*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.*
1 Bethany Rd Suite 37
Hazlet, New Jersey 07730
It is always a pleasure to talk with the team at Bedford Tax Services. They are both professional and friendly, which puts me at ease. I truly appreciate their expertise!
Bedford Tax Services is great. They're extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and reliable.
I have been a client of Bedford Tax Services for several years and my taxes have always been handled by Mike Zola. Mike is an extremely competent tax advisor and he has always been proactive and timely in dealing with my taxes. I enthusiastically recommend Bedford Tax Services to anyone in need of tax services.
Been using Bedford Tax Services for 40 plus years. They never miss a beat. From Sheila to Mike, the transition as smooth as can be. Timely and accurate. Fantastic job.
I had some complicated tax details and Michael Zola was great. He advised me on the best decisions to make on my deductions. He was very kind and understanding when I had any questions and was happy to help me out. Also my father has been a client for many years and they are always reliable and fair. You can feel confident that they are good people who really care about their clients and I would definitely recommend Michael to my family and friends. Thank you.
MY father used them for years for his taxes so when he passed on i used them for his final taxes . I found them very helpful and professional. Sheila lieberman made things very easy for me can't thank you enough. I needed some additional help with his estate Sheila wasn't in but Michael Zola got on the phone and gave some advice and help that was unbelievable what a great guy. Bedford tax services is truly top notch service . Thank you again Bob
I have been seeing Michael for years now for all of my tax needs. He has steered me in the right direction every time. I am a local Real Estate Agent and a Photographer and with every step I have gone through with my business, he has been right there. Along with the wonderful advise he has given me professionally and personally about my taxes. I would recommend Bedford Tax Service and Michale Zola to everyone I know.
I Have been using Mike Zola and the staff for years now and have learned a lot more on how to manage my business. Mike is always available and takes his time to explain things in a way that you can comprehend without being an accountant. Would highly recommend Bedford Tax Service! Sam DeMarco
When starting a new business, consulting with an accounting professional is one of the most important steps that any entrepreneur will take. For me, it was important to select someone who is attentive, thorough, and effectively addresses concerns. That CPA is Michael Zola from Bedford Tax Services. Michael understands the challenges that are specific to new entrepreneurs. He will equip you with information needed to understand financial topics that are relevant to you and your business. If you have ques
Michael Zola has been extremely professional, knowledgable and seems to sincerely care about the success of my business. I would highly recommend Bedford Tax Services for business and personal taxes.
Michael was a pleasure to work with. I recommend him for taxes, he was able to accommodate us at the last minute. Thanks Bedford Tax Services!
I have been using Bedford tax for years and they are great! It took me years to find an accountant that is accurate and I?m comfortable with. I would highly remcommend them for both personal and business taxes.
Very thorough, great service, quick turnaround time
Bedford Tax Services- great communication and service. Very accountable (no pun intended) and highly recommend.
I would recommend them highly they allowed me to ease my worries about my tax situation so easy to talk to n never felt rushed even though Michael was kind enough to squeeze me please use them if you need tax services
Very happy with the tax prep services I receive from Bedford Tax. They are prompt, professional and extremely helpful!
What a wonderful company! Everything is always so timely and the response time is amazing. Whenever I have a question Mike is always there to answer them right away for me! Thanks so much for helping me with my taxes and the business taxes every year.
Micheal is the best super fast and easy
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.