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Brinton Fairchild

Brinton Fairchild

Reviews Summary

The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with most reviewers praising the professionalism, expertise, and responsiveness of the accountant and staff. Many highlight the thoroughness, accuracy, and clear communication, along with a welcoming and patient approach. A few mention exceptional service during audits or complex situations. However, one review notes a miscommunication about filing, and another criticizes the referral-only policy. The majority strongly recommend the firm for both personal and business accounting needs.

About This Listing

Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Healthcare
QuickBooks

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Healthcare
QuickBooks

Contact Information

Address

1720 Florida Ave S

Lakeland, Florida 33803

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 8:30AM-5PM
Tuesday 8:30AM-5PM
Wednesday 8:30AM-5PM
Thursday 8:30AM-5PM
Friday 8:30AM-5PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

Ben Fairchild has been the accountant for our 501C (3) organization for several years and he has done an outstanding job. His monthly and annual reports are comprehensive and very accurate. He is extremely responsive to any questions from our Board of Directors and their needs as to seeing specific costs breakouts, P & L, reimbursements, etc, in his reports. He listens to the needs of his clients and exceeds those needs.

Benjamin and his staff are professional and very helpful. Benjamin is always informed about new changes on tax credits and any pertaining information. He truly enjoys his job and it shows in how passionate he is when speaking about anything related to numbers ?? The place is spotless every time and we have never had any issues. Totally recommend.

We have been clients of Ben at Brinton Fairchild for many, many years. We cannot say enough good things about this company. Knowledge, fast, efficient, and great client care!

We have used Ben for all of our personal accounting and for our two businesses for the past several years now. He is great to work with and is a stand up guy in general. He is always available to answer questions or help us in any way that he can. I would highly recommend Brinton Fairchild to anyone who is looking for an honest, professional accountant that you can trust. Stuart Baldick Stuart's Plumbing

Very courteous group. Ben Fairchild was easy to talk to and explained what and why we were doing things the way we were. I appreciate his patients and the way he talked to me on a level that didn't make me feel beneath him as some cpa's in the past have done.

I have worked with Benjamin Fairchild for many years. He is a wonderful accountant, very professional and responsive. His staff is excellent. I would highly recommend this firm for any accounting needs.

The staff at Brinton Fairchild are all excellent. I trust Ben Fairchild with all of my tax matters implicitly. His vast recall of even the most minute tax detail is impressive. He is fast and efficient. There is no other C.P.A. that I would assign to handle the details of my vast empire.

Ben Fairchild has been my accountant for as long as I can remember. I trust them for my business and personal accounting. I have only good things to say about everyone there.

I am new to the area and called Brinton Fairchild, LLC and spoke with a gentleman named Ben. He could not have been more pleasant and helpful to me, he answered all of my questions and was extremely professional. I also inquired their prices for tax returns and they are very reasonable. I would highly recommend this business and Ben to help anyone that needs their services. I will also be spreading the word of mouth of how honest and helpful this company was to me. Thank you Ben..!!!

I have had a glowing experience With Chuck Brinton from Brinton Fairchild, and give them my highest praises. Prior to finding BF, I had a series of 3 awful accountant experiences in the Miami area in 3 years, one that cost me a significant amount in late penalties. Chuck was quickly able to help me recover, even get me through an audit, all like it was a breeze. I am a physician and Brinton Fairchild has a very good understanding for such accounting matters, reasonable deductions, etc. I feel like BF is the

Mixed review...The actual CPA was very informative and educational which helped throughout the process but when I called to ask if taxes were E-filed to expedite the tax refund ASAP the representative stated yes they have been filed. I scheduled with the representative at that time to pay for tax service later the next week and upon arrival the next week the representative stated that the taxes were NOT E-filed and only could be after signing a release to E-file. Much longer wait on tax refund due to mis i

I have tried others but keep coming back. Mr Fairchild will listen and guide with level thinking. His team is professional and polite.

Everything you could want in a CPA. Honest, knowledgeable, accessible, and a pleasure to deal with! I highly recommend them!

Best accountant we have ever utilized. Definitely recommend.

They only take referrals from other clients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.

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