*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.*
4625 E Bay Dr Suite 209
Clearwater, Florida 33764
Badman and Assoc. have done my personal income taxes for many years after my prior accountant retired, and I am very pleased with their work. Justine is very knowledgeable about taxes, and very efficient in creating returns. Year after year I have dropped off my paperwork knowing that she will have a return ready for me that is correct. So I highly recommend Badman and Assoc. for doing your taxes. It really takes a worry off my mind knowing that I have an excellent CPA who keeps me in good standing with the
Wonderful accountant! I'm a newer business owner and I feel in very good capable hands with this company. Justine explains everything so I can fully understand it, and I just really appreciate what she does! She also came highly recommended from a local business that's been around for 40+ years!
Tina and her team do a great job with my income and payroll taxes. She is on top of getting them completed early or on time like clockwork. Everything has always been correct and she even provides advice on how to save me and my business taxes.
Was unhappy with a previous accounting firm. I asked her to take over my personal and business accounting. She happily agreed. She is obviously very knowledgable and beyond being helpful. Would highly recommend her for personal and business accounting needs
If I could rate 100?'s I would. I am a small business owner and Justine aquired my account from the Quick and Easy team and has continued to do my business and personal tax returns ever since. Justine is EXTREAMLY knowledgeable about all the ends and outs of tax law and stays up to date with all of the new laws every year. Justine also has amazing tenacity to go toe to toe with the IRS on your behalf if you ever need be to challenge the IRS to correct any inaccuracies that might arise. I have trusted this g
Justine was very kind when helping me with my situation, she responded quick to my emails and was able to resolve my issue very quick! I would recommend her to everyone.
Just LOVE the whole team at Badman & Associates !! Being a small business owner and having to wear many hats , I am relieved to have Barbara, Gretchen & Justine on my team to handle the Bookkeeping , payroll & all of our taxes for my Company along with all of my personal paperwork . They are always happy to answer questions and greet you with a smile when you stop in !! Highly recommend them to anybody needing a top notch team to handle your Bookkeeping & Accounting ! They have taught me how to be a very or
Happy tax day! I would not recommend this company. I took my tax info to them last spring needing to get caught up on my taxes. 9 months later after zero results they mailed my stuff back to me saying they couldn't do my return.
Justine is a real expert CPA! She really knows her stuff. Excellent service all the way around....Gretchen is a great assistant too! Thanks for you excellent services!!
I'm extremely pleased with Badman & Associates. Any questions or concerns are answered immediately. Emails are being sent as changes occur in the tax, banking, accounting world. Everyone is personable and friendly. Marcia with Suncoast Renovations
Best CPA Place around, have been using them for years, because of all the support Badman & Associates provides we can focus on growing the business.
Excellent Service ! i love Barbara and Gretchen , very professional , i trust Badman & Associates with knowledge and highly recommend them .
These ladies have done all my accounting needs for both my business and are EXCELLENT, always available to answer my questions and concerns.
I wish I could rate it 10 stars !! Great staff really knowledgeable and very friendly. I will come back again no doubt about it Thank you !!
Very helpful staff. Easy to work with.
Very professional. Kind staff.
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.