*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.*
840 William Hilton Pkwy B
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928
I cannot express how indebted I am to the work David has done for my daughter and me. He has worked diligently to help me fulfill my responsibility as a taxpayer. I am completely overwhelmed by the entire process. He has literally lifted the clouds and helped us immeasurably. I cannot recommend him highly enough. He goes well beyond the call of duty. He exudes great care and concern while executing his duties professionally and with great expertise. Growing up my Dad owned a small business, and he made it
Absolutely nothing My father chose to move to David Williams after a bad experience at another accounting firm. We had a meeting with him last Fall and Dad provided him with the previous year?s returns. He explained what issues he had with the previous firm. Dad died in October. I completed all the paperwork and submitted it to David in mid February. I?ve received no return and had no communication, and it is now April 8. I have called multiple times asking for an update, and am told that he is working on i
I've known David for several years now. He provides top quality, accurate, and honest work to help his clients minimize their taxes within the bounds of IRS rules. I highly recommend his services.
David is very knowledgeable about taxes and is very helpful to make them understandable to the average person. He stays up to date on all of the latest IRS information to help his clients take advantage of deductions. I highly recommend David.
David and his staff of qualified book keepers have taken care of our accounting needs for several years. His services are timely, accurate and at times creative. Always trust an accountant with a sense of humor.
Extremely professional! I have used a few accountants in the area and will definitely continue to use David for personal and business. The personnel were very knowledgeable, thorough and efficient and took the extra time to explain things to me at a level I would understand. Thanks for your hard work and dedication.
when I do tax report, I can save big money by david cpa. He and his team work greatly for customers, I recommend him very proudly.
David was able to give me excellent advice and save me potential thousands of dollars restructuring my business. I highly recommend him to anyone.
David Williams and his staff are the best friendly very knowledgeable and helpful in all your tax needs personal and business.
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.