*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.*
66 West St Suite 2
Mansfield, Massachusetts 02048
As a small business owner who has poured my heart and soul into building my company, hitting the five-year mark was both exciting and overwhelming. I knew it was time to find a CPA and business advisor I could fully trust?someone who would be a true collaborator in helping me grow. I found exactly that in Courtney CPA. The level of detail and accuracy in Marietta?s work is unmatched. As a very organized and detail-oriented person, I immediately appreciated her precision. She identified errors that previous
Working with Marietta has been so helpful for my business! As a health care professional running my own practice, finding someone to help me understand the financial and business side of things was imperative. I am someone who had been avoiding the financial part of my business due to my own inexperience and anxiety but talking to Marietta has helped me feel more confident. Would definitely recommend her services!
Marietta is much more than an accountant. I think of her as part of my team and do not feel my company would be where we are now without her. Her ability to not only help with the accounting side of things, but also be a business adviser and walk us through extremely complicated things in a manner that someone like myself can understand is a quality that I did not expect when hiring a CPA. She helped my company move from a small DBA with 3 employees working out of my house, to a corporation with 15 trucks,
I have been using Marietta since 2012, and since then, she has helped keep my practice in compliance with all federal and state laws. We even had an audit in 2016, which went event free, due to her stellar accounting principles and advice as to how to manage our assetts and accounts. I am sure it pained the IRS when they mailef us the letter saying that our taxes were in order and they were closing our file. Marietta is very personable, knowledgeable and more importantly, responds to emails qu kly!! Highly
So impressed by the comprehensive process Marietta and her team have created to help businesses understand their financial picture and grow effectively. Her knowledge, clarity, and approach gave me the space to be totally open about my financial strengths and challenges, and I'm looking at the year ahead with much more confidence. Thank you!
I've worked with Marietta now for five years and I'm so happy with our decision to engage her. I'm now starting to engage her as I start my own business and feel so much peace of mind with this big life change. I know I am in excellent hands with Marietta!
Marietta and her team have been a tremendous asset to our growing business in more ways than I can explain. No questions go unanswered no matter how stupid. Problems that we did not even know we had solved before they became an issue. From simple payroll to complicated tax problems the Courtney Team has had our back.
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.