Privacy Policy & Terms of Service
Privacy Policy
Introduction
At ABC CPA Group, we understand that your financial information is among your most sensitive data. As a professional accounting and bookkeeping firm, we are committed to protecting your privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of all client information in accordance with professional accounting standards and applicable privacy laws.
This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, protect, and share your information when you engage our accounting and bookkeeping services.
Information We Collect
Personal and Business Information
- Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number, business address, and emergency contact details
- Business Details: Business name, legal structure (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.), tax identification numbers (EIN, SSN), business licenses, and registration information
- Personnel Information: Details about business owners, partners, key employees, and authorized representatives
Financial Information
- Banking Information: Bank account numbers, routing numbers, credit card information, and online banking credentials (when authorized)
- Financial Documents: Bank statements, credit card statements, receipts, invoices, purchase orders, contracts, and payment records
- Tax Information: Prior tax returns, W-2s, 1099s, estimated tax payments, and other tax-related documentation
- Payroll Data: Employee information, wage details, benefits information, and payroll tax records
- Financial Statements: Profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and general ledger information
Business Operations Data
- Transaction Records: Sales records, expense reports, inventory information, and accounts receivable/payable data
- Legal Documents: Articles of incorporation, operating agreements, contracts, and regulatory filings
- Insurance Information: Business insurance policies and claims information
Technical Information
- Website Data: IP address, browser type, device information, and website usage patterns
- Communication Records: Emails, phone call logs, meeting notes, and other correspondence related to our services
How We Use Your Information
We use your information exclusively for legitimate business purposes related to providing accounting and bookkeeping services:
Core Services
- Maintaining accurate financial records and bookkeeping
- Preparing and filing tax returns and regulatory reports
- Processing payroll and employee benefits
- Providing financial analysis and business consulting
- Ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations
Business Operations
- Communicating with you about your account and services
- Scheduling appointments and sending service reminders
- Improving our services and developing new offerings
- Meeting our professional and legal obligations
Legal Compliance
- Complying with applicable accounting standards and regulations
- Responding to lawful requests from government agencies
- Maintaining required records for audit and regulatory purposes
Information Sharing and Disclosure
We maintain strict confidentiality and do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information. We may share your information only in the following limited circumstances:
With Your Consent
- Third-party software providers you authorize us to use on your behalf
- Financial institutions for banking and payment processing
- Other professionals (attorneys, insurance agents) when specifically requested
Service Providers
- Technology vendors who provide secure data processing services
- Cloud storage providers with appropriate security safeguards
- Professional liability insurance carriers (when necessary for coverage)
Legal Requirements
- Government agencies when required by law or regulation
- Court orders, subpoenas, or other legal processes
- Tax authorities as required for compliance and reporting
Business Transfers
In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of our business, client information may be transferred to the new entity, subject to the same privacy protections.
Data Security
We implement comprehensive security measures to protect your information:
Technical Safeguards
- Encryption: All data is encrypted both in transit and at rest using industry-standard protocols
- Secure Networks: Protected firewalls and secure server environments
- Access Controls: Multi-factor authentication and role-based access restrictions
- Regular Updates: Ongoing security patches and system updates
Physical Security
- Secure Facilities: Locked offices with restricted access
- Document Security: Fireproof filing systems and secure document destruction
- Equipment Protection: Password-protected devices and secure storage
Administrative Controls
- Staff Training: Regular privacy and security training for all employees
- Background Checks: Comprehensive screening of all personnel
- Confidentiality Agreements: Binding agreements with all staff and contractors
- Incident Response: Established procedures for addressing security breaches
Data Retention
We retain your information only as long as necessary for business and legal purposes:
- Active Client Records: Maintained throughout our service relationship
- Tax Records: Retained for seven years after filing, as required by law
- Financial Records: Kept according to applicable accounting standards and legal requirements
- Communication Records: Maintained for the duration of our relationship plus applicable statute of limitations
When information is no longer needed, it is securely destroyed using certified destruction methods.
Your Rights and Choices
You have several rights regarding your personal information:
Access and Correction
- Request copies of your personal information we maintain
- Request corrections to inaccurate or incomplete information
- Update your contact information and communication preferences
Data Portability
- Request your data in a commonly used electronic format
- Transfer your information to another service provider
Limitations
Please note that some requests may be limited by professional accounting standards, legal requirements, or the need to maintain accurate financial records.
Cookie Policy
Our website uses cookies and similar technologies to:
- Remember your preferences and login information
- Analyze website traffic and usage patterns
- Improve our website functionality and user experience
You can control cookie settings through your browser, though some website features may not function properly if cookies are disabled.
