*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.*
301 W Haywood St
Asheville, North Carolina 28801
This is a great office! Joel Chambers has always been professional and caring! My questions and concerns are always handled very promptly and leave me confident. I would recommend Joel to anyone! The fees are also very reasonable. Thank you!
I have been using Austin CPA for my business and personal accounting for five years, and have been thrilled with their professionalism, communication, ethics, knowledge, and general kindness in all my interactions. I recommend them to anyone. I find them very trustworthy and reliable! Very thankful to have found a great CPA. Makes tax season way less stressful.
I have been working with George and Candice for several years now and I cannot say enough about how helpful, professional, organized, kind, and supportive they are. They have helped me and my husband with our respective small businesses as well as my general family accounting needs and I am so glad to have them on my side.
My wife and I have been with Austin CPA for over 3 years now, and we feel like we have more than an accountant, we also have a financial advisor and a friend. George is super organized and professional, and also fun and easy to talk to. He has a real knack for breaking things down into easy to understand language. Highly recommend!
Although my small business needs and their service was not a match, I was treated with courtesy and kindness on my initial call with Joel Chambers. If a nonclient is treated so well, their clients must receive the same respectful treatment and better. Thank you for the courtesy.
George and the team are on top of things. They always know the changes in tax codes and laws;, they know what is best for your situation; they are quick, always willing to explain all of your tax return and go through your return when it is presented to you for filing. Top this off with a jovial personality in George and a socially -conscious entrepreneurial spirit and you get a CPA firm I highly recommend.
I've used Austin CPA for a number of years. These folks are the best in the business. They are always available to field my questions and explain in detail the why and how of each number in my accounts. They've bent over backwards to correct my mistakes. Most importantly they care about my business and individual needs. I cannot recommend them enough!
Extremely impressed with the entire team at Austin CPA. They are always up to date on the changes in the tax codes, making sure they are fully educated in their field- which is crucial when looking for a good CPA. They are prompt, meticulous and an absolute joy to work with. I recommend Austin CPA with confidence!
I have been a client of George Austin for about eight years. George was recommended to me by a local government finance professional. I have always found George to be 'the best in his field' in the Asheville, NC area. I trust George Austin and his staff 100% and am proud to be associated with Austin CPA.
George at Austin CPA made doing my personal and Corp taxes low stress, quick and easy. He is very good at explaining things in easy to understand terms. I will continue to tell my friends and family to use him and his co-workers. Thanks George!
George has been incredibly helpful, friendly, thorough, and always fast in response. He has saved me time and again from making much bigger headaches with my taxes and books.. HIGHLY recommend!
I've worked with Jonathan Thompson at Austin CPA for 5+ years I think. They are always very prompt and available to answer questions. Very professional group and reasonable rates too.
George is an awesome accountant. Goes above and beyond to make sure you are getting the support and representation you need in the realm of business and personal taxes and in the accounting world. The best accountant I've ever had. :)
I have had a fantastic experience over the years with Jonathan Thompson at Austin CPA. He helped my business transition to an S Corp, and has helped steer the ship ever since. It?s great!
Best accountant we have ever had. Clearly these negative reviews are the friends of their sad competition, because Austin CPA Rocks!! And I have had many accountants over the years. :)
Went to several Cpa services over 20 years since I have been filing my taxes and I have never gotten the service and treatment that I received at Austin cpa. Top notch I highly recommend these folks!! thanks George
Best of the Best CPA Firm! Know their tax stuff! Highly recommended and always great to work with!
These guys know their stuff. They are diligent, meticulous, and precise. They have saved me many $$$ over the years. Highly recommend!
These guys are incredible! Awesome communicators. Want to see you succeed. Fair. They are fantastic.
Best in town, would go to no one else. Very personable and trustworthy, highly recommended!
Would not recommend the Austin CPA team. Go elsewhere please!
Would not trust these people with my accounting. Please go elsewhere!
STOP looking for a CPA. Fire your current one. Go see George!!
Poor customer service. Recommend going elsewhere.
Best in the business!
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.