Terms of Service
Last Updated: August 17, 2025
1. Definitions and Interpretation
For the purposes of these Terms of Service, the following definitions shall apply:
- "Company," "we," "us," or "our" refers to Colin D Ward, operating as a professional accounting and tax preparation service.
- "Client," "you," or "your" refers to any individual or entity that engages our professional services.
- "Services" encompasses all professional accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, business formation, and related consulting services provided by the Company.
- "Engagement" means any professional service arrangement between the Company and Client, whether written or oral.
- "Confidential Information" includes all financial, personal, business, and proprietary information disclosed by Client to Company.
2. Scope of Services and Professional Limitations
The Company provides professional accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and business advisory services within the scope of applicable state and federal regulations. Services are performed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and applicable professional standards.
The Company does not provide legal advice, investment advisory services, or services requiring licensure beyond tax preparation and accounting. Clients requiring such services shall be advised to consult with appropriately licensed professionals.
All services are subject to the Company's professional judgment and may be declined at the Company's sole discretion if deemed outside the scope of competence, potentially unlawful, or contrary to professional ethics standards.
3. Client Responsibilities and Representations
Client warrants and represents that all information, documents, and materials provided to the Company are complete, accurate, and truthful to the best of Client's knowledge. Client acknowledges that the accuracy of the Company's work product is dependent upon the completeness and accuracy of information provided by Client.
Client agrees to:
- Provide all requested documentation and information in a timely manner;
- Respond promptly to requests for clarification or additional information;
- Maintain organized financial records as reasonably requested;
- Comply with all applicable laws and regulations;
- Review all work product before submission or filing and notify the Company of any discrepancies.
4. Confidentiality and Professional Privilege
The Company maintains strict confidentiality regarding all Client information and shall not disclose Confidential Information except as required by law, court order, or with Client's express written consent. This confidentiality obligation survives termination of the professional relationship.
Client acknowledges that certain communications may not be protected by attorney-client privilege, as the Company is not providing legal services. Tax return information is subject to IRS disclosure requirements and applicable federal and state privacy laws.
5. Fees, Payment Terms, and Collection
Fees for services shall be established by written or oral agreement and are due upon receipt of invoice unless alternative arrangements are expressly agreed upon in writing. Payment terms are due on receipt, with no grace period extended unless specifically contracted.
The Company reserves the right to suspend services or withdraw from engagements for non-payment of fees. Client remains liable for all costs of collection, including reasonable attorney fees, in the event of default.
Fee estimates are non-binding and subject to adjustment based on actual complexity and time requirements. Client will be notified of material deviations from estimates.
6. Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, THE COMPANY'S LIABILITY FOR ANY CLAIM ARISING FROM OR RELATING TO SERVICES PROVIDED SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE TOTAL FEES PAID BY CLIENT FOR THE SPECIFIC SERVICES GIVING RISE TO THE CLAIM.
THE COMPANY SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, OR INDIRECT DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOST PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, OR LOST OPPORTUNITIES.
Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from Client's failure to provide accurate information, comply with applicable laws, or follow professional recommendations.
7. Professional Standards and Regulatory Compliance
The Company adheres to applicable professional standards, including those established by the Internal Revenue Service and state regulatory authorities. Services are performed with due professional care consistent with industry standards for tax preparation and accounting services.
The Company operates as an independent accounting and tax preparation service and maintains good standing with applicable regulatory bodies as required for the services provided.
8. Termination and Withdrawal
Either party may terminate the professional relationship upon written notice. The Company reserves the right to withdraw from any engagement for professional, ethical, or legal reasons, including but not limited to conflicts of interest, non-payment, or Client non-cooperation.
Upon termination, Client remains liable for all fees incurred through the termination date. The Company will return Client materials but may retain copies for professional records as required by law.
9. Electronic Communications and Data Security
Client consents to electronic communications, including email, for routine professional matters. While the Company employs reasonable security measures, Client acknowledges that electronic communications cannot be guaranteed secure and assumes associated risks.
The Company maintains data security protocols consistent with industry standards but cannot guarantee absolute protection against unauthorized access, hardware failure, or other technological risks.
10. Dispute Resolution and Governing Law
Any disputes arising from these Terms of Service or the professional relationship shall be resolved through binding arbitration under the rules of the American Arbitration Association, conducted in Hamilton County, Ohio.
These Terms of Service shall be governed by Ohio state law, without regard to conflict of law principles. Any legal proceedings shall be conducted exclusively in the courts of Hamilton County, Ohio.
11. Modifications and Severability
These Terms of Service may be modified only by written agreement signed by both parties. If any provision is deemed unenforceable, the remainder shall remain in full force and effect.
These Terms of Service constitute the complete agreement between the parties regarding the subject matter and supersede all prior agreements, whether written or oral.
12. Professional Records Retention
The Company will maintain professional records in accordance with applicable legal and professional requirements, typically seven (7) years from completion of services. Client materials may be returned upon request but copies may be retained for regulatory compliance.
Questions About These Terms?
If you have questions regarding these Terms of Service, please contact us through our website contact form or professional consultation.
Colin D Ward
Professional Tax & Business Services
Cincinnati, Ohio