*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.*
5400 W Elm St STE 203
McHenry, Illinois 60050
I got to work with Eccezion as we had a mutual client involved in a transaction. They were exceptional to work with and went above and beyond in responding both quickly and accurately. I'm definitely going to refer future clients to them.
Eric and his team on the IT side of Eder Casella & Co have been wonderful since Ive worked with them. I was introduced a little over a year ago and not only have they been reliable, they have been educational, professional and extremely caring. Eric gave me the info I needed and explain it in a way that is understandable. On top of this, they go above and beyond to help you walk out feeling like your protected and moving into the right direction when it comes to your IT needs. Best perk, they understand App
I hired Eric and his team on several occasions to do work at both my home and my business. They did an excellent job! They were on time and affordable. They took the time to educate me on my new computer and my new smart home technology. I highly recommend them!
Eric and his crew from Eder Casella Technology did a fantastic job with a quick turnaround time repairing my laptop and rescuing files from old hard drives I thought were lost. Highly recommend!
I had been using the services of Broman & Kosar for my tax return preparation for over 20 years, so when they merged with Eder & Casella I was somewhat apprehensive that the service I had depended on would be disappointing after the transition. After 2 years of working with Eder & Casella I am pleased to say that the service has been great. The company has some on-line tools that Broman & Kosar didn't and though they have taken a little time to get used to, they have improved convenience. The people at Eder
I've met with and spoken with quite a few IT professionals that know there craft, and are very professional; however, that is were the similarities stop. Speaking with, and networking with Eric, helped me better understand his approach. He doesn't just attack the task at hand, but works to understand his clients and educate them on the best resolution possible.
This company was previously run by very ethical people who treated their customers well. Since it was changed over, they have turned into a company that has mistreated their customers (at least us) and have looked for every opportunity to price gouge us that they could. As a customer, I put in every measure possible to avoid these abuses with them, but they continued to occur anyway. This abuse was not limited to 1 occurrence. It was repeated abuses, which didn't seem to matter what the circumstances we
Kevin, Eric and the rest of the Eder Casella Technology group have been a tremendous help here at the library. They are quite knowledgeable and even learned a few things in regards to our industry. Thanks ECT!
Outstanding service with quick responses to questions. Very professional and courteous at all times. I?ve used them for several years to prepare very complex tax returns and have been extremely satisfied.
Eric and the Eder Casella team have helped my office out more times than I would like to admit. Always great at explaining the issue and how they can fix it. Thank you - thank you - thank you
We will be ending our 25 plus year run with this firm. Way to many reasons to list. I do not recommend this company.
Very easy and customer friendly to use. Good and quick service whenever I reached out to them. Highly recommend!
Great fast service and always answers any questions fast, plus they have a great electronic signing for tax returns.
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.