Portage couple purchase H&R Block office

14 years ago

Portage couple purchase

H&R Block office

By Kathy McCarty

Staff Writer

PRESQUE ISLE — Just in time for tax season, Jim and Amy Collins, of Portage, have taken over as the new owners of the H&R Block office located on Main Street. To mark the occasion, the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 5.

BU-HRBlockCollins-clr-c-sharpt-02Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
H&R BLOCK UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP — Amy and Jim Collins, of Portage, are the new owners of the H&R Block office in Presque Isle. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Jan. 5 to announce the news. Pictured at the event in front from left are: Gloria Curtis, tax pro; Ginger Nelson, tax pro; Jim and Amy Collins, owners; Nancy Fletcher, member, Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce; and Serena Collins, tax pro. Back row: Daniel Livesey, tax pro; Miles Williams, PIACC president; Liesha Milliard, tax pro; Billie Brodsky, PIACC member; Michele Castle, tax pro; Gail Clukey, PIACC member; Stacy Shaw, PIACC member; Theresa Fowler, executive director, PIACC; Erica Quinn-Easler, Women, Work & Community representative and PIACC member; and Steven Lunn, PIACC member.

 

Much like tax preparation, the couple began putting the paperwork together to purchase the business last year.

“We began the corporation and putting together the necessary paperwork in October and officially took over Jan. 1, 2011,” said Amy Collins.

The Star City business is independently owned and operated.

The facility employs nine, including the Collins’ daughter, Serena Collins.

“We provide a full line of services, including tax preparation, bookkeeping and payroll. Whether you’re a resident or business owner, we’re here to serve your accounting needs,” said Amy Collins, whose experience includes 14 years with the Presque Isle H&R Block division.

“I went from tax preparer to owner. I’ll continue to provide the same quality client services, just with a different title,” she said.

She said it’s the company’s goal to reduce stress during what’s typically the most stressful season for both individuals and company heads.

“We offer our customers a relaxed atmosphere, including a play area for kids,” said Amy Collins. “We’ve also updated the waiting area.”

Highly-qualified staff work to ensure customers receive the best service possible.

“Our employees are highly-trained tax preparers who are dedicated to providing quality service for all our customers,” she said.

The business is open year-round.

Serena Collins said staff members are knowledgeable in the latest tax laws.

“All tax preparers have been trained on the new tax laws that have gone into effect. We have new and exciting ways to make tax season as stress-free as possible for our clients,” said Serena Collins. “The 1040 EZ is free this year — available through Feb. 15. (Additional fees apply with earned income credit and for state tax returns; other conditions may apply. For more information, call 764-6765.) We have an affordable pricing scale for services. If you haven’t experienced us (H&R Block) in a while, come check us out.”

The owners of the family-oriented business also bring with them the knowledge of what it means to do business in The County.

“Jim and I have been self-employed for 30 years. We own Jim’s Home Improvement as well as the Ashland Diner. We’re no strangers to the local communities and know the business and personal needs of those who call the area home,” said Amy Collins. “It’s our goal to provide quality service at an affordable price.”

Business hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 764-6765 or e-mail amy.collins@hrblock.com.