*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.*
2901 Riva Trace Pkwy Suite 104
Annapolis, Maryland 21401
Annapolis Accounting has been doing the taxes for the 501(c)3 for which I had served as president and my personal taxes for years. They are a great group to work with...fast, efficient, and accurate. Would highly recommend their services.
I have always found Annapolis Accounting Services exceptionally dependable, professional, expedient, helpful and always very, very accurate in their accounting practices and reporting. I have been using them for years and will continue to do so. I am exceptionally pleased with their services and would highly recommend them to everyone.
Annapolis Accounting provides excellent service! It is such a pleasure to work with people who display such an exemplary work ethic, willingness to help and ability to solve problems. Prompt, courteous and efficient are three words I associate with Annapolis Accounting. Thank you. JudyWink Executive Director Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center.
We've been clients of Chris and his team for about 20 years now. We were both just starting out in business at that time. They've always gone the extra mile and we're very pleased with them. Highly recommended!
Great service. Been using them for the last 5 years for personal and business accounting, taxes and payroll. Chris and his staff are a great value for our company and will be for yours too. Highly recommend.
The team at Annapolis Accounting has always been knowledgeable and professional when we need their assistance with all things accounting related. We have worked with the team for over 15 years and have always been happy with the service!
We have been with them since we started. They have been able to help make us make educated business decisions as we've grown and have had great communication along the way. We refer them to anyone running a business or needing accounting services.
Multiple errors in taxes that were filed by AAS caused penalties and interest to rack up without me knowing for months. No attempt to help after the fact and no accountability from anyone on their staff.
They are very personable, do a great job with payroll, and get taxes done promptly.
Very friendly staff! They take great care of us every 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.