Privacy Policy

David R. Bartels, Inc. ("we," "us") prepares tax returns and provides bookkeeping and payroll services from 701 NW 101st Terrace, Plantation, FL 33324. Tax return information is among the most sensitive data a person has, and federal law (including Internal Revenue Code §7216 and the FTC Safeguards Rule) limits how tax preparers may use and disclose it. This policy explains our practices.

Information we collect

• Identity and contact details: names, addresses, phone numbers, email, dates of birth, and Social Security or taxpayer identification numbers for you, your spouse, and dependents.
• Tax and financial documents: W-2s, 1099s, brokerage statements, mortgage and property records, business financial records, payroll data, and prior returns.
• Bank information: account and routing numbers for refunds, payments, and payroll.
• Website data: basic server logs. Our contact form collects only what you type; we ask that you not include SSNs in it.

How we use it

We use your information only to prepare and file your returns, keep your books and payroll, respond to tax notices, answer your questions, and bill for our services. We do not use tax return information for marketing unrelated to tax services, and we never sell it.

When we disclose it

• To the IRS, Florida Department of Revenue, and other tax agencies when filing returns you have approved.
• To service providers we rely on — tax software, our secure client portal, payroll processors — under contracts requiring confidentiality.
• To our Enrolled Agent partner, only with your written consent, if you engage them for representation.
• When required by law, court order, or subpoena.

Any other disclosure of tax return information requires your prior written consent in the form required by IRS regulations.

How we protect it

We maintain a written information security plan as required by the FTC Safeguards Rule and IRS Publication 4557. Safeguards include encrypted portal uploads, multi-factor authentication, encrypted devices, access limited by role, background checks for staff, and secure shredding of paper.

Retention

We keep copies of returns and supporting workpapers for at least seven years, and payroll records for at least four years, as tax rules require. After that, records are securely destroyed.

Data breach response

If we discover unauthorized access to client information, we will notify affected clients and the authorities as required by Florida law (§501.171, Florida Statutes) and IRS guidance.

Your choices

You may request a copy of your returns and records, ask us to correct information, or withdraw consent for optional disclosures. Email support@bartelstax.us or call (954) 475-2836. We respond within 30 days.

Changes

If we change this policy, we'll update the effective date above and notify current clients of material changes.

Contact

David R. Bartels, Inc., 701 NW 101st Terrace, Plantation, FL 33324 · (954) 475-2836 · support@bartelstax.us