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CPA Johnston & Associates LLC

CPA Johnston & Associates LLC

Reviews Summary

Overall, the reviews reflect highly positive experiences, with most praising the professionalism, efficiency, and personal touch of the service. Many highlight thorough, clear communication, quick turnaround, and compassionate handling of complex or sensitive tax situations. A few mention occasional delays or high pricing, but these are outweighed by consistent satisfaction. The team is described as knowledgeable, friendly, and trustworthy, with long-term clients emphasizing reliability and personalized care. Minor criticisms focus on rare lapses in follow-up or value perception, but the overwhelming consensus is strong recommendation.

About This Listing

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Contact Information

Address

7264 Columbia Rd #100

Maineville, Ohio 45039

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday 9AM-5PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

My experience with Charlotte, Chris and the rest of the team was outstanding! I used to do my own tax preparation, but due to some changing circumstances, it was time to use a professional, and that?s exactly what I got! The team here was pleasant, quick, they probed deeper to make sure information was thorough and most of all, they gave me peace of mind that my taxes were filed on time and accurately. I wouldn?t go anywhere else and I will be back next year!

Johnston and Assoc handles our personal tax returns. Chris Schaefer is THE best!! Responsive, communicative, efficient, patient, knowledgeable.... He's been doing our taxes for several years and I am so fortunate and blessed to have him taking care of us! Charlotte Johnston is wonderful, personable, and REALLY REALLY cares about her clients. I highly recommend this firm.

Charlotte was a great help and went way out of her way to make sure everything correct. She genuinely cares about our well being and making sure our financial journey goals are being met.

Charlotte is VERY knowledgeable about tax laws and how to use them to save you money!!! The fee to have her complete my taxes has always been well worth it when I see my refund amount I wouldn't have gotten without her knowledge. She is very personable and prompt with any questions and requests.

I unexpectedly needed tax preparation for 2022 in March of 2023. I was referred to Johnston and Associates. Charlotte was happy to help me, with professionalism and personal attention. Every staff member I spoke with had the same demeanor. Thank you all! I'll be back next year, for sure!

I've been letting Charlotte and her staff take care of my family's CPA needs for almost 10 years. It gets more personable each season. They are attentive to my ever changing life and career choices and give guidance at the best times. I would recommend all of my military friends and family friends to see her and have. Great knowing that they truly care about my family and will reach out when needed. Personal touches will keep us with them for years to come.

We love Charlotte and her amazing team!!! I?ve been using them for the past 15+ years and they?ve always done a fantastic job, even with weird situations, and are always super friendly and responsive.

Have known Charlotte for 20 years and she has done my personal and business taxes for that entire time. She also has provided accounting services as well. I have found her to be very honest, trustworthy, and professional. Would highly recommend her services to anyone.

Hired for a tax issue. Would have to call week after week to remind the folks to do what they needed to do. They would say I was going to call Ohio Tax tomorrow. Then a week would go by. Oh, i forgot to call them. So frustrating.

Charlotte and the team are amazing! She has cleaned up my messes and keeps me on track. She is the Grandma who will go toe to toe with the IRS and you get to enjoy watch her WIN. So glad I met her and I recommend Charlotte and team to everyone!!

Charlotte handled my late father?s estate taxes. She was very thorough, answered all my questions, was compassionate, and very organized. I was so happy with the service that I hired her to do my personal taxes.

First experience with this organization.Have been having taxes prepared for many years,Johnston and Associates ranks with the the best. Efficient, friendly,took time to go over detail, makes you feel like valued customer. Definitely recommend.

Although when we first met, Charlotte essentially made me feel awful for having a master's degree and not making enough money, (thanks for making me feel like a complete failure), while pointing out the obvious and pushing Dave Ramsey on us for about 10 minutes....they did a great job on our taxes and were quick and efficient. One of the CPA's, Chis, was friendly and very helpful. Tax service itself was great. Psychological analysis...not so much.

