Plain Language Overview: These Terms explain the agreement between you (“Client”) and Putnam & Company, Inc. (“Putnam,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) for using our website, client portal, and professional services. By using our Services, you agree to these Terms and our Privacy Policy.
By accessing or using our website, secure client portal, or related services (collectively, the “Services”), you agree to these Terms and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please discontinue use immediately. We may update these Terms from time to time; the latest version will be posted on this page and is effective upon posting.
Professional Services: All accounting and tax services are provided by licensed Enrolled Agents (EAs) authorized by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to represent clients before the IRS. We are members of the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) and the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP).
Professional Standards: We follow IRS Circular 230, NAEA, and NATP professional ethics standards, along with applicable federal and state laws.
Confidentiality: We maintain strict confidentiality consistent with IRS, NAEA, and NATP ethics. Information will not be disclosed without your written consent unless required by law.
Data Breach Notification: If a data breach affects your information, we will notify you promptly in accordance with applicable laws.
Late Document Policy: Documents submitted after agreed deadlines may result in extensions, delays, or additional fees.
Document Retention: Retain tax-related documents for at least seven (7) years.
Our professional relationship is defined in a written engagement letter that outlines scope, responsibilities, fees, and timelines.
Changes to Scope: If additional work is requested or required, fees and timelines will be adjusted and documented in writing.
Limitations: Unless specifically agreed in writing, our services do not include fraud detection/investigation, legal or investment advice, actuarial services, or internal audit functions.
Tax Return Policy: Tax returns will not be released until all fees are paid in full (unless prohibited by professional standards). Accepted payment methods and any deposit requirements will be detailed in your engagement letter.
We follow IRS Publication 4557 guidelines and use industry-standard security measures, including encrypted communications, secure client portals, and multi-factor authentication where applicable. Sensitive information should only be sent through our secure portal or encrypted email.
Our methodologies, tools, and proprietary materials remain our intellectual property. Clients receive a limited license to use work products (e.g., tax returns, financial statements) prepared specifically for them.
Our liability for any claim is limited to the total fees paid for the specific service in question. We do not guarantee specific tax outcomes or financial results; outcomes depend on applicable law and your individual circumstances.
We are licensed to practice as Enrolled Agents under the authority of the IRS and comply with IRS Circular 230, NAEA and NATP professional standards, and applicable federal and state tax laws.
Either party may terminate the relationship in writing. Upon termination, all outstanding fees are immediately due. We will provide client files and records as required by professional standards, may retain copies for our records as permitted by law, and confidentiality obligations remain in effect indefinitely.
These Terms are governed by the laws of North Carolina. Any disputes will be resolved through binding arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association, unless otherwise specified in your engagement letter.