*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.*
9 Gawain Dr
Manalapan Township, New Jersey 07726
Almira has handled my family?s accounting needs for years & she is simply spectacular. She is very bright, clever & personable. She is always up to date on all tax law changes, nuances, etc & has an incredible way of explaining them so that it?s easy to understand. She?s trustworthy, quick, efficient & very detail oriented. She is a great listener who patiently answers all questions & works with us to form financial strategies that are best suited for our family. With Almira?s high level of expert serv
ALM Accounting & CFOs have provided our company with superior service and expertise. Their team not only helps us to manage all of our financial needs but also provides us with strategic guidance to ensure our business is always headed in the right direction, save cost, and improve margins and net profits. Almira is not only a pleasure to work with, but is also very strategic and forward-looking while addressing the day to day accounting needs. We are a small-medium company and do not necessarily have the
Almira, has worked as an accountant for out two Manhattan hotels for years. Almira restructured our accounting processes so that they were more efficient than ever. Not only is Almira intelligent and diligent, but she is also extremely patient with her clients. I cannot tell you how many times she has been willing to review her work and explain it to those that are not as financially or accounting savy. Her current rates do not do justice to the type of work she puts in. I highly recommend Almira for any s
I have known Almira for over 15 years and retained her accounting services for a mid-size non profit, for a small for profit firm and for my family's tax returns. She is simply spectacular with a wide range of skill sets for small to medium sized corporate and complex family returns. She is a skilled business accountant who can set up a small to medium sized firm and supervise its operation with a very wide set of accountancy skills and business awareness. She is always on time with reports. She is so
Wonderful woman, answered all my questions and charged a very competitive price for what she filed for me. See you next year!
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.