Privacy Policy
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Books & File ("Books & File," "we," "us") provides bookkeeping and tax preparation services. This policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and how we protect it. It applies to booksandfile.com and to the services we provide to clients.
Information we collect
Information you give us. Name, business name, phone number, email address, and anything you tell us when you contact us, book a call, or fill out a form.
Client information. Once you sign an engagement agreement, clients provide the financial and tax information we need to do the work. This can include income documents, bank and card statements, payroll and contractor records, Social Security numbers or ITINs, and dependent information. We collect this only through secure, encrypted channels. We never collect tax documents through this website.
Website information. Like most websites, our site and our booking tool (Calendly) may collect basic technical information such as browser type, pages visited, and approximate location, using cookies and similar tools.
How we use information
- To respond to inquiries and schedule calls
- To provide bookkeeping, payroll support, and tax preparation services
- To prepare and electronically file returns with the IRS and state tax agencies
- To bill for our services
- To meet legal, regulatory, and IRS record-keeping requirements
- To improve our website and services
How we share information
We do not sell or rent your personal information.
We share information only:
- With the IRS and state or local tax agencies when filing returns or responding to notices for you
- With service providers who help us run the business (for example scheduling, accounting, tax software, secure file storage, and e-signature tools). They may use your information only to provide services to us and must protect it.
- With others you direct us to share with, such as your lender or financial advisor, with your consent
- When required by law, subpoena, or court order
Tax return information. We use and disclose tax return information only as permitted by Internal Revenue Code Section 7216 and its regulations. If we ever want to use or share your tax return information for any purpose other than preparing your return, we will ask for your separate written consent first.
How we protect information
We maintain a written information security program as required for tax professionals under the FTC Safeguards Rule and IRS guidance. Our safeguards include encrypted file transfer, multi-factor authentication on systems that hold client data, limited access for authorized team members only, and secure disposal of records we no longer need. Learn more on our Security page.
No method of transmission or storage is 100% secure, but we work hard to protect your information. If a security incident affects your personal information, we will notify you and the appropriate authorities as required by law.
Cookies and analytics
Our site and booking tool may use cookies and basic analytics to understand how the site is used. You can block or delete cookies in your browser settings. Some features, such as online booking, may not work properly without them.
Retention
We keep client records for as long as needed to provide services and to meet legal and professional record-keeping requirements, generally at least the period required by the IRS for tax preparers and for supporting records. We then securely delete or destroy them.
Your choices
You may ask to access, correct, or delete your personal information by contacting us. Some information must be kept to meet legal requirements. You may also opt out of marketing emails at any time by using the unsubscribe link or contacting us.
Children
Our website is not directed to children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children through it. Information about dependents is collected only from clients as needed to prepare tax returns.
Changes to this policy
We may update this policy from time to time. The "Last updated" date at the top shows when it last changed.
Contact us
Books & File, Chicago, Illinois
Phone: (630) 549-4662
Email: booksandfile@gmail.com