*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.*
232 S Batavia Ave
Batavia, Illinois 60510
My wife and I had what we believed was a complicated tax situation and needed professional advise. We found Steve here in Batavia and reached out to him for help. From the first moments he made us feel comfortable and not out of our depth with his consoling. He was professional, pleasant and very good at keeping things on a level we could understand. After a consultation he had relieve our "tax anxiety" and brought the order we needed to our affairs. We would highly recommend his services if your in a simil
Steve was such an amazing help for me. Great job explaining what everything means and how it pertains to me. Explained the process for income tax from start to finish and make sure I understood. Great company and I look forward to working with Steve and his team in the long run!
Steve really stood out to me as the best tax and financial advisor that I've ever come across. He gave me advice about my new family, tax bills, and advice for my small business (sole proprietorship). He genuinely cares, and I left our meeting feeling relieved and even encouraged. I highly recommend calling Steve for any tax help!
Steve did a great job on my taxes. His attention to details, and thoroughness was awesome. I had someone else for 15 years, and he moved south, so I was concerned this year. Steve fit right in with my expectations. Will be a return customer going forward....Nice work Steve, very much appreciated !
Steve is an exceptionally thorough and knowledgeable accountant. He took the time to walk us through some of the more complicated parts of our taxes, and was great to work with! Definitely recommend!
My wife and I could not be happier with Ciaccio Accounting. We found Steve Ciaccio to be very knowledgeable, trustworthy and personable. He truly cares about his clients and provides excellent service and attention.
I use Ciaccio Accounting every year for my taxes. Steve is extremely professional, knowledgeable and trustworthy. I highly recommend his services, and will be using them for years to come .
We highly recommend Ciaccio Accounting. Steve is great to work with and we have been very happy with him handling our taxes these past 3 years.
Steve genuinely cares about his clients. Very nice man and easy to work with. highly recommend!
Steve is pleasant to work with and knowledgable. He truly values accountability/security which put my mind at ease while he did my taxes
Steve responded very quickly to my phone call for help with a time sensitive issue. His assistance was spot on and I highly recommend him.
I've been working with Ciaccio Accounting for several years now and am extremely happy with the service, professionalism and attention to detail. Highly recommended.
Steve is extraordinarily nice, and so helpful. Its so nice to reach him personally on the phone.
I am so happy that I was referred to Steve. He was so helpful. I highly recommend him.
Steve Ciaccio was very professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. He helped with ny tax situation
I was quite pleased with Steve's tax advise and his services.
Steve is very knowledgeable, professional, and personable. Highly recommended.
Great service and highly recommend. Trustworthy and committed to client's best interests.
Great guy, professional, prompt service. Highly recommend.
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.