C. E. Thorn, CPA, PLLC

C. E. Thorn, CPA, PLLC

Reviews Summary

The overwhelming consensus is extremely positive, with nearly all reviewers praising the accounting firm for its professionalism, responsiveness, and expertise. Clients consistently highlight quick response times, deep knowledge, and personalized service that simplifies business accounting. Many emphasize long-term trust, reliability, and the team's ability to make complex financial matters stress-free. A single neutral review notes limited services for individual tax preparation. Small business owners particularly value the firm's meticulous attention to detail and role in supporting growth.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Tax Preparation
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
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

Bookkeeping
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Tax Preparation
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
QuickBooks

Contact Information

Address

3725 National Dr #225

Raleigh, North Carolina 27612

Hours

Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday 9AM-5PM
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday 9AM-5PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

I?ve been working with these guys for years. They helped my business fix a lot of issues from a previous accountant. I?ve never had a single issue with them. Working with them was one of the best decisions for my business and I would recommend them to anybody!

Mr. Thorn and the team are amazing! They?re super welcoming and always make you feel at ease. I really appreciate how available they are to answer any questions, which has made the whole accounting process so smooth and stress-free. If you want someone who knows their stuff and makes your life easier, Mr. Thorn is the one to go to!

We are so thankful we found Carson! As small business owners, we are busy running our business. We have tremendous peace of mind outsourcing our monthly accounting and annual tax returns (personal & our two businesses) to Carson and his team. We've worked with a number of other CPA's, but the experience was impersonal and the work rushed. Carson is the best. He's accessible when we have questions, and we can always count on a thorough, honest answer, and guidance with our best interest at heart. Did I menti

Carson and Rue have been positively wonderful!!! As a small business owner, I had been struggling with the accountant that I was using. I decided to make a switch to Carson Thorn CPA and I knew instantly that I had found the ideal accountant. They are extremely knowledgeable, thorough, timely with responses and meticulous!! All the characteristics to help a small business like mine run smoothly!!! I could not be happier and am extremely thankful for all the help they have given me.

Carson and Rue are a pleasure to work with. They are responsive and patient with all of my questions! They have been invaluable in helping me navigate the accounting side of my small business, freeing me up to concentrate more on expanding and meeting the needs of my customers. I highly recommend them for your small business accounting!

Carson Thorn has been our CPA, both personal and business, for almost three years. He is quick to respond to my questions, and gives his honest advice. Roo, and team are amazing as well! They are always bright and welcoming. They even pick up/deliver our business taxes every month, which is such a time saver!

In addition to being very nice and kind people, Carson and Rue are professional, organized, consistent, and responsive - everything that you would want from an accounting firm handling your small business. The personalized service that we have received sets this firm apart from the others. Carson and Rue have helped us to grow because we are confident that the details of our accounting and financials are taken care of. Thank you so much!

Carson Thorn CPA is by far the best CPA firm! Carson and Rue are very professional, quick to respond to questions and concerns. After dealing with a CPA firm prior to Carson Thorn he was able to help our small business get back on track with our accounting and taxes. Look no father this is the firm to go with!

Hi, everyone looking for a new CPA! I'm a very happy client telling you to look no further. I moved here in July of 2016 to start my first business (specifically, a hair salon). As a Penn State graduate with a degree in accounting, I knew the importance of having a second set of eyes on my monthly financial reporting and tax preparation. I chose Mr. Thorn based on fantastic reviews left by other happy clients, and now I joined the club! First of all, I was absolutely delighted to learn that he accepts

We have worked with Carson for years and he is the best. Carson is very organized, thorough and his response time is the fastest I have ever seen!! I mean I thought we were fast , but Carson is faster! The best CPA in the Triangle!

Carson is a genius when it comes to accounting; I use him for all my business accounting needs, and he's really reliable. His staff is nice and responsive, and everyone is very professional. I highly recommend his services.

I've been using Carson for a few years now. He and his team is very very dedicated and are always prompt, exact, and extremely accurate. All of the traits you want for your CPA. Between my personal business, 10-99s and investments they handle it all. Highly recommend.

We love the accounting services we get from Carson & Ru! I can?t imagine having to do all this on my own as a business owner. They are quick to respond to any questions I have and we are so happy we use them for all our accounting and tax needs. I highly recommend them!!!

