*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.*
23537 Kingsland Blvd #100
Katy, Texas 77494
Being part of Collective has honestly been a game-changer for us. It?s a super supportive, down-to-earth community of accountants from across the U.S. who just get it. We all face the same challenges and it?s nice to have a place where we can share ideas, tools, and real talk. The conversations are always helpful and flow naturally. The vibe is professional but friendly?no gatekeeping, no ego, just people helping people stay sharp and sane in this industry. If you?re an accounting pro looking to connect wit
As part of a mastermind group of 10 CPA firm owners from across the U.S., based on gross revenue, I?ve found Collective by DBA to be an incredibly valuable resource. It?s extremely helpful having a trusted network of fellow firm owners to share challenges, brainstorm improvements, bounce ideas off of, and hold each other accountable. The conferences they host?often with even more participants?are always worthwhile. The topics are timely and relevant, and the open sharing among owners provides a lot of acti
The thought and intention that Marcus and Rachel have put into this group is nothing short of amazing. They?ve surrounded themselves with the most talented individuals on their Collective team. Joining Collective and being part of a mastermind group is the best investment I've made in myself and my CPA firm. As a firm owner, I can easily feel isolated but this community has ?? solved that. I have other firm owners to chat with almost anytime. We?re always happy to help each other. The Collective community h
Collective by DBA is truly a one-of-a-kind community for accounting professionals! From the moment I joined, I could feel the energy and passion of this vibrant group. It?s not just a networking platform; it?s a space where some of the brightest minds in accounting come together to learn, grow, and inspire one another. Whether you're looking to sharpen your expertise, connect with like-minded professionals, or ignite new ideas, this is the place to be. The inclusivity and shared commitment to excellence mak
Joining Collective by DBA has been a game-changer for our firm! We truly love being a part of such a friendly and welcoming community that values connection and growth. Their team is incredibly supportive, and every interaction we've had has been outstanding. I recently attended the a book club for the book "The Miracle Morning," by Hal Elrod, and it was a transformative experience. The discussion was insightful, and I walked away with new perspectives that I?ve already applied in both my professional and
Collective by DBA has been instrumental in helping me run a successful accounting firm. Their support has empowered my staff and me to stay on top of the best strategies, software, and innovative ideas in the industry. The team's expertise and insights are invaluable, making it easy for us to implement effective solutions that drive our business forward. Their commitment to our success is evident in everything they do. I highly recommend Collective by DBA to any accounting firm looking to elevate their pr
Our team has been working with Collective for the last year. We are transforming our practice into a business that is beyond my wildest dreams. With the support of Collective we believe that the growth and health of our organization is boundless. We pick up and use all of the tools and resources including 1:1 advisory, group events, the online platform, and webinars. I am forever grateful to have been introduced to Collective.
Collective has created an open collaborative environment for the accountant profession to share advice, support and life. I have learned so much from both Marcus and Team and also all of the other members who share so transparently. It is a treasured group to be a part of.
I had an outstanding experience working with Collective by DBA. Their team brought deep expertise and a fresh perspective to our organization, quickly identifying areas for improvement in technology, leadership and best accounting firm practices.
The Collective is an incredible community of like-minded accounting professionals who are looking to grow their firms. It is incredible to see a group of people who are looking to cheer each other on in life.
The premier consulting and support group for small CPA, bookkeeping, and tax firms. They offer practical solutions to help firms refine their business and improve processes. They also have an amazing community of firm owners that are eager to support each other.
I can't say enough about Marcus and his team and all they do to pour into other firms in the community. They are informative and inspirational and do a great job of facilitating a community of forward-thinking firms.
Worth every penny. The time and energy they have shared has been so valuable and have helped us in immeasurable ways. Can't thank the team enough.
Love the community that Marcus and Rachel have created. A great space to share and learn from other accounting firm owners.
Collective does an amazing job of helping accounting firms and owners build their best lives.
They have helped me and our firm a ton with our accounting firm better. I highly recommend Collective.
I finally found my tribe! It?s awesome to surround yourself with other high performing CPA business owners.
Relevant and future thinking
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.