*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.*
1364 Smith St
North Providence, Rhode Island 02911
Sean is excellent and down to earth. He explains everything to you. I highly recommend him. Communication is top notch .
This was my first year working with Barrows & Greenfield and I look forward to working with them for many, many years to come on both my business and personal taxes. Every team member I encountered along the way was great, but Sean is outstanding!!! His ability to explain complex tax jargon in a clear, digestible way is unmatched. He answered every question we had thoroughly and with ease, and for our first time ever - took the stress out of tax season, it's such a pleasure to work with this group!
Sean Greenfield at Barrows, Greenfield, & Co is by far the best CPA I have ever worked with! He is responsive, knowledgeable, and is always happy to answer my many, many questions. Not only does Sean provide tax advice and preparation for me personally, he advises and prepares all of my corporate returns and I refer my financial planning clients to him. If you are tired of having a CPA that doesn't return phone calls or that makes you feel like they don't have time for you, then you need to call Sean!
Sean has been my accountant for over 3 years now and has done an excellent job! Being a small business owner, it's very important to have a reliable accountant to provide the right guidance. I always lean on Barrows & Co for advise, which is well worth it. They also do my bookkeeping and payroll, having everything managed by one CPA firm makes life as a business owner smoother and gives me peace of mind. Thanks again, I highly recommend Barrows & Co for any small business that needs accounting services!
Jim Barrows is my goto person for all things tax-related. He's been doing my taxes for years, and I HIGHLY recommend him for even the most complex tax situations. In fact, he thrives on the complexities of tax law and how the laws fit with each individual's or business' situation. I used to do my own taxes and I can't believe the deductions I wasn't aware of!! He and his office are extremely responsive and efficient, providing quick turnaround on tax filings., and the cost is very reasonable (especiall
Jim has done my taxes for many years, and he has always exceeded my expectations. I do not have to be an expert in accounting or taxes, because I know Jim is the expert. He is easy to reach and quick to respond, and a pleasure to work with. He makes doing my taxes much less difficult and painful!
Sean has been a great asset in my business network, he and his team go above and beyond for my growing businesses, they always answer my phone calls, emails, with fast, prompt services. They have gone out of their way to make sure we are taken care of! Thank you!
Ben, has been my accountant for over 40 years. Always come outo top. Need I say more ??
Been with this company for over twenty years.
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.