*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.*
10418 White Oak Dr
Carmel, Indiana 46033
FTM is our trusted partner on accounting and financial services to help our nonprofit organization for over 15 years! Their team has helped us grow and manage through a variety of business cycles, including managing major multi-year grants and contracts, including direct federal awards! Kudos to FTM for helping us get to where we are today!
We at Thomas Ridley's 1 Like Me would like to express our utmost gratitude and satisfaction with the exceptional financial management services provided by Financial Technologies & Management (FTM). As a nonprofit organization, it is crucial for us to have a reliable and efficient financial management system in place, and FTM has exceeded our expectations in every aspect. From the moment we engaged with FTM, their team demonstrated a deep understanding of the unique financial challenges faced by nonprofits.
Jim and his colleagues at Financial Technologies & Management have provided financial management services for our organization since 2008. In all those years our non-profit organization has received excellent service. FT&M is always responsive to any questions and very helpful in every way. You make life easier for us! Thank you for everything that you do.
FTM is invaluable! The experience and knowledge Jim and his team bring are vital for an organization like ours. They communicate well, are always patient when I have questions, and meet all deadlines. They support us on grants and specific board reports, ensure all invoices are paid, and catch any errors. Our financial statements are always in order and they have a good understanding of our organizational culture. Thank you, FTM!
My organizaiton was looking for a new CPA firm that had the ability to assist a medium sized non-profit but also cared about our mission. Jim and his staff fit the bill nicely! Jim has been a crucial part in helping our organization and we are so happy to have found FTM! Michelle - Voices Corp.
FTM has provided services to our organization for many years and has taken great care of us. They stay up to date on the latest financial issues and ensure we are compliant. They are good thought partners as well. I recommend their services to any organization!
FTM has been an amazing asset to our organization. They are incredibly knowledgeable and work alongside us in a wonderful partnership.
I have had the pleasure of meeting with FTM on various occasions for budget & software trainings where I feel I have always walked away more informed and better prepared. Jim is knowledgeable, courteous, and a great trainer! I always look forward to our training sessions!
This company is a life saver! Jeron has made my job so much easier and taken the stress out of tech problems. No more long waits and no more question as to whether the person I am talking to knows what they are doing. We have gotten quick email answers, calls, teams meetings, training, 1099 help, and super easy to use manuals. I cannot stress enough that it was worth every penny! Jeron is our hero!
FTM is WONDERFUL to work with! Being with a nonprofit organization, it is so great to work with a team that is full of knowledge and has always been super helpful to our organization. Stacey and Jim are a great team for us!
The team at FTM is extremely helpful and always available to assist my company with our financial needs, no matter the situation/.
FTM has been essential in the overall financial management of our community-based nonprofit.
I've had a great experience with all of the staff and services at FTM. Wonderful customer service!!
Knowledgeable and supportive, ready to help you get your finance tasks done.
Excellent service and a wonderful staff.
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.