Privacy Policy

A legal disclaimer

Effective Date: [Insert Date, e.g., July 1, 2025

Introduction

Stearns Bookkeeping is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal and financial information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and disclose information when you use our bookkeeping services, visit our website at [insert website, e.g., www.yourbookkeeping.com], or interact with us via email, phone, or other channels. This policy applies to all clients, website visitors, and users of our services.

By using our services or website, you agree to this Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please refrain from using our services. We may update this policy periodically, and changes will be posted on this page. Your continued use after updates constitutes acceptance.

Privacy Policy - the basics

1. Information We Collect

We collect information to provide and improve our bookkeeping services. The types of information include:

a. Personal Information

Identity Data: Full name, date of birth, Social Security Number (if required for tax purposes), or other identifiers.
Contact Data: Email address, phone number, billing address, or mailing address.
Financial Data: Bank account details, credit card information (processed securely via third-party providers), financial records, invoices, tax documents, and payroll data necessary for bookkeeping.
Business Data: Company details, transaction records, and other accounting data you provide for our services.

b. Automatically Collected Information

Technical Data: IP address, browser type, device information, operating system, and website usage data (e.g., pages visited, time spent) collected via cookies or web beacons.
Usage Data: Details of your interactions with our services, such as service requests, communications, or preferences.

c. Information from Third Parties

We may receive data from third-party partners (e.g., accounting software like QuickBooks, payment processors) or public sources to support our services.

2. How We Collect Information

We collect information:

Directly from You: When you provide it through forms, emails, phone calls, client portals, or during onboarding (e.g., submitting financial records).
Automatically: Via cookies, web beacons, or analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) when you visit our website.
From Third Parties: Through integrated platforms or service providers (e.g., banks, payroll services) with your consent.

3. How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

Provide bookkeeping services (e.g., managing accounts, preparing financial statements, tax filings).Process payments securely through third-party providers. Communicate with you about your account, service updates, or inquiries. Improve our website and services by analyzing usage data. Comply with legal obligations (e.g., tax reporting, audits).Prevent fraud or unauthorized access. Send marketing communications (with your consent, where required).

4. How We Share Your Information

We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may share it:

With Service Providers: Third parties (e.g., payment processors, cloud storage providers) who assist in delivering our services, bound by confidentiality agreements.
For Legal Purposes: To comply with laws, respond to subpoenas, or protect our rights, safety, or property.
Business Transfers: In case of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, your data may be transferred with notice.
With Your Consent: For purposes you explicitly approve.

5. Data Security

We use industry-standard measures (e.g., SSL encryption, secure servers) to protect your information. Only authorized personnel access your data, and we limit disclosure to what’s necessary. However, no system is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security. You share information at your own risk.

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies to enhance your website experience, track usage, and improve functionality. You can manage cookie preferences via your browser settings, but disabling cookies may limit website access.

7. Your Rights

You may have rights depending on your jurisdiction (e.g., under CCPA, GDPR):

Access: Request a copy of your data.
Correction: Update inaccurate information.
Deletion: Request we delete your data, subject to legal obligations.
Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from marketing or limit data sharing (e.g., for California residents, opt-out of data sales).
Do Not Track: We may not respond to browser “Do Not Track” signals, but you can opt out of behavioral tracking via our website settings.

8. Children’s Privacy

Our services are not intended for individuals under 18. We do not knowingly collect data from children under 16. If we learn such data was collected, we will delete it promptly.

9. Data Retention

We retain your information only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined or as required by law (e.g., tax records for 7 years). When no longer needed, we securely delete or anonymize it.

10. Third-Party Links

Our website may link to third-party sites (e.g., accounting software). We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Review their policies before sharing data.

11. SMS Communications

If you opt-in to SMS, we may send service-related messages (e.g., appointment reminders, document requests). Message frequency varies. Reply STOP to opt-out or HELP for assistance. We do not share SMS consent for marketing purposes.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy to reflect changes in our practices or legal requirements. We will notify you via email or website posting. Check this page periodically.

13. Contact Us

For questions, concerns, or to exercise your rights, contact us at:
Stearns Bookkeeping
6405 61st Court. Vero Beach. FL 32967
lanastearns1@icloud.com
772-925-4117