Introduction

GTQ Tax & Advisory ("we," "our," or "us") respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal and financial information. This Privacy Policy serves as our mandatory disclosure under the **Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)** and explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your **Non-Public Personal Information (NPI)**.

Information We Collect

We collect information necessary to prepare your tax returns and provide our professional services:

• Non-Public Personal Information (NPI): Name, address, Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and dependent information.
• Financial Records: Income documents (W-2, 1099 forms), expense records, investment statements, and retirement account information.
• Business Data: Business income and expenses, depreciation schedules, and payroll records for self-employed clients.
• Contact & Communication: Email address, phone number, and secure portal message history.

How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Prepare and file your federal and state tax returns accurately.
• Provide tax planning and advisory services tailored to your needs.
• Communicate with you regarding your tax matters and filing status.
• Comply with IRS Circular 230 and all federal e-file regulations.
• Maintain mandatory records as required by IRS Publication 1345.

Data Security & WISP Compliance

In accordance with **IRS Publication 4557 (Safeguarding Taxpayer Data)**, we maintain a comprehensive **Written Information Security Plan (WISP)**. We implement rigorous technical and administrative safeguards:

• Secure Client Portal: All document exchanges occur via our encrypted portal. We do not accept sensitive data via standard email.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Required for all staff access to tax software and client records.
• Full-Disk Encryption: All devices used for tax preparation are secured with hardware-level encryption (BitLocker/FileVault).
• Access Control: NPI is limited strictly to authorized personnel directly involved in your tax preparation.

Information Sharing & Disclosure

We do not sell your personal information to third parties.

We share your NPI only in the following circumstances:

• Tax Authorities: With the IRS and state tax agencies for the purpose of e-filing your returns.
• Banking Partners: **ONLY** if you specifically request a Refund Advance or Bank Product, your information is shared with our authorized banking partners for loan approval.
• Service Providers: With IRS-compliant tax software providers and secure document management systems used in delivering our services.
• Legal Requirements: When required by a subpoena, court order, or official government investigation.

Data Retention

We retain your tax records and supporting documents in accordance with IRS regulations and professional standards:

• Tax Returns & Supporting Documents: Minimum 3 years from the filing date (IRS Pub 1345).
• Permanent Records: Certain foundational records may be retained indefinitely for your convenience.

Your Rights and Choices

You have the right to:

• Access and receive a copy of your filed tax information.
• Correct inaccurate or incomplete information in our records.
• Request deletion of your information (subject to legal and regulatory retention requirements).

Because we do not share your information for marketing purposes, an opt-out notice under GLBA is not required.

Changes to This Policy

We update this Privacy Policy annually or as required by IRS regulation. Your continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

Contact Our Privacy Team

IRS & Federal Guidance

For more information on taxpayer data protection, please refer to: