*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.*
208 Preakness Way
Stansbury Park, Utah 84074
Melissa and her team are amazing! They guided me through the tax process seamlessly, answering my questions in a timely fashion. Their portal is easy to use and Melissa updates it regularly to reflect changes and to make things really clear for us as users. I appreciate that so much as a business owner. If you need to talk to a real person, or if you need bookkeeping help or other Tax planning services, Fortitude will serve you. They are efficient, quick to respond and knowledgable about all things Taxes.
Melissa and her team are awesome! Super quick, very knowledgeable and help answer any questions or review tax code changes. The portal they use is amazing and saves me so much time. Business filings have never been easier!
I've switched to Fortitude Tax & Accounting this year and so far, I've been so impressed and happy to be working with Melissa. She is extremely knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. She also gives great advice with regard to financial planning. Yeah, never thought I'd say "happy" and "taxes" in the same sentence, but I said it! And I mean it! Melissa is so easy to talk to and she really makes the whole tax return process smooth and easy. I especially love the whole online tax organizer tool she uses called
As a business owner for over 25 years, I did not realize what I was missing until I started working with Melissa and Fortitude. I'm confident I will lower my tax liability, significantly reduce the tax stress and actually look forward to tax planning instead of tax paying. Love the organization and efficiency of the portal and I'm excited to see the positive impact Fortitude will have on my businesses.
I could go on & on about how helpful Melissa has been. As a soloprenuer I would get hit with a tax bill every year and my debt to the IRS just kept growing. It felt like I was drowning and had no idea how to get out. She was the first accountant I ever worked with that had an interest in helping me get ahead of it all. She put together a strategic plan that I understand and was able to follow. This is the first year I've actually gotten a refund! I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and I am so grat
Melissa has been doing my taxes for the past 15 years, I would recommend her to anyone who is looking for quality service. She?s very professional and courteous, she understands and is proficient in all areas of businesses and personal tax information. She has a wonderful personality. She is competent and even under the most stressful situation she works through it and is remarkable with every encounter. I highly recommend this business.
I highly recommend this business for anyone looking for a fantastic accountant. The customer service I received from Melissa was absolutely amazing. She?s helpful, professional, and made it such an easy experience. I will forever use this business and endorse Melissa whenever anyone is looking for someone to do their taxes.
Melissa has handled my taxes and other accounting needs for as long as I can remember. Her attention to detail is amazing and the awareness she maintains of all the related issues for both business and personal finances is unmatched. Her ability to keep everything straight and organized, even when I have not been quite as organized as I should have been on my end is very closely resembling Magic.
Melissa and her team professionals in every sense. Their processes, communication, and advising has been a blessing. Highly recommend!
Our accountant is retiring, so he referred us to Melissa and her team. They are absolutely wonderful. We will definitely refer them whenever possible.
Melissa was so easy to work with. Met with us prior to let us know what to expect. The portal was easy to navigate. She was very thorough. Thank you Melissa for helping with taxes
Amazing customer service, fair pricing, and above all exceptional professionalism. I highly recommend Melissa and her team to be thorough, trustworthy, and extremely competent. A+++
Melissa is well spoken and has tremendous knowledge. Highly Recommended to file your taxes confidently
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.