Third-Party Services
We may use trusted third-party services to enhance our offerings:
- Accounting Software: QuickBooks, Xero, and other professional platforms
- Document Management: Secure cloud storage and sharing platforms
- Communication Tools: Encrypted email and video conferencing services
All third-party providers are carefully vetted and required to maintain appropriate security and privacy protections.
Children's Privacy
Our services are designed for businesses and adult clients. We do not knowingly collect information from individuals under 18 years of age.
International Considerations
If you are located outside the United States, please be aware that your information may be transferred to and processed in the United States, where our servers and primary business operations are located.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or applicable laws. We will notify clients of material changes via email and post updates on our website. The effective date at the top of this policy indicates when it was last revised.
Contact Information
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or our privacy practices, please contact us:
ABC CPA Group
Privacy Officer
Email:
[email protected]
Phone: 415-300-0804
Address: 6200 Stoneridge Mall Road Suite 300, Pleasanton, CA 94588
Professional Standards
As a professional accounting firm, we adhere to the ethical standards and confidentiality requirements established by:
- California Board of Accountancy
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CalCPA)
These professional standards provide additional protections for your information beyond what is described in this Privacy Policy.
Information We Collect
- Personal Information: Name, email, phone number, and business details.
- Financial Data: Documents and information necessary for providing accounting and bookkeeping services.
- Website Usage Data: IP address, browser type, and activity on our site (via cookies).
How We Use Your Information
- To provide and improve our services.
- To communicate with you regarding updates, invoices, and reports.
- To comply with legal and regulatory obligations.
Data Security
We prioritize the security of your information by implementing the following measures:
- Encryption of sensitive data during transmission.
- Secure servers and firewalls to protect stored data.
- Regular security audits and employee training to prevent unauthorized access
Sharing Your Information
We do not sell, trade, or rent your personal information to third parties. Your information is only shared in the following circumstances:
- With Trusted Service Providers: Third-party vendors who assist us in delivering our services (e.g., payroll processors, tax software).
- As Required by Law: To comply with legal obligations or respond to lawful requests by public authorities
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies to:
- Enhance your browsing experience.
- Analyze website usage and performance.
- Remember your preferences for future visits.
You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings. Please note that disabling cookies may affect the functionality of our website.
Data Retention
We retain your information for as long as necessary to provide services, comply with legal obligations, resolve disputes, and enforce agreements.
Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites and encourage you to review their policies.
Updates to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. The effective date at the top of this page indicates when it was last revised.
Terms of Service
Welcome to ABC CPA Group. By accessing or using our accounting and bookkeeping services (“Services”), you agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms of Service (“Terms”). If you do not agree with these Terms, you must not use our Services.
Acceptance of Terms
By accessing our website or using our Services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms, as well as our Privacy Policy.
Services Provided
We offer professional accounting, bookkeeping, and related financial services, including but not limited to:
- Finance Solutions
- Accounting Services
- Human Resource Solutions
- Technology Solutions
The scope of Services will be outlined in your service agreement with us.
User Responsibilities
You agree to:
Provide accurate and timely information necessary for the provision of Services.- Review all reports, filings, and documents prepared by us and notify us of any errors or omissions.
- Maintain the confidentiality of login credentials, if applicable.
You acknowledge that failure to provide accurate or complete information may result in delays or inaccuracies in the Services we provide.
Fees and Payment
- Fees for our Services will be outlined in your service agreement or invoicing terms.
- Payment is due as specified in your invoice. Late payments may result in additional fees or suspension of Services.
- We reserve the right to adjust pricing with prior notice.
Confidentiality
We prioritize the confidentiality of your financial information and will not disclose it to third parties without your consent, except as required by law or outlined in our Privacy Policy.
Limitation of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law:
- We are not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from your use of our Services.
- Our total liability for any claims related to the Services is limited to the amount paid by you for the specific Service giving rise to the claim.
Termination
We reserve the right to terminate or suspend your access to our Services at our discretion, including but not limited to:
- Breach of these Terms.
- Failure to pay fees owed.
Upon termination, you will remain responsible for any outstanding payments.
Third-Party Services
Our website may include links to third-party websites or tools. We are not responsible for the content, accuracy, or practices of these external sites. Your use of third-party services is at your own risk.
Governing Law
These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Delaware. Any disputes arising from these Terms will be resolved in the courts of Delaware Jurisdiction.
Changes to Terms
We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting on our website. Your continued use of the Services after changes are made constitutes your acceptance of the revised Terms.
Phone
6200 Stoneridge Mall Road Suite 300, Pleasanton, California 94588, United States