Do you have questions?

Getting started with A&W Tax Service or continuing as a valued customer, there are still times you may have questions. We've listed the most common questions we receive, with relevant answers and even links to more detailed information. If you don't see your question, please do not hesitate to Contact Us.


What should I bring to My Tax Appointment?

For most simple returns, most people will need their ID, W-2, and check for routing information. For detailed returns, you will need to bring all related tax documents. We've created a list of required documents - What to Bring to your Tax Appointment.

  • All forms of income such as W-2's, 1099-NEC, 1099-Misc, 1099-R's, 1099-G's, 1099-Int, 1099-Div, 1099-B's
  • Forms for health insurance: 1095-A,B,C
  • Deduction forms for Tuition (1098-T), (1098 Mortgage Interest & Taxes)
  • Contracts for large purchases of equipment, machinery or vehicles
  • A list of charitable donations, DMV registration fees, and sales taxes paid on large items.
  • Misc unreimbursed employee business expenses such as union dues (applies to State level only)
  • Income forms from social security or railroad retirement. (1099-SSA, or 1099-RRB)
  • A copy of last year's tax return
  • Identification records for every family member including social security cards.
  • Profit & Loss statements for any small business operations.

If you are booking an appointment with A&W Tax Service and we completed your taxes for you, then you do not need to bring a copy of your tax returns. If you are a new client or filed elsewhere last year, then you will need to bring a copy of last year's tax return.

If you need a copy of previous years' tax returns, please Contact Us


How Long should I retain my tax records?

The tax records you filed with should be kept for three years. However, the length of time that your tax documents should be kept depends on your individual circumstances, as defined by the IRS. You should keep your tax records as long as is necessary to provide you with accurate information for your tax return.

The IRS has more information on How long should I keep records? for personal taxes.

How much should I have withheld?

The IRS has created a self-service Tax Withholding Estimator that allows you to find out how much you should select when completing the W-4 form for your employer. You will need several documents to use the estimator, which include:

  • Most recent pay statements for yourself, and if you are married, for your spouse too.
  • Information for other sources of income you may have.
  • Your most recent income tax.

“Keep in mind that the Tax Withholding Estimator’s results will only be as accurate as the information you enter.” IRS.gov

Withholding Calculator


Where can I check the status of my Federal Tax Refund?

The IRS has two tools available to find the status of your refund. The first is an App for your mobile device. Search in the app store for IRS2Go App.

Another tool is online via the IRS.gov website, Check My Refund Status.