*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.*
215 W Oak St Suite 720
Fort Collins, Colorado 80521
My wife and I met with Shawn ~8 years ago to discuss early retirement. I wanted to understand Shawn's philosophy and values if I handed over my money to his business. After a few meetings with Shawn, we detailed a "retirement" plan (which included working an additional 2 years) and short-, mid- and long-term goals. Shawn listened and provided recommendations on the path forward. 2 years after our initial discussions and feeling 100% confident in Shawn, I decided Shawn's company was our best fit for myself a
It's hard to admit that my older brother was right; watching him happy and loving life in retirement is where I want to be too someday and hopefully very soon. When I moved to Colorado 11 years ago, I had to reinvest from previous employment-related stocks and 401(k)?s, and I needed sound financial advice while my salary fluctuated. My brother introduced me to Shawn Dunnigan with the Dunnigan Financial Group. After sitting down with Shawn, I wished I'd moved to Colorado sooner to build my finances faster
I've been with the Dunnigan Financial Group for around 15 years. Shawn and his team offers exceptional financial services, delivering consistently impressive results. The Dunnigan Financial Group focuses on their clients' needs, offering straightforward advice that builds trust and confidence. Shawn and his team have a proven track record of success and a very positive forward-thinking approach. You can trust the Dunnigan Financial Group with achieving your financial goals.
We've been with Dunnigan Financial since 2017. Wish I would've found him much earlier in my investing years. Shawn is one of a few persons in my life which I can say has true integrity with how he runs his business. He listens to his clients with care for thier needs and dreams for the future. He will give you the honest advice you need (including that which you may not want to hear) to ultimately help you get where you want to be. I absolutely trust him to help get my wife and I over the threshold to
I've been working with Dunnigan Financial Group for some time now, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the guidance they've provided. Their professionalism and expertise have been instrumental in helping me navigate my retirement goals. I truly feel like I'm in good hands with their team, and I appreciate the clear, personalized advice they offer. They've made what could be a stressful process feel manageable and even empowering. I highly recommend Dunnigan Financial Group to anyone seeking trustworthy an
I have been a client of Shawn's for over 18 years. Shawn and his team have a unique and personalized approach to helping meet your financial needs. They really take all aspects of your financial picture in to account when working with their clients. They have been an invaluable resource for financial perspective in planning for retirement and achieving financial goals.
I wish I could give Dunnigan Financial more than 5 stars! I'd give them at least 100!! They are the kindest, most caring, and fun people! Not only is working with them a pleasure, they are outstanding at investing and making your money make money! They throughly explain how they invest your money to gain capital. These people are EXCELLENT at what they do! I cannot express the peace of mind I have in my life because of them!!
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.