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Founder's CPA

Founder's CPA

Reviews Summary

Founder's CPA receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with most reviewers praising their expertise in crypto taxes, startup accounting, and complex bookkeeping. Customers highlight their responsiveness, professionalism, and deep knowledge of tax laws. Many appreciate their ability to handle challenging cases others couldn't. A few mention concerns about communication delays and pricing transparency, but the majority strongly recommend their services for small businesses and crypto-related needs. The team is consistently described as reliable, thorough, and highly skilled.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Sales Tax Compliance
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
International Tax
Virtual CFO
Outsourced Accounting
Startups
Technology
QuickBooks
Xero
Gusto
State-Specific 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

Bookkeeping
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Sales Tax Compliance
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
International Tax
Virtual CFO
Outsourced Accounting
Startups
Technology
QuickBooks
Xero
Gusto
State-Specific Experience

Contact Information

Address

850 W Jackson Blvd #330

Chicago, Illinois 60607

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday 9AM-5PM
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday 9AM-5PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Founder's CPA is a fantastic firm that is extremely thorough and highly professional with all of their interactions. Their knowledge and service really sets them apart, and helped me understand every step of the way with all of my crypto taxes. If you're looking for a firm for yourself or your business, I highly recommend Justin M., and the great team at Founders! Thanks again to you all.

Let me start by saying that I have spoken to many accountants and many of them did not have the knowledge to assist me. I did some extensive research and came across Founder's CPA . Honestly, they are the gold standard when it comes to crypto taxes and preparation. I was so worried because I had a lot of transactions from different exchange platforms to the point it gave me a headache. I first had a consultation with Curt and Justin. I immediately knew they were the ones to help because they were able to a

So I've used a ton of different accountants over the years to do my crypto bookkeeping. None of them did a good job. In fact, the accounting firm I used on the previous return made a mistake that costed me a ton in penalties. That firm was also charging me $300/hr for what was clearly outsourced help that barely understood crypto. I never realized how much more costly hiring the wrong accountant was. So most of these places will pick 1 crypto accounting software and stick to that. The issue is that if

As someone that needed a deep dive on his crypto taxes, Curt and Justin helped me out immensely. Helping me build out systems and processes for my taxes, Founder's CPA professionalism and excellent communication allowed me to feel at ease during a very stressful and uncertain time of filing for me. Huge thanks to these guys and the company for the work they do, will definitely be coming back in the future for more filings with these folks!

Curt and his team at Founder's CPA have been an absolute pleasure to work with throughout this past tax season and also very essential/helpful in navigating through COVID-19 as someone who is an employee as well as an independent contractor. Definitely recommend Founder's CPA to anyone looking for a tax and accounting team.

Justin McCormick and Founder's CPA are amazing and efficient at Crypto related tax preparation. Professional, efficient and highly knowledgeable. The only way to go in my opinion.

Hands down the best small business/start-up accountant I have worked with (and I have worked with more than a few and interviewed several before hiring Founder's CPA). Curt and his team are super responsive and have an in-depth knowledge of tax law and the implications for a start-up. Highly recommend.

We consider Founder's CPA an integral part of our team and highly recommend their reliable, responsive, patient, and tuned-in service. What basically began as "help with QuickBooks" has evolved into CFO duty at our two start-ups over time. You get those gigs by building trust, and Curt does that not only by consistently demonstrating deep and up-to-date knowledge of start-up accounting matters (e.g., QBO, tax law changes, S-Corp vs LLC, etc.), but by anticipating curve balls and doing what he says he's goi

Had a consultation with the founder curt, it appears he outsources most of his accounting to unqualified workers overseas. He also refuses to give you any idea of how he can help you until he locks you into a several thousand dollar contract. He also asks your income before giving you prices on your services, I have tested this theory. With the same amount of work he will charge 3-4x if he knows you can pay it. Please be careful when signing up to work with this company!! Most employees are not even locat

Founder's CPA is an excellent and professional firm. They treated me and my business as their top priority and were always available for guidance and direction. I highly recommend their services to any business owners looking for reliable service.

Had Justin work on my crypto taxes and him and the team are great. A lot had to be done but he stuck through it and we landed somewhere where I am satisfied. Would recommend.

Highly recommended! Curt and his team did a great job helping me with my small business tax refund. They are responsive, quick, friendly and knowledgeable.

Curt and his team are competent, effective, and responsive. Would highly recommend to owners of small-to-midsize technology businesses in Chicago and around the US.

I've really enjoyed working with Founder's CPA and all their associates. They have helped me with complex book keeping that other firms could not handle.

Did this company go out of business? No one answers the phone line, email, or contact form anymore

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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