*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.*
4938 Brownsboro Rd Suite 201
Louisville, Kentucky 40222
Brad and Steve did an excellent job helping us plan for retirement. Their expertise in financial planning paid for the fee after the first visit! They were very easy to talk to and were able to give us sound financial advice while taking into account our specific retirement goals. I highly recommend them!
I definitely will recommend using Accredited Wealth Management. I've been extremely pleased with their services. Steve and Shawn have catered to all of my needs and have always been available when I've needed anything. I always receive individual attention and they set up a plan based on my unique needs. They always have my best interest in mind and give me a comprehensive review. I have received great advice for matters outside of investment assets.
As a practicing attorney in Louisville, I know that Shawn and the team at AWM will take great care of my clients who need the services of a financial advisor. Shawn and Steve are very knowledgeable fiduciaries. They provide the utmost care in managing assets and responding to each client's individual needs.
I have worked with Shawn and Steve for many years. I am not just a client with Accredited, they treat me and my family as friends and I think of them as the same. I know that AWM has my best interest in mind with any decision that they make regarding my investments. They are constantly striving to manage my long term financial wealth, not just their immediate profit or commission. Very highly recommended for anybody who wants to grow wealth and ensure long term success in all financial aspects of their li
Accredited Wealth Management has done a stellar job of managing my portfolio since 2008 During this time AWM has kept me abreast of the market tribulations and has been diligent in getting back to me with answers to any questions. The team at AWM is extremely knowledgeable, excellent fiduciaries, true professionals and very caring. I feel AWM has my best interest at heart. I am in very good hands and highly recommend AWM.
The team at AWM sets the standard for what great advising services should be like. I came to them after working with an unresponsive, opaque advisor, and they have done nothing but take good care of me since. Even though I'm younger and don't yet have as big of a portfolio size as some investors, they treat me just the same and make me a priority. I can always expect a quick response from someone on the team. They're never too busy to help. They're also just good people who are easy to talk to, no matter yo
The professionals at Accredited Wealth Management have given us the personal financial experience we have been looking for. They were able to provide customized meetings (both online and in person) to work into our busy schedules. When reviewing our retirement options, they allowed plenty of time to answer all of our questions. We highly recommend this firm.
I am not a savvy investor by any means but Steve and Shawn at AWM have given me the personal attention that match my unique needs. I know they deal with high end/ and lower end (me) clients, but they still take the time to care for all clients equally. They have the experience and knowledge to assist with all kinds of investment plans and portfolios. They have always worked for my best interest and have never steered me in the wrong direction. I feel like I can call them or ask them any question or con
We love working with Accredited Wealth Management. We interviewed lots of folks and are so glad we chose AWM. They have done a phenomenal job for us! They individualized our portfolio to match our unique circumstances. As fiduciaries, they always work in the best interest of their clients. Highly recommend.
I have been with AWM for about 6 months. During this time I have found Steve and those who work with him, to be very giving of their time. They are very down to earth, unlike advisors I've found in major corporations. They have coached me in making wise investment decisions which are in my best interest. They are true Fiduciary?s. I can highly recommend anyone, no matter the size your portfolio, to take time to learn if AWM can help you in investing and planning your financial future. Bill R.
Accredited Wealth Management provides excellent investment and retirement advice. Steve Giaocobbe and Sean Clark and their team of asset management specialists are true professionals. The individualized wealth management service they have provided my family has been consistently amazing. AWM is a remarkable combination of trustworthiness and knowledge. Highly recommended!
Accredited Wealth Management has changed my life. Steve and Shawn actually listened to me about what I wanted to achieve for my financial future. They reviewed and studied my small financial portfolio and how much I was being charged by my previous wealth management company. I have saved big time and they are always there for me. Just take time to call and meet with them. I promise you won't be sorry. Top notch in all ways.
Shawn and Steve are fiduciaries who genuinely care about your financial future and helping you determine what steps to take in your best interest. Finally finding someone knowledgeable, trustworthy, *and* approachable is a huge relief for me! Update: Shawn and everyone at AWM are still awesome.
