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Edwardsville Accountant: Thompson Flaherty CPA

Edwardsville Accountant: Thompson Flaherty CPA

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the firm for professionalism, expertise, and thorough tax preparation, with many highlighting exceptional refunds and personalized advice. Long-term clients appreciate consistent quality and trustworthiness. However, some criticize slow service, missed deadlines, and high costs, citing frustration with communication and unexpected fees. A few note errors or breaches of confidentiality. Overall, satisfaction is high among happy clients, while dissatisfied ones report significant service issues.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
QuickBooks

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.*

Features

Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
QuickBooks

Contact Information

Address

219 2nd Ave STE B

Edwardsville, Illinois 62025

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Tuesday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Wednesday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Thursday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Friday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

My experience with Thompson Flaherty was frustrating, costly, and unprofessional. They missed important tax payment and filing deadlines, causing unnecessary stress and multiple warning letters and a fine from the IRS. They also made serious errors, including payroll mistakes and even sending me another business? financial records, an alarming breach of confidentiality. Their pricing was completely unreasonable for the lack of value provided. They increased invoices without explanation, and the quality of

While the team at Thompson Flaherty CPA managed to complete our forms adequately, their service speed left much to be desired. Despite multiple inquiries about the status of our paperwork, I was repeatedly provided with deadlines that they failed to meet. Our paperwork was delayed for an inordinate period of five months, causing us to incur significant interest and late fees. What compounded our disappointment was the firm's attempt to levy additional charges just to draft a letter to the IRS concerning the

I have known Kelly Flaherty for approximately the last year, and he did my 2016 tax return. He did a phenomenal job!! It was the best refund I've ever received! I have never met someone who knows the ins & outs of the IRS laws & regulations like Kelly does. I am able to hear stores from him all the time on how he helps clients save money on their taxes. I trust him to do my own personal returns, and if I owned a business, I DEFINITELY would have him doing my taxes there as well. Kelly is a great CPA and a g

We have used Thompson Flaherty for going on 3 years now and every year we always leave feeling like they really took care of us. Not every year is the outcome we want as far as refunds go but Kelly always takes the time to explain the outcome and then give us advice for the upcoming year. He is very straight to the point and I really thinks cares for each of his clients. Looking forward to this years tax return!!

The team has done our tax preparation for the last 3 years in a professional and friendly way. Kelly always answers any questions and explains the results.

I was referred to them by a member of the Alton BNI group, and the experience was terrible. Took over 4 weeks to get completed, and never received any response to communication when I emailed or called to follow up. Was not told what price was going to be until I received a phone call letting me know they were ready to pick up and they told me what the balance still due to them was. It was over $150 more than I have ever paid to have my taxes done and it was without a doubt the worst experience. Poor co

Fantastic! Kelly Flaherty and Jim Klostermann are outstanding at what they do. They have helped me a ton with my business. Their attention to detail is what makes them so great. Also are great to work with and care for you and your best interest.

We have been with Thompson-Flaherty CPA for 13 years, now, both for personal and business. We have always come away from our tax preparation meetings knowing that they have uncovered every way that we can reduce our tax bill. That's what you want in a CPA! We'll be with Thompson-Flaherty CPA for many years to come.

We are working with Kelly and Diane on our taxes for our small business. They have been responsive and quick to action on our accounting needs.

Thompson Flaherty's team is professional and knowledgable about all aspects of both your personal accounting needs and your business accounting needs. Give them a call. Great people

My husband and I used Thompson Flaherty for the first time this year and had a fantastic experience! Everything was taken care of for us and I knew we were in great hands!

As an independent contractor, Realtor. I need someone extremely savvy to capture my potential deductions. Kelly Flaherty all the boxes.

We have been going to Thompson Flaherty CPAs for years and highly recommend their services to everyone.

I would rate them higher but they charge you extra (beyond their normal service fee) if you can?t pay them by cash or check.

Professional, trustworthy, and highly experienced. I recommend them to individuals and business owners.

He is awesome at explaining thing and helping with all your tax needs!!!!!!!

Very slow and very expensive.

Great experiences with Jim. Recommend Thompson Flaherty firm.

Did a great job with our taxes.

BEST TAX EXPERIENCE EVER!

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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