*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.*
20015 LaGrange Rd Suite 1053
Frankfort, Illinois 60423
I've tried to scroll over so that I can give Kristal and her team 10 stars, but Google just won't allow it !! I have a small business and it has been QUITE the journey finding a good accountant. AEMC was the 5th accountant we looked into and we feel SO blessed we found her. She is SO good at what she does and really knows her stuff !! She gave us advice and explained options to us with ZERO judgement which was very important to us. No one likes to be "scolded" or judged when it comes to money talk. AEMC is
I (Personal/Business) have been a client of AEMC for nearly 3 years and I have found the service to be impeccable. AEMC/Krystal Stevenson and her team has offered tax saving strategies for both my personal and business taxes. She is very knowledgeable and always willing to answer any tax questions I may have. She keeps her clients informed via the quarterly newsletters and her midyear checkup. She has provided training and tools to ensure that our books are properly maintained. I?m very pleased with th
Kristal is such a great resource - she walked my business partner and I through business structures and offered great resources and information tailored to what we needed. She took the time to tailor the conversation to our needs, and was patient and thorough in her responses to our questions.
I've been with this AEMC tax services for more than seven years and have the utmost confidence in the knowledge of the owner and CPA Kristal Anderson! Not only does this firm give sound advice regarding my tax preparation but also gives valuable personal insight when asked! I am a sole caregiver to an aging parent with a small business. I cannot express the relief of being a client with AEMC! Kristal Anderson approach is caring and no nonsense! This is my experience
Kristal has been our CPA for the past few years. She is extremely knowledgeable and up-to-date about current tax laws, tax benefits, etc. She's great for personal taxes, small business accounting, consultant for small businesses, etc. It's her friendless, honesty and warmth that keeps me coming back year after year. She is one of the best, if not the best, and I'm glad that we met when we did.
AEMC Tax Services are very courteous and extremely professional. I have used them for a period of over ten years now. When I first started using their services, I came to them not knowing how I was going to dig myself out of the hole I had gotten myself into. I thought all hope was lost but Ms. Kristal Stevenson immediately went to work on my behalf. Without any hesitation, doubt, or fear Ms. Stevenson assured me that there was hope and light at the end of the tunnel. I'm proud to say that she has definit
AEMC customer service is impeccable. Always prompt in following up, very detail orientented, most of all my returns are prepared within a timely manner. I had my personal and business returns for 2020 & 2021 prepared by AEMC and I was truly satisfied. As my return is very extensive and require paying attention to details. My 2020 had to be amended and I MUST say that AEMC saved me THOUSANDS of dollars.
After a series of personal and professional missteps, I found myself owing the IRS a significant amount of money. The stress was unbelievable. I had a desire to start my own business. AEMC helped me get started. with professional, knowledgeable and thorough services for the entrepreneur, Kristal and her team saved my financial life!
AEMC met and exceeded my expectations for service delivery with the highest level & standards of both quality and excellence. I am an incorporated Small Business entity requiring strict adherence and compliance to the tax laws all while remaining viable in the marketplace and on the competitive landscape. AEMC (Kristal V Anderson) met me/my business square on the playing field...! She afforded me more than the proverbial 'Tax Service'...She rolled her sleeves up and fully embraced the mission/vision of m
AEMC is well trusted and knowledgeable. I truly appreciate the services.
I've been getting my taxes done with Ms. Kristal in her professional business establishment for some years now and I've never had someone that's as thorough, patient, kind, caring and thoughtful as her and her staff. I tell you she knows her stuff and then some, you will not be disappointed with Ms. Kristal Anderson, she's a GEM & I'm glad that God had us to cross paths with each other. Once you've developed a business relationship with her you won't go to anyone else!
I opted to use AEMC start up business package. I have had experience working for two start up businesses from the grown up. So I have had business start up experience. This program was by far essential for me to start my own start up business and its designation between all of the options available. AEMC was well versed in LLC's different options along with the pros & cons of each. AEMC was also collaborative in looking at my current plus future business development in respect to LLC designation type. Not o
First time using AEMC tax service and I have to say that I'm very pleased. Kristal Stevenson was awesome!! I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for their taxes to be prepared. Very knowledgeable, and her customer service is outstanding.
Our tax situation was incredibly complex and AEMC demystified that situation for us. They showed us several different tax related scenarios we could embark on which gave us ample flexibilty to choose what approach best fit our lifestyle and savings preferences! They were so helpful that whenever a friend asks me about tax services, I always refer the friend to AEMC!
AEMC "Kristal" has been providing tax services for me and my family for years! She is extremely knowledgeable about the tax laws! She knows her stuff and has the educational background to back it up! If ever audited, she will guide you through the process effortlessly. I never have to worry or wonder if she has prepared my taxes correctly! Now she is more costly with her fee, but she offers mid year analyses to insure that you are claiming enough or receiving a satisfactory return, which is included in her
I been going to AEMC service for 6 years and never left. I was referred to AEMC and business services by a chase personal banker who told me about the CPA accounting services. They are very professional as well knowledgeable and well educated in every area of business and accounting . Friendly environment kind and professional. I have referred my family and friends to AEMC and will always utilize their services for not only tax and accounting services, but investment planning as well.
Well , I first used AMEC when I opened a barbershop back in 2000. Kristal came in and explained why I needer her Company to do my taxes. AMEC was professional, personable, accurate and accountable. Well things change and I went another route and didn?t really use AMEC for about 10 years. I recently like a week ago needed some Tax help and guess who I reached out to? Yep AMEC and the same qualities I got 10 years ago I got recently. I?m glad I was able to come back and use this awesome company and will be
I've been with AEMC for 10 years and have never been disappointed. Kristal is extremely knowledgeable, current and concerned about your success and growth. I can't imagine going anywhere else!
I have used AEMC services for 10+ years. I honestly wouldn't trust anyone else with my financial needs. Kristal goes above and beyond.
AEMCTAX has been preparing my tax returns for the past 10 years. I truly appreciate the wonderful customer service I receive there as well as the professionalism of the staff. I feel valued as a client & I wouldn't trust anyone else to process my tax return. Thank you AEMCTAX!
I?ve been doing business with AEMC for quite a while first most I think she is a wonderful human, and she actually really care about her clients so if ask me would I recommend her whole heartily I do thank you AEMC
This accounting firm meet all of my needs on a professional level while taking the time to explain everything in detail that I had questions about. Overall, I was very pleased with the service provided. They even requested me to call my husband to make sure our filling status wouldn't hurt either party thereby ensuring we get the best outcome posssible since we were filling seperately.
I would refer Mrs. Anderson to anyone who is need of a certified CPA. She is the best and knowledgeable about tax codes.
I am cdl truck driver I have been coming to AEMC for the last pass 6 years Kristal is whole BEAST!!!! with the taxes.She always gets me Right ever time I go see her Thank You Kristal
I have been with AEMC with for over Five years and Love the service. Always quick and Helpful ... KP
Excellent service. GENUINE concern for the best options for your business. Always Professional.
The absolute best accounting firm around. Worth every penny !!
Krystal is the best. Life saver!!!
Always helpful and knowledgeable and most impressive is availability
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.