*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.*
2730 US-1
St. Augustine, Florida 32086
Great place! Super friendly staff and our taxes were done on time. I didn't feel rushed when we met with Jill, the CPA, and she took her time with us. Glad we found a great accountant!
Jill has been a great help during tax season and beyond! From answering questions while purchasing equipment to prepping for tax returns - Jill has been great!
Jill is fabulous! She's professional, knows her stuff, works hard and stays on top of everything. I highly recommend her. A+
Jill and the professionals at Calhoun & Atwood are excellent accountants. Excellent customer service, knowledgeable and great results. These Accountants really know their business. Excellent results from my multi state filing!
Jill is an amazing Accountant that understands small business and their owners. Her knowledge base is astounding.
Jill is an awesome accountant who can decipher all of the tax complications. She has provided many years of great service to my father, stepmother, and now me. If you need tax help, send your business over to Calhoun & Atwood, CPA. I'd give them 10 stars if Google would let me give them more than five stars. This accounting practice is EXCEPTIONAL.
Jill is such an amazing person to work with. She listened to all my needs and was able to answer my questions.
Calhoun & Atwood provides excellent service to all of their clients, I highly recommend using them for your tax needs!
Calhoun & Atwood are true professionals! They?re responsive and really help you every step of the way! I highly recommend!
Jill and her staff are knowledgeable, professional, and welcoming. I highly recommend them.
Calhoun and Atwood provided me with excellent tax preparation services. They were professional, responsive, and thorough in their work. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of accounting or tax assistance.
Jill is amazing! I had tax problems from a business partnership and went to several other accounts with no resolution. Jill got everything resolved and I have never been to another account since.
Been very happy with Calhoun & Atwood over the past 20 years! Thanks Jill!
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.