Steve and each member of his team exceeds expectations. They are knowledgeable, efficient, accommodating, and forward thinking; great communicators and excellent planners who deliver results to meet your needs. For over 2 years I searched for the best financial management team for me. I found it! I highly recommend them.
Shawn and Brad are excellent financial advisors. They are very trustworthy and honest and want to help you make the best financial decisions based on your goals and lifestyle. They are friendly, easy to talk with, and are willing to explain all aspects of wealth management that you may have questions about. We have used other financial advisors in the past and haven't felt that they were truly in it to give us the best options for us. These guys are. I highly recommend their services.
Would highly recommend the entire team at Accredited Wealth Management, first meeting with them was over a year ago I was introduced to the entire staff. The information and explanations they gave me was invaluable. After reviewing other companies, I decided to become a customer, that has been over 6 months ago, no regrets!
I have been a client of AWM since 2008. I have been happy with their management of my accounts. They listen and are responsive. I have full confidence in their integrity and competence. I am more than pleased with my returns. I trust them and find them easy and pleasant to deal with.
The team at AWM is absolutely fantastic! Not only are they professional and competent, they truly care about your financial goals. I couldn't be happier than to have them as my financial advisors.
My husband and I recently utilized the services of Accredited Wealth Management (AWM), Louisville, KY to assist us in the areas of financial management and outside investment assets, specifically 401 (k) investment. Having two young children (future college expenses), significant student loans, and the typical feeling of ?where does all of our money go each month?; we felt that it would be very helpful to seek some professional advice. We were not disappointed in doing so as Shawn and Steve at AWM set us
Accrediated Wealth Management has been a god send to my wife and myself. Neither of us knew what we should do about financial investments and what was best for our retirement future. The team at ACM not only set us up with a successful investment plan but have developed a personal connection with regular details about our accounts and a trust we never felt with other firms. They are truly part of our family ! Thanks guys! Toni and Mike
I have known Shawn Clark for several years. He is the only professional I trust unconditionally to manage my financial needs. I know he would never steer me wrong and has my best interests in mind. I recommend Accredited Wealth Management to anyone looking for fiduciaries who will have a personal interest in you - you will not be kust a name in a database.
Shawn and Steve have done an outstanding job handling my portfolio. They have tailored a plan that suits me best for long-term financial success. I know that if I have any questions or concerns I can reach them at anytime.
I cannot speak highly enough about Steve Giacobbe and his team. Steve earned my trust during our very first conversation 5 years ago and I now consider him as part of my inner circle of advisors--someone whose advice and expertise I count on for financial decision-making. Steve brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and thought leadership to bear on his client relationships. Add to that he's a genuinely kind person and an excellent communicator. You can't ask for a better combination of skills in your fin
Shawn and company have been great from day one at providing and implementing the personalized investment strategy necessary for my long-term goals. I strongly recommend Accredited.
AWM takes the time to learn your needs, goals and expectations. Provides customized plan for each individual... highly recommend them!
I have been so blessed to have these guys in charge of my investment portfolio. I have been amazed to see just how much care they put into overseeing my money and the effort they put into making sure that I am continually updated regarding the market and my account. I would highly recommend these guys if you are looking for knowledgeable and friendly investors who will care for your money as if it was their own.
I am very confident in the advice and information AWM has given me over the years. I trust them and highly recommend them to anyone!
AWM has provided professional consultation with insightful communication and well written document and charts explaining complex market information. I have been pleased with their service.
I worked with Brad and Shawn who were amazing, they gave us good advise and answered our questions in a timely manner. Also the price for their services was reasonable. Would highly recommend.
Always there and happy to help when ever I call I am happy to have them as my money manager. I highly recommend them!
Would highly recommend Shawn Clark. Does a spectacular job and very professional
Highly recommend the AWM team!
Only place to invest.
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.