Tax Services (CBIZ) – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General

1. What tax services are available through CBIZ on the marketplace?
   Employees can access professional tax preparation, tax planning, IRS filing support, and advisory services for both personal and small business needs.

2. Why are tax services included in an employee benefits marketplace?
   Taxes are a major stress point for employees. By providing access to trusted professionals, employers help reduce stress and improve financial wellness at no additional cost to the company.

For Employees

1. Can CBIZ help me file my personal taxes?
   Yes. Employees can use CBIZ for annual tax filing, maximizing deductions, and ensuring compliance with state and federal tax laws.

2. Do employees get discounted rates?
   Yes. Employees who use CBIZ through the marketplace typically receive preferred pricing and access to bundled tax + financial wellness services.

3. Can CBIZ help if I have a more complex tax situation?
   Yes. CBIZ can handle complex returns, including self-employed income, rental properties, stock options, and small business tax filings.

4. What if I get audited?
   CBIZ provides audit support and representation services if the IRS or state agency reviews your return.

5. Are services available virtually or only in person?
   CBIZ offers both virtual tax preparation and in-person meetings, depending on location and employee preference.

For Employers/HR

1. Does offering CBIZ tax services cost the employer anything?
   Generally, no. It is offered as a voluntary benefit. Employees pay for the services they use at discounted marketplace rates.

2. How does this benefit employee retention?
   Providing access to tax experts shows employees that the employer cares about their financial wellbeing, helping reduce stress and increasing loyalty.

3. Is there administrative work for HR?
   No. The marketplace and CBIZ handle service delivery. Employers simply provide access to employees.

4. Can CBIZ help with business taxes as well?
   Yes. Beyond employee benefits, CBIZ provides business tax and advisory services that employers may also take advantage of through the marketplace.

Access & Support

1. How do employees connect with CBIZ tax professionals?
   Employees can schedule appointments through the marketplace portal—either virtually or with a local CBIZ office.

2. What support is available during tax season?
   Employees have access to licensed tax professionals, extended office hours during peak filing times, and secure online document upload.

Estate Planning Documents – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General

1. What is estate planning?
   Estate planning is the process of creating legal documents that outline how your assets, property, and wishes will be managed if you pass away or become unable to make decisions.

2. Why should I consider estate planning?
   Estate planning helps protect your family, avoid confusion, and ensure that your wishes are carried out. It can also reduce unnecessary taxes, fees, or delays in transferring assets.

3. Is estate planning only for the wealthy?
   No. Estate planning is important for anyone who wants to make sure their family and assets are protected—whether that’s a house, savings, or personal belongings.

Documents

1. What types of estate planning documents are included?
   Common documents include:

• Will – Directs how your assets will be distributed.

• Trust – Helps manage and transfer assets efficiently, sometimes avoiding probate.

• Power of Attorney – Names someone to handle financial or legal matters if you can’t.

• Healthcare Directive – States your medical wishes and appoints a decision-maker if needed.

1. Do I need all of these documents?
   Not always. Which documents make sense depends on your personal situation. Many people start with a will and power of attorney.

Access & Process

1. How does Vanilla help with estate planning?
   Vanilla makes the process easier by helping financial advisors and attorneys work together with clients to organize information, generate documents, and keep everything updated.

2. Can these documents be updated later?
   Yes. Estate planning is not a one-time task. You can and should update documents after major life events—like marriage, having children, or buying a home.

3. Do I still need an attorney?
   Yes. While Vanilla helps streamline the process, legal documents should be finalized with an estate planning attorney to ensure they are valid under state law.

Cost & Benefits

1. Does this cost anything for employees?
   Yes, but employees may access preferred pricing through the benefits marketplace, making professional estate planning more affordable.

2. Why is this offered as a workplace benefit?
   Estate planning provides peace of mind for employees and their families, reducing financial and emotional stress down the road.