Privacy Policy for Empire 360 (“we,” “us,” or “our”)

1. Introduction
We understand that you’re trusting us with sensitive information when you use our services such as tax preparation, business formation, fingerprinting, and notary. We take that responsibility seriously. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, disclose, and protect personal information you provide through our website (theempire360.com) and related services.

2. Scope
This policy applies to information collected:
• When you visit our website.
• When you use our service intake forms, book appointments, submit documents, or otherwise engage our services.
• When you communicate with us by email, phone, or other means in connection with our services.

3. Information We Collect
We collect personal information in two categories:

a) Information you provide to us directly
Examples may include (depending on the service):
• Name, address, phone number, and email address.
• Social Security Number (SSN), Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), Employer Identification Number (EIN).
• Date of birth, driver’s license or state ID number.
• Bank account or routing information for direct deposit or payments.
• Business formation documents such as entity name, ownership, and business address.
• Fingerprint service data or background check information.
• Notary information such as sign-in or consent forms and ID verification data.

b) Information collected automatically when you use our site
• IP address, browser type, device identifiers, pages visited, and time and date of visit.
• Cookies and similar tracking technologies.
• Non-personal information that helps us understand how you use the site.

4. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
• Provide the services you request.
• Process and file tax returns or business formation documents.
• Verify identity and perform required compliance checks.
• Communicate with you about your account and services.
• Improve and maintain our website and operations.
• Comply with legal or regulatory obligations as a professional service provider.
• Send marketing and service updates (with your consent if required).

5. Information Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell personal information. We may share it only when necessary:
• With third-party service providers who perform tasks on our behalf (such as software hosting, document storage, identity verification).
• With government agencies or tax authorities when required by law.
• With your consent or at your direction.
• To detect or prevent fraud or security issues.
• If our business is sold or reorganized, in which case we will provide notice before any transfer of information.

6. Data Retention and Storage
We retain your information as long as needed to provide services and comply with legal requirements. When no longer needed, we securely destroy or anonymize it.
We use encryption and access controls to protect data and restrict who can view sensitive information.

7. Your Rights and Choices
You may have rights to:
• Access or request a copy of the personal information we hold about you.
• Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information.
• Request deletion of personal data (subject to legal requirements).
• Opt out of marketing communications.
• Set browser preferences to limit cookies or tracking, though this may affect site functionality.

If you are a California resident, you may have additional rights under state law.

8. Children’s Privacy
Our services are not directed to children under 18. We do not knowingly collect information from children without parental consent. If you believe we have done so in error, contact us to request deletion.

9. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We may use cookies or similar tools to:
• Remember your preferences.
• Understand site usage for analytics.
• Deliver marketing communications where permitted.
You can adjust your browser settings to refuse cookies, though some features may not function properly.

10. Security
We maintain administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect your information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss. We also follow industry standards for data security and IRS guidelines for taxpayer data protection.

11. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this policy periodically. When we do, we will post the new version on our website and update the effective date above. Your continued use of our website means you accept those changes.

12. Contact Us
If you have questions or concerns about this policy or our data practices, please contact:

Empire 360
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (765) 533-6179
Address: 115 W Mulberry St., Kokomo, IN 46901