*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.*
1408 S Central Ave
Marshfield, Wisconsin 54449
Ryan was outstanding! He was knowledgeable, professional, and quick when completing our taxes. We even had some things out of state and he was still finished in less than a week. He goes above and beyond and continues to easily answers any financial questions I send his way. Definitely recommend Ryan and Baer Accounting and Tax to anyone! We are lucky to have found him!
My husband and I have been using Baer Accounting & Tax for our income taxes for a couple years now and would never go back to doing it ourselves. Ryan and his staff make the process incredibly easy, reminding us of what we need before the season starts and walking us through what he's done before submitting. Ryan was also really helpful in advising us about making contributions to our IRAs with respect to the effect on our taxes. We highly recommend the services of Baer Accounting & Tax.
Ryan is very knowledgeable. He was incredibly helpful when I started my business. He walked me through the start-up and ongoing processes. I feel confident he is following tax laws and brings new information to my attention right away. He is always available to answer any questions I have all year round. I've recommended him to all my friends.
Ryan has helped us with our tax returns for several years, and we have been very satisfied. We appreciate his expertise in quickly sorting through our special circumstances and helping us be confident that everything is filed accurately. Thank you for your services and advice!
I enjoy working with Ryan! He is extremely knowledgeable as well as approachable. He listens to your concerns and is timely in getting back to you with answers. He is truly a professional in his field. I would highly recommend his business!
Leaving 3 messages in the last 6 months and promises of "someone will get back to me" isn't a great experience. Just be honest if you're not interested in conducting business. Definitely not mistaken. It was my husband calling and it's on his call history.
I have been using Baer Accounting for our tax filing the past three years. His service has been very thorough and professional. We have what I consider rather complex finances, with multiple investment accounts and non-traditional assets. Pricing is fair and in line with what I have encountered in the past.
I appreciate the checklist Baer Accounting sends out prior to tax time. Great reminder for what to look for in the mail and leads to an accurate tax filing. Very positive experience!
Ryan is very knowledgeable, thorough and efficient. It?s been a pleasure doing business with Ryan for the past three years.
Super nice. Super fast. Super reasonable. Highly recommend. Very nice and easy to talk to.
Never seem to be open , called left message, never heard back.
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.