*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.*
1150 Airport Rd
Destin, Florida 32541
I've been using Coastal Accounting for both my personal and business taxes for years, and I couldn't be happier! Their expertise, attention to detail, and personalized service have made the process seamless and stress-free. The team is always prompt, professional, and ready to answer any questions. Highly recommend to anyone looking for reliable accounting services!
Literally the best accounting firm in the area and it isn?t close. I?ve been using Coastal for the last 7+ years and they are amazing. Tripp Cash has always had my best interest in mind and goes out of his way to return phone calls and emails in a timely manner. He is extremely knowledgeable and explains my taxes in simple terms. His entire team is professional and attentive to their customers. I rarely leave comments online, but I felt like their customer service was so exceptional that I needed to provide
Over the past five years, Tripp Cash and his team at Coastal Accounting have been an invaluable resource for all my tax-related needs. Navigating the complexities of the tax world can be daunting, but Tripp has consistently provided clear, professional guidance that has made the process much more manageable. Tripp's expertise, combined with his commitment to having the customer's best interest at heart, sets him apart. He takes the time to understand your unique situation and offers personalized advice tai
I can't say enough good things about Coastal Accounting and especially Trey Bacon. Trey has been an incredible help, always making sure everything is crystal clear, whether the news is good or bad, so I can make the right decisions for my business. His straightforward approach is exactly what I need, and it?s made a huge difference. Coastal Accounting is a great place with great people, even if Trey is an LSU fan?sometimes that?s hard to take, but I guess I?ll survive! ?? Highly recommend their services.
I work with Coastal accounting to complete my personal and business taxes. They have been great to work with. Everyone is very responsive and detailed. I?ve worked Tripp, Trey, Delaney, and Elizabeth and they were all very helpful.
As the owner of a small local business, we were in need of a strong ?local? accounting firm to help us with our books and offer general consulting for operational decisions. After researching our options, we landed on Coastal with Russell Cash as our main POC and glad we did. Russell has been an absolute pleasure to work with, along with the rest of the CA team!! Cant thank you guys enough for all the tailored solutions you have offered!! Highly recommend!!!
Coastal Accounting has been wonderful for my families business and personal taxes for the past few years, specifically Russell. He explains the accounting practices in a way where non-CPAs can understand. Great company! Better people!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! Coastal Accounting has been doing my taxes for the past couple of years and I couldn?t be more satisfied. Delaney Fussell and Virginia Gunn were instrumental in getting me initially set up with taxes and payroll. Russell Cash is a wealth of knowledge and a pleasure to work with as well. I love Coastal Accounting and wouldn?t recommend anyone else!!
Worked with this group for years. We have used Tripp Cash and couldn't have anything better to say. He always answers even the craziest questions and makes taxes a breeze! Definitely ask for him if thinking about using this company.
Coastal Accounting has handled our business and taxes and has been nothing short of professional and highly knowledgeable. Would highly recommend Tripp and his staff to anyone.
I have been a customer for many years! It has been an ordeal lately working with them , especially Mr Cash. He completely messed up my taxes and forgot to declare some of my revenues . Because of it I was fine by the IRS and refuse to own to his mistakes. I have called the owner, was not able to speak with him about it , left a message. My call despite me having be a customer for more than 10 years ! I wish there could have been an option not to even put a star
I have used Coastal Accounting for a few years now! I am always so happy with the service provided. The ladies in the office have always been nothing but wonderful! Tax season can get hectic and these ladies are always on point.
Coastal Accounting does an incredible job each year for me and my business! They are attentive, knowledgeable and helpful with any questions I have.
This company may provide I great service, but who knows because I have called twice with no returned response. Each time I was told that ?Virginia? was at lunch. I gave my information and need, but I didn?t hear back from them. This occurred over a 2-3 week period. Red flag ?? on customer service!
I?m a bit disorganized and the folks here at Coastal Accounting have all been patient and great with getting my accounts straightened out. Highly competent and know the ins and outs of their trade extremely well.
We have been working with Coastal for a few years and every year we have an excellent experience. We look forward to growing with this firm.
I have used Tripp for years. He has always been professional and goes above and beyond for anything I have needed. Have sent several of my friends his way.
Excellent firm. Tripp provided a great experience. Highly recommend for anyones tax needs!
Incredible company. I have worked with Tripp for years. Wouldn?t recommend anyone else.
A fast and friendly service. They have a great staff
Excellent folks to deal with. Very knowledgable and customer focused.
Very helpful and always looking out for your best interests.
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.