*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 N Wacker Dr Suite 4075
Chicago, Illinois 60606
I have had an extremely positive and valuable experience working with Chicago Partners. My financial advisors and planners are not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely care about my individual well-being, making them a pleasure to work with. The team encourages me to ask any and all clarifying questions regarding my personal finances, budgeting, and investing. They ensure that I have a comprehensive understanding of the process, which alleviates any feelings of uncertainty or confusion. Additionall
Rob is great to work with and my family has trusted him for years. We followed him when he moved over to Chicago Partners Wealth Advisors and our satisfaction with him and the staff has remained outstanding. We highly recommend Rob and Chicago Partners Wealth Advisors as a whole!
Terrible experience. After an initial mistake on which accounts to work with, I still tried to work with them. I did want more assurances on strategy to feel confident we were on the same page. I did this as I was setting up accounts at Schwab. For whatever reason, they just didn't answer my questions. Too busy I guess. This is an issue with multiple middle men involved for Private products. My advisor said - "this has been the worst onboarding experience with an RIA partner I've had in my career at TD/Schw
First, I would like to address the fact that someone rated this firm with one star and I was in shock of that rating! Please look at Chicago Partners response to that review before taking that review into consideration. Now, for my honest assessment as a REAL client of Chicago Partners. I have been with CP for 6 years and each and every time I have an interaction with them I am thoroughly impressed and thankful they are my partner in wealth management. The industry of wealth management has evolved and C
Chicago Partners Wealth Advisors: A Disappointing Choice for Responsible Investing As an investor seeking a reliable Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm, my experience with Chicago Partners has been nothing short of disappointing. In this review, I will outline some glaring concerns that have come to light during my time with this firm, shedding light on their unethical billing practices, poor fiduciary duties, and a concerning lack of accountability. One of the most concerning aspects of my experienc
Have you ever been to a financial planner/advisor that pressured you into joining their group? Well, I have and I didn't like being pressured into doing something that I wasn't 100% comfortable with. Fortunately, I had a friend mention Chicago Partners Wealth Advisors and suggested that I check them out. Well, I did. And I was impressed. They have a talent group of professionals who are constantly monitoring what is going in the financial markets and they make suggestions as to what they would do and w
Chicago Partners Wealth Advisors provide top-drawer investment advice. The CP team listens to the client and helps to develops strategies unique to the client's interests and risk parameters. The advice is candid and straight-forward. CP professionals have a keen understanding of the income tax regulations as they impact the structure and strategies of investing. CP also provides advisory services, as needed, to assist a client in understanding the strategies employed and the alternatives. CP is truly a
The people here at Chicago Partners are extremely helpful and knowledgeable. The environment around the office is great with all friendly faces. I am happy I was introduced to Chicago Partners.
Initial inquiries were very helpful. Looking forward to getting more information in person.
Great team of employees who genuinely care for their clients.
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.