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C. Carpenter CPA, PLLC

C. Carpenter CPA, PLLC

Reviews Summary

The overwhelming majority of reviews praise Crystal Carpenter's accounting services, highlighting her professionalism, expertise, and responsiveness. Clients appreciate her personalized approach, accessibility throughout the year, and ability to simplify complex tax matters. Many note her exceptional attention to detail, proactive guidance, and trustworthiness for both business and personal finances. While one negative review cites poor communication, most describe her as going above and beyond, with strong recommendations for her knowledgeable, efficient, and friendly service. Long-term clients particularly value her consistent quality and team support.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
QuickBooks
ADP

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

Bookkeeping
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
QuickBooks
ADP

Contact Information

Address

8520 Six Forks Rd Suite 202

Raleigh, North Carolina 27615

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Customer Reviews

I started working with Crystal early this year, and the experience has been nothing short of fantastic. She is creative, responsive, and incredibly easy to talk to. Crystal has brought a fresh perspective to my accounting needs (both business and personal), always finding efficient and innovative solutions. Her attention to detail and proactive approach have given me confidence and peace of mind with my finances! I highly recommend Crystal to anyone looking for an accountant who is not only knowledgeable bu

I've been working with Crystal for two years after she came highly recommended, and she has been exceptional. She has greatly helped with my finances, offering expert advice and guidance. Crystal is knowledgeable, professional, and responsive. I highly recommend her to anyone in need of a top-notch accountant. Thank you, Crystal!

As the owner of a small local business, tax accounting simply isn't my expertise. Yet Crystal takes a stressful time of year and makes it a breeze. She is not only competent and up to date on the latest tax changes, she's also accessible not only at tax time, but for prompt answers to questions during the year that may relate to tax preparation and all my Quick Book updates. Highly recommend her services.

Most amazing Accountant on the planet! We have used C.carpenter CPA for many years, and Crystal and her team always go way above and beyond to take great care of all our financial needs. Both business and personal, they can do it all. Would never trust anyone else to handle our finances. I was referred to them, and I have referred many more. You can?t go wrong. Definitely the best

I?ve been a client of C. Carpenter CPA for the past few years! Crystal Carpenter came as a referral from a friend, and I?m so glad I called her. I was looking for a CPA that handled small business. As we know when we start any business there is a lot to learn and navigate. Crystal and Josh Carpenter are ABSOLUTELY wonderful to work with, kind and very knowledgeable. Crystal and her team always go way above and beyond to take great care of all our financial needs. Both business and personal, they can do it

So glad I met Crystal and am able to work with her. She does both my personal and business tax returns, helps with tax strategy, and is always on the ball. It's imperative to have a CPA that you can fully trust and actually enjoy working with. Crystal is the bomb personally and professionally!

Please do not use this "cpa". You will regret it. If we could give her negative 100 stars, we would. Crystal Carpenter showed no regard for us, as her then existing clients, when we had reached out to her attempting to simply schedule an appointment. We made numerous efforts to reach out to her, and she did not respond. She didn't value our time or us as people. Overall, she does not value customers. In the span of 2 months between my husband and me, we attempted to reach out to Crystal a total of (5 time

Crystal is by far the best accountant around for any personal/business needs. Crystal has managed our accounts for many years and is always available for any questions or concerns that you have. Unlike other accountants Crystal offers a personal touch to her services and treats us with professionalism, respect and always works in our best interest guiding us along the way of the tax field. Highly recommend!

Crystal has been taking care of all accounting for my business now for over 3 years. The level of professionalism she provides is unsurpassed. Great value for the service and highly recommend.

C Carpenter CPA has done my family?s taxes for years and we are very happy with her services. I highly recommend them and will continue doing business with C Carpenter CPA.

After working with Crystal and her team for several years, I can say they are amazing. They provide the support that my growing business needs.

I have been working with Crystal for years and would not trust my business with anyone else. Super professional and fast to respond. Highly recommend!

April 2022. This was my 1st visit. ?Crystal proved to be an excellent CPA representative. ?Excellent communication. ?Good expectations set. ?I felt valued. ?Office is very clean.

Highly recommended CPA, Crystal and her team go above and beyond.

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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