*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.*
204 9th Ave S
Safety Harbor, Florida 34695
Just had a new client conference with Tony Cola of Cola & Cola. I'm amazed at the awesome advice, service and time provided to a small business that is not even a client yet! So impressive! They were recommended to me and I would highly recommend to others in the Tampa Bay area.
This was my first year as a small business owner and I had a LOT of questions and concerns. Tony and his team spent hours (literally, hours) consulting with me, answering dozens of questions, and had a fast turn-around time for my return. Very excited to grow with Cola, and I am very grateful to their team. Would wholeheartedly recommend, especially for nervous new business owners like me! 2023 Update: Year 2 of doing taxes with Cola and Cola and I am even more impressed than last year. I'm not local so th
I'll start this review off by saying that this is by far the best accounting team I imagine is out there. Don't believe me, schedule a consultation with them and see for yourself. When I first started my business, I realized I quickly realized I needed an accountant. Tony from Cola&Cola CPAs came highly recommended from a colleague of mine and after scheduling a phone consultation with him, I saw why he was so highly recommended. Tony provided me with so much knowledge and useful information, I felt like
We have been more than happy with the services provided to us by Cola and Cola! Not only do they do all the bookkeeping, payroll and taxes for our business but they also do our personal taxes and provide financial planning and forecasting. Tony is always available for any questions or concerns and has been very generous with his time. By far the best CPA we have ever dealt with! Artie @ Uprooted Weed & Pest Control
Tony and his team have been unbelievable to work with. Between our personal and business returns they have help guide us and made sure we were getting our maximum return. 100% recommend them.
My experience with Tony and the staff at Cola and Cola was outstanding. From efficient and friendly initialization to detailed and knowledgeable solutions for my complex tax issues, I could not recommend any more than Cola and Cola. If you have a need in your business or corporation that is beyond the standard realm, look no further. 5 stars all day.
My husband and I have been using Cola & Cola, CPAs for the past few years. We have always been extremely satisfied with not only their tax expertise, but with the welcoming and professional atmosphere that Nick and his staff always extend to us. No question is ever too big or too small. Quick responses are always received. It's terrific. We would highly recommend Cola & Cola for anybody's tax needs.
Love! Tony is amazing and super patient with all my needs. Always goes above and beyond. Being a young business owner some of my questions may be rather peculiar however ?no question is a stupid question?. It is such a relief to not have to deal with my taxes on top of everything else. They introduced me to Quickbooks; we absolutely LOVE it. Super easy to navigate. If I ever run into a problem they are super responsive.
I am so glad I found Cola & Cola, CPAs. They have been incredibly patient, kind, and helpful throughout the on-boarding process. They're super responsive, great at meeting with me whenever I need additional guidance and have relieved a lot of my anxiety over changing the structure of my business to allow continued growth. They continually make me feel important, heard, and valued.
Tony and the entire Cola and Cola team are exceptional! I am not just a number to them and they make me feel like family. They have gone above and beyond for me year after year!
Tony and his team are experts in very complicated tax and IRS issues. They helped solve a 3 year old black cloud created by a former employee that others said was not solvable. Highly recommend!
My company has been a client for over five years. The service is professional and extremely responsive. This is the third accounting service our company has had over our 13 years in business, and they are hands down the best experience we have had.
Well informed CPAs are up-to-date on tax laws; will even educate you. Always accessible, even on a short notice! Preparing tax returns has been a breeze?.
Nick Cola, thank you very much for preparing my taxes. Your staff is always there to help answer all of my questions. ??
Tony is professional, knowledgeable, and responsive. I highly recommend this firm.
Good and very friendly company keep the good work up guys
Responsive customer service
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.