*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.*
31500 W 13 Mile Rd #114
Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334
Steve Lepsetz has been doing our taxes for nearly 30 years. He was my parent's accountant for many years as well. Needless to say we think his work is of the highest quality. He is extremely knowledgeable, thorough, efficient and has the utmost integrity. The few times he was not available one of his partners at FPL was able to cover for him.
My family has used Steve Lepsetz for personal and business taxes for over 20 years. One family member was audited (more than once) and Steve was marvelous when presenting in front of the IRS auditing team. Steve and Judi are very gracious with their time and are responsive to our needs. I highly recommend Farquharson, Pointon & Lepsetz for all your accounting needs.
Steven Lepsetz is very professional, honest and hardworking CPA. He is always available to answer questions. He has been doing our taxes since 2009. We are extremely satisfied with his services. I will strongly recommend Steven to everyone.
Extremely knowledgeable, and dedicated. From the time we started our business in 2010 to our eventual private equity exit 8 years later.. FPL was invaluable. At every stage of our growth, Steve Lepsetz was able to provide solid advice and was a great sounding board. I truly realized the quality of service we recieved from him when the private equity firm that was buying us sent not one, but two big six firms to perform due diligence - and they found not a single thing out of order in our books.
I have been using Farquharson, Pointon & Lepsetz for both of my personal taxes and also for an organization I keep the books for that is a 501 (c) 7 for several years now. This firm has been very thorough and quick to get my taxes calculated and back to me to review. They are very professional and their pricing is competitive. I would recommend them to any friend or colleague.
Steve Lepsetz has to be the world's BEST CPA, bar none. I am a physician. Many of my friends, including other physicians, dentists, university professors, businessmen, lawyers, and corporations all use him and are extremely happy with his outstanding service and reasonable fees. He is a GEM. Pure and simple. An absolutely gem. Definitely use him.?
DomCast has been with Farquharson, Pointon & Lepsetz for over 14 years. They are professional and a pleasure to deal with..
My friend recommended me Steve Lepsetz for my tax returns and I found he is very Professional, always ready to answer all type of questions and he keeps good communication all the time.
Been with this firm for over 20 years and they are very thorough and attentative to all my needs both personally and for my businesses as well.
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.