*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*
If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.
*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*
*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*
*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*
*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*
10202 5th Ave NE Suite 200
Seattle, Washington 98125
I'm a long time client of Boulder Valley CPA and when they joined with Accountability Services, their support only improved. I was so pleased with our tax return process this year. They helped me organize everything and they prepared our taxes efficiently, thoroughly, and quickly. Their advisory services are second to none. I've never felt better about my accounting and finances as I do with Accountability Services. Highly, highly recommend!
The entire team at Accountability Services is user friendly and professional. I was with my previous CPA firm for 10+ years and nervous about the change. It was clear early in my relationship with Accountability Services, that I should have made the change sooner. Beyond customary accounting services, they work diligently to ensure there is a strategic plan in place that is tailored to my specific objectives. I highly recommend Accountability Services and am grateful that I am working with them.
Ernie and the team at Accountability Services handled my affairs with a great deal of care and consideration. My situation was somewhat complicated, yet Ernie took the time to patiently address all of my concerns thoroughly. I?m extremely satisfied with the outcome. I look forward to entrusting my taxes with Accountability Services in the years to come.
Great experience with Ernie Villany and the team at Accountability Services. From tax planning advice, strategic advisory, filing annual returns on time, to the responsiveness of the team - I couldn?t be happier with my choice. Highly reccomended.
Ernie Villany has been doing my taxes for decades and regardless of the type of industry I was in or type of return my special situation required, Ernie provided flawless service. The only thing that topped his professionalism was the calm he created. I always felt no matter what, my situation would be ok. Since he joined accountability services my experience has only got better
Love the service of Accountability Services. It's in their name and they produce. Our return was finished very quickly. Easy to navigate online. Excellent communication. Can't thank the entire team for an excellent job once again. See you next year!
Great service levels and options. Pricing reflects the service provided, and the value add has been great for my personal goals. I would highly recommend their skills and services to any entrepreneur or business that was looking to focus on growth and working on their business.
Highly recommended. Superior services provided across all my needs, both for my household and for my business. Sophisticated insights into the ever-changing tax landscape, but combined with personal attention. Very effective mix.
DO NOT USE! We worked them for almost 10 years with no issues. Last year, they filed our taxes late eve though we sent in our paperwork on time. They filed late due to "software" issues. Led to issues with IRS and cost us $1000 in penalties. Also extremely hard to get ahold of. In addition, their prices increased. Ever since they were bought by a larger group, their customer service has been abysimal.
Over 15 year client with Accountability Services and leaving the firm after they made mistakes, lost employees, tripled the cost for 2024, and Liz sold the company. I referred a ton, I mean a ton of business to Accountability Services over the years. I?m in the process of leaving the firm and wow, wow, wow is it painful. They did make major mistakes on 10+ peoples taxes in the tax year 2022 & 2023 that had to be amended in the negative for my friends and myself. My two star rating is only because of Mary Pa
I?ve been a client of Ernie Villany?s for almost 25 years. He and his business continue to be essential to my own success and peace of mind. I couldn?t imagine being anywhere else.
Was a long time client of this firm. The service slowly deteriorated as their rates went up and up. We recently found out that committed a very substantial 5-figure error on our taxes resulting in a lot of pain for our family and will take a long time to recover from.
I would highly recommend NOT using this firm. It took them until July to finish our return even though our information was provided to them on time. Questions to them ignored. Emails not responded to. Countless excuses. Our name misspelled - really? - from an accounting firm that is paid to be precise? Save yourself months of hassles and go elsewhere.
Best in the business. Ernie has handled everything I?ve needed financially and tax wise for as long as I can remember. Highly recommend.
Great experience with Liz and her team. They truly care and are diligent of not only doing everything neatly and correct, but the individual business is not overlooked. They carry comprehensive knowledge and aver very experienced. I am happy to give them my business.
Fantastic team! Really responsive and collaborative approach for business owners. Can?t say enough good about how they go the extra mile.
Excellent, professional service. Staff is extremely knowledgeable and efficient I have referred many family members, friends, and colleagues.
Excellent tax and advisory services, I have been using them for years.
Amazing service and professionalism.
Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.
Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.
A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.
Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.
Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.
Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.
Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.
Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.
Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.
During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.
Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.
Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.
For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.
Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.
Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.