I recommend JA all of the time. I tell friends and other small business owners that Charlotte and her staff have handled all of my business accounting for years. That they make things easy for me to understand, take care of all of the tax details that I hate doing and they keep me on top of things. Plus, they're fun and so easy to work with

Charlotte and her team have helped me out with years of crunching the numbers to assist me with my taxes. She is very helpful in informing me of what I need to gather and record in order to maximize on my returns. I am very appreciative of all that they've done to assist me.

Charlotte Johnston has been my CPA since 2013 tax year. Every year I gather my tax documents together knowing I am in good hands with Charlotte. She is a 5 star CPA. Her staff will treat you with professionalism and curiosity. Thank you for all you do for me.

Johnston & Associates are great. It was so great having Charlotte help us through a difficult time. I was great having someone we knew we could trust. I absolutely recommend Johnston & Associates.

Charlotte and her team have prepared my taxes for years. They are extremely competent and provide fantastic customer service. I recommend this firm with out hesitation or reservation! Ted Saulnier

Johnston & Associates are great CPA's. They handle my taxes and I really appreciate how easy they make it. They are trustworthy people and I would definitely recommend using their services as they will do right by you.

Absolutely amazing service. I contacted them late into tax season and they were able to see me quickly. They found misses from last year where we used a different tax prep service. We will use them every night. Highly recommend

Let me start by saying sorry for the long post. I had a very complicated tax year coming so I did a ton of research on who to go to for help, the reviews looked great and based on research I decided Johnston & Assoc was the place to go. Speaking to them on the phone before my first appointment they told me to gather all the documents I could for all the items I needed to go through. I went for my first appointment and immediately I felt confused. It seemed I had to go over everything again but Charlotte onl

Charlotte always takes care of us. The organizer insures that we bring everything we need for tax returns. Consults are always accurate and well explained.

The Staff at Johnston & Associates are always positive and encouraging, from the time you get there. They have impeccable customer service and respond to every question very quickly. I would highly recommend their services to anyone.

Just used them for taxes for the first time this year. Very professional and friendly. All documents prepared and copies provided well organized. Definitely recommend.

Was treated professionally at all times. Did an excellent job of explaining all the new laws and changes. Would definitely recommend this accounting firm to people seeking tax filing business.

I actually enjoyed getting my taxes done this year. Charlotte and staff were fun and professional. I would recommend them to everyone.

I highly recommend, Charlotte and her girls are great,they make running my business easier!

Fast and pain free process. Forms were sent ahead of the appoint to fill out and checklist for all document . Also, followed up with a list of items to ensure all documents were received. overall, pleasant experienc .

Another year in the books and another great job on our taxes by Johnston & Associates. Their team gets it right year after year and we would not consider having someone else handle our taxes.

Highly professional and knowledgeable. I'm very appreciative of Charlotte Johnston's tax preparation services and advice.

Someone who knows what they are doing, kind, AND has a good sense of humor and enjoys a laugh! I have found more of my people!

Highly recommended. Friendly staff and awesome service. Very professional and patient. They made it very easy for me to File my difficult taxes.

Well Johnston & Assoc. has been my CPA for over 20 years and you will never find a better one in all of Mason, probably anywhere in Cincinnati!!!!

Great experience! Everyone was kind, helpful and professional. My taxes were done quickly and I was happy to get money back!

Mistakes made causing amended return and now I?m still missing $2,000 return a year and a half later. Not very relationship oriented. Seeking new services.

I have used Johnston &Associations for several years and find them to continually to be professional and responsive. I have recommended them to others.

By far the most efficient, friendly and accurate firm that I?ve ever had to work on my taxes. I highly recommend!

Great, personable, professional, and prompt services provided by Charlotte and her team. I highly recommend!

Had a quick phone conversation with Charlotte, she is very kind & knowledgeable. Thank you.

Communication has always been clear.I have never had questions after a conversation.I have always wanted to understand what was happening with my income.

Chris was very helpful and took time to explain things

Friendly service. Pricing is high for the work completed.

Charlotte is the best!

Disappointed but at least she made it right in the end.

Excellent Service! Very professional!

You guys are the BOMB!!!??

Always does right things ..

Knowledgeable and helpful staff

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.

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