Frequently Asked Questions

The Balance Sheet, Inc provides comprehensive tax preparation and tax planning services for individuals and small businesses. Services range from personal tax returns to more complex filings for sole proprietors, LLCs, and corporations. Tax planning is handled proactively, helping clients make informed decisions throughout the year—not just at filing time.

Small business owners work directly with Alan Besterman for tax preparation, planning, payroll coordination, and ongoing advisory support. Whether you’re a sole proprietor, LLC, or growing company, guidance is tailored to your structure, stage of growth, and long-term goals. Many clients also rely on the firm for business startup consulting and entity selection advice.

Yes. A key specialty of The Balance Sheet, Inc is assisting state and local government employees with their tax preparation and planning needs. Public sector income structures, benefits, and retirement considerations can be complex, and the firm has long-standing experience helping government workers navigate these areas with confidence.

Tax preparation focuses on accurately filing required returns, while tax planning looks ahead. Planning involves strategies around income timing, deductions, retirement contributions, and business decisions that may affect future tax outcomes. At The Balance Sheet, Inc, tax preparation and planning work together to support better long-term results.

Yes. Payroll services are available for small businesses that want accuracy, consistency, and compliance without managing everything on their own. Payroll is handled in coordination with tax reporting to reduce errors and streamline year-end filings. Business owners also receive clear guidance on how payroll decisions affect taxes and cash flow.

The Balance Sheet, Inc provides retirement planning and investment-related guidance designed to align with each client’s tax situation and financial goals. This includes planning for retirement contributions, understanding tax implications of investment income, and preparing for required distributions. Retirement planning is coordinated closely with tax preparation and planning services.

Absolutely. Business startup and entity selection consulting is a core service. Alan works with entrepreneurs to evaluate whether a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporate structure makes the most sense based on liability, taxes, and future growth plans. Guidance continues beyond formation to help ensure the structure still fits as the business evolves.

Clients choose The Balance Sheet, Inc for its independent, one-on-one approach. Having been taken over by Alan since 1994, the firm offers direct access to an experienced advisor who provides practical guidance without unnecessary complexity. The practice serves clients throughout Columbia County and the greater Albany-area region, with a strong reputation for reliability, clarity, and personalized service.

Yes. While the firm is based in East Chatham, NY, many clients are located throughout the surrounding region, other states, and across the US, and they work with The Balance Sheet, Inc remotely. Technology-enabled systems allow for efficient communication, secure document sharing, and consistent support regardless of location.

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Location

1100 Route 295
East Chatham, NY 12060