Carson Thorn has been doing my corporate and personal taxes for the past 8 to 10 years. Often times I am out of the country and he takes care of everything. Based on prior experiences, finding Carson was a stroke of good luck. Great work and a pleasant person. Thank you, Carson!

Carson and Rungsinee have always done a great job with me and my business. Any time I have questions, Carson is near-immediate in his responses, which is very much appreciated. Highly recommended!

I've had several CPA's and out of all of them, Carson is by far the best. He is very diligent and keeps on top of everything. He is very knowledgeable, but also personable. Most of all, he is very fairly priced. You are in good hands with Carson.

Between Carson and Rue, they have been extremely helpful and beneficial for my business. They are easy to get a hold of when I have questions about things, very friendly, and explain everything along the way (which is an important thing to me, so I can be a better business owner). I would highly recommend them for your small business!

We are starting our 3rd year with Carson as our accountant. We are very pleased with his services as our business and personal accountant. He is always very friendly, knowledgeable and prompt. Rue is awesome too!

Highly recommend! Not only are they incredibly competent and forward thinking - their customer service is outstanding. Every interaction with Rue and Carson, they give you their full attention and are a 100% focused on your business.

I have been using C.E Thorn CPA services for over 15 years. He is always on point and always available for your questions. Believe me, the most important function of your business is an experienced accountant and this is what Carson provides. I highly recommend this services for your business.

Carson and Rue are always friendly, helpful, and quick to answer any questions I have. I'm new to being a small business owner, and they've made the transition very smooth when it comes to my accounting and taxes. I can't recommend them enough!

Carson and his team are amazing. They are always there to answer our questions for our small business, and always willing to help. We appreciate them leading us in the right direction with accounting and tax questions.

Carson and Ru are great to work with! They quickly respond to any questions we have, are very helpful and provide a great service! Thank you!

Such great service available everytime I call answer all my questions and are very knowledgeable and nice

The service at Carson Thorn CPA is simply unmatched! They are extremely proactive and provide a peace of mind knowing you are in the best hands. I would highly recommend!

Carson is fantastic to work with. He is extremely helpful, considerate and takes the time to communicate thoroughly. I highly recommend him.

One of the best the area! We have been using Carson and his team for many years and have never been disappointed in their level of service. Thank you Carson for all you do!

Carson is amazing at his job and we trust him year after year with our Sub Chapter S Corporate tax return. Thank you for being so reliable. You are awesome. Thank you.

You wont find a more trustworthy CPA than Carson Thorn! He is always looking out for his clients and is the best in the business.

Knowledgeable, prompt and easy to work with. We could not be happier with our choice of accountant for our small business. Signergy is well supported by Carson Thorn, CPA.

I called this office to find out a price estimate for tax preparation and was told this was only for businesses that use this company. This is not for individual tax preparation. It was nice that they referred me to a CPA, but they referred me to a Cpa by the name of Gwen who said she is not taking individual tax preparations at this time and that her prices started at 500.00. This review was written as an FYI, not so much as a complaint.

Carson and Rue are a dynamic duo! Best firm in Raleigh. They won?t steer you wrong.

Very Professional team. Carson has provided valuable insight that has been so helpful for my business.

I am very happy to have found Mr Thorn and his team! I emailed a question, after hours, and he responded right away. He called me, and gave great advice.

If you have a business and want a smooth, professional experience, choose Carson and his team. They are incredible.

I've been using this firm for 3 or 4 years now for our small business and personal returns. They are organized, accurate, thorough, down-to-business, and personable. Highly recommend this firm.

Amazing! He was quick, efficient and very responsive. We are thrilled we found Carson.

The best CPA?s in Raleigh! Very professional and the customer service is top notch! I would highly recommend their services!

Carson is a fantastic CPA! He is truly dedicated to his clients!

This was our first year working with Carson and we were very pleased. Excellent service. :)

I have not even secured services with CE Thorn yet and am already very impressed the professionalism and attentiveness I received during my initial phone call!

You couldn't find a better CPA firm in Raleigh! We love working with Carson and Rue!

Fantastic to work with, really gave some great guidance and consultation for my business. If great service is important to you then you should work with them.

We have been using Carson Thorn CPA for years and would highly recommend!

I had a spectacular experience working with Carson!

Would not recommend this place if you are looking for guidance in accounting. If you are looking for a bookkeeper this is the place for you.

Always quick in responding to questions, friendly staff.

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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