processes tax returns relatively quick.  Tax returns accepted by the IRS by 11:00 am Thursdays usually have the refund direct deposited within 7 days.  You will receive your entire refund fast and free!  However, if you need cash quickly, ZOOMTAX does offer the RAL in partnership with Santa Barbara Bank and Trust.  The smartest decision is to file electronically and wait for the IRS to either direct deposit your refund or mail your refund check to you. 
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