Heemer, Klein & Company has been required to make several operational changes following Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order on March 24. The order, which allows only “essential” businesses to continue operation, means our firm will continue processing payroll and sales tax services for our clients. We will continue, effective March 30th with tax preparation services on a limited basis until the Governor’s office clarifies if the filing of income tax returns is an “essential” service per the Executive order. We are prioritizing the filing of returns that have refunds and those that need a tax return filed to qualify for the stimulus checks of $1,200 / $2,400.
As a result, we have implemented the following changes during this difficult time:
- Our offices are closed to the public, however, as noted we are working on a limited basis and plan to fully re-open to the public when the Governor’s Executive Order is rescinded.
- Several essential staff members will work from their home offices. They will be available to clients via phone or email.
- Tax Preparation Services:
- Clients may mail or email documents to our offices as well as use our secure drop box, next to our main entrance. We also have a portal system for those that prefer to upload documents electronically. The drop box that allows work to be delivered inside our office on a 24/7 basis, involves driving to our office which is not recommended by State and local government leaders at this time.
- All tax returns completed during this time will be sent to clients electronically or in some cases via mail or UPS. For the most part, we are unable to provide clients with paper copies of tax returns during this period. These clients will need to return all e-file authorizations electronically or by fax, mail, or drop box.
- The Federal and Michigan deadlines for tax filing and making estimated tax payments have been extended three months to July 15, 2020. We are not certain yet when we will be able to schedule face-to-face meetings again. Most likely, not before May 1, 2020, based on the latest information available.
- Client Payroll & Sales Tax Services:
- Clients are encouraged to provide payroll and sales tax information to their staff accountant by email or client portal, if possible. We will also continue to receive payroll information by FedEx, UPS, and regular mail and our drop box, with electronic transmission, preferred.
- Client payrolls and sales tax preparation will be processed as normally scheduled and our staff accountant will let clients know of any changes.
- We are available to advise and discuss with our clients the details of the Stimulus Package / CARES Act recently signed into law, Michigan unemployment benefits, Family Leave Act, SBA loans, and other Covid-19 related issues.
We appreciate your understanding and patience in these challenging days. Please be safe and we hope to see you soon.
