Elwood & Goetz Wealth Advisory Group

Elwood & Goetz Wealth Advisory Group

Reviews Summary

Clients consistently praise the firm for its personalized, fiduciary approach, with many highlighting long-term satisfaction (10+ years in some cases). The team is commended for their professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to simplify complex financial decisions. They excel at tailoring strategies to individual goals, whether for retirement, investments, or life events like home buying or divorce. Multiple reviews note the firm’s ability to minimize losses during downturns while fostering steady growth. Clients appreciate the attentive, knowledgeable staff who go above and beyond, making them feel supported regardless of financial expertise or situation. The firm’s community focus and client appreciation are also frequently mentioned.

About This Listing

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals
Multi-state Experience

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

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals
Multi-state Experience

Contact Information

Address

687 S Milledge Ave

Athens, Georgia 30605

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM-5PM
Tuesday 8AM-5PM
Wednesday 8AM-5PM
Thursday 8AM-5PM
Friday 8AM-4PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

My wife and I have worked with Elwood and Goetz for over 17 years. We have had nothing but positive experiences with everyone we have worked with there. The team's management of our portfolio got us through the recession with minimal damage. They keep their eyes on trends and modify investment strategies and keep us informed. Over the years E&G has grown, but they have continued to give us personalized assistance as our family's needs change. We appreciate that they never push any particular product or serv

I was very happy with my experience with the Elwood & Goetz team! Everyone is super helpful, they got me scheduled for a consultation asap. The team took their time to go over my options and helped point me in the right direction. Sam Bahde was especially helpful and informed about mortgages and the home buying process, he was very pleasant and detailed. I look forward to working more with this knowledgeable team in the future.

I had a great experience with the Elwood & Goetz team. They truly took the time to understand my goals and provided thoughtful, personalized advice. Their guidance was clear and practical, and I felt genuinely supported throughout the process. I highly recommend them!

Joe, Lindsey, Alden and the entire Elwood & Goetz team are exceptional! Our family has been with E&G since 2009 and we could not be happier. They are professional, responsive, intuitive and involved in almost every financial decision we make. E&G tailors your portfolio to your specific goals and risk profile. We have experienced steady growth with relatively less risk. They have helped us make important decisions regarding life insurance, home business, and auto loans, and diverse investment opportuniti

My family has been a client of Elwood & Goetz since 2018 and have been well taken care of ever since. We have communicated with many of the team members at the firm throughout the years, and we always feel like our questions are answered and needs met. Lindsay and Joe do an excellent job hiring amazingly-talented people, and we look forward to many more years of successful partnership!

We have collaborated with this firm and team for over six years. The authentic local support in their community shows. They offer professional, integrative and modern take on Financial Services. And the client appreciation shows in all the little things they do!

Very helpful and understanding. I went to Elwood & Goetz seeking help/advice on taking over my family's finances. I'm not well-versed in a lot of financial language but Joe walked me through a lot of options for how to move forward and made me feel a lot better about a situation that at first seemed overwhelming. They clearly take great care of anyone who reaches out to them for help, no matter what your financial situation may be.

Elwood & Goetz has been one of the best things to ever happen to our family financially. They consistently go above and beyond the call of duty in providing expert advice, strategy, and overall care. I want to especially thank Melissa Barron, who has been a tremendous resource and a huge help. It is such a pleasure to work with people who truly care about their clients. Highly recommended!!

We were very impressed with the great customer service and amazing professionalism that started the moment we walked in the door. I had no idea what I needed or what I was even asking for. After the initial consultation, we walked away with a much better understanding of our next steps!

As someone just starting their professional career, I was trying to find guidance to help me prepare for both my short- and long-term financial goals. I was hesitant to reach out to any professional financial planner due to my lack of knowledge and the length of my career, but I ultimately decided to reach out to E&G because of how inviting they seemed to people in my situation. I was blown away by how above and beyond Joe and Sam went for me. They met with me at length, took my goals and concerns seriously

I have been a client of Elwood & Goetz Wealth Advisory Group for more than 10 years. I could not be more satisfied with their work. They are dedicated professionals who work hard to assure their clients have the best service possible. They work with each individual to provide the level of detail and understanding they wish to have, and are willing to meet as often as the client desires. They personalize their services to the individual client needs and go above and beyond to assure the client is knowledgeab

I have been with Elwood and Goetz Wealth Advisory Group for over 10 years and they have been wonderful. Always very professional in person when I have visited their Athens office (which by the way is beautiful) as well as via email. They always respond usually the same day and are always helpful and organized. They were extremely helpful with the finances associated with my divorce back in 2014 and I will always be grateful for that. Overall, I think, at least for me, they care about their costumers and

I've been with Elwood & Goetz for years. Best decision I ever made. After they reallocated my investments, the fees I'd been paying dropped more than enough to offset their modest fee. With their help, I retired more than two years ahead of schedule. Everything about E&G is top-notch.

Alden and the E&G team have been such an amazing addition to our financial life planning! Before Alden, it was just me & my spouse trying to figure everything out on our own and trying not make a major financial mistake. It was such a relief to turn over everything to Alden and her team to manage. Since we are young and still establishing ourselves financially, she and the team were able to get us started in the right direction. We chose Alden and the E&G team because of their focus on acting as a fiduciary

We sat down with Mr. Bahde and discussed all our options thoroughly. He was very detailed and broke it down to our understanding. Would highly recommend dealing with him and co.

We've been using E&G for a few years now and we're super happy with their professionalism, easiness to get in touch with, reliable and patient. They take care of everything financially related in our lives. Plus we work with Ben Jacobs whom we like a lot! Performance wise, they've excelled in the good years and minimized the loses in the low ones. They even found the house of our dreams in Athens. Man, we just lov?em. Cheers!

Can not recommend highly enough. We've worked with Elwood & Goetz for a decade now and it's been a pleasure each and every year. Their staff is attentive and knowledgeable. More than anything, they are problem solvers. They have never failed to do their best to find an answer or steer us in the right direction no matter what question we throw their way.

Without E&G, we do not know where we would be financially. They have supported us and helped us grow our portfolio in ways we never could have. All the while, respecting our needs as a family. We have been with them for a decade and never plan to leave.

Wow! Cody was so informative. I was simply looking for help when I called, not knowing where to turn in my financial goals, and he provided so much advice. He spent so much time explaining my next steps in financial planning. What a great company. Thank you!

The service I received from Elwood & Goetz was beyond what I expected. They earned a lifelong client!

You will never find a better or more successful or more caring firm! They are simply the best!!

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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