*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.*
590 Wells Rd STE 4
Orange Park, Florida 32073
Great Service, very knowledgeable, fun to work with. If you are a small business that wants to grow into a big business this is the firm you want. Provides great advice for growth, planning and structing so that you as a business owner can take advantage of all the tax deduction given by the IRS.
I know this is a long review but if you are looking for a life long business partner and tax expert, read my personal experience. Susan Carter CPA, P.A. is simply the BEST CPA and business solutions expert I have ever met. I have worked with numerous tax and business professionals over the last 17 years. When I came to them after getting a recommendation from a colleague, I explained my current tax situation that spanned over 4 years. Within 2 weeks, my issues were resolved, the major stress I had went
Our family has been using Susan's wonderful services for about 8 years now and have been so grateful to have found her. She has gotten us out of trouble with the IRS, reduced the fees and professionally represented us while compassionately holding our hands through the process! Her accounting advise has benefited us. We actually enjoy the tax process knowing that we will be cared for well.
When it comes to taxes I would personally recommend Cody to assist with all my accounting needs. I have asked at least a hundred questions when it came to completing my taxes and Cody?s patient, knowledge, and understanding has been greatly appreciated. This family owned business doesn?t feel like I?m going to another tax firm and I?m a number. Cody, Mr. Homesley, and Kim make me feel like family.
John and the entire staff at Susan Carter CPA are awesome. They are available throughout the year for questions, they go into great detail with my company and personal tax needs and I feel confident that all my tax and accountant needs are being met. I could probably find a more affordable accountant, but I don't think my business would be in as good of hands.
We have been a client of Susan Carter's for three years. He knowledge of current and past tax laws is amazing. You are not just a number with Susan and her staff. They will go that extra mile to make sure you get the most possible each year. You can trust they will be in your corner should an issue ever arise.
I have been a client of Susan Carter, CPA, for approximately 3 years now and I absolutely love the staff. I have worked with Dutchen, Susan, Carla and John personally. Dutchen is usually the first person I see when I walk in the door and she always greets me and my husband with a big smile and greets us using our names and even hugs! They all have taken the time to not only know us as clients but also personally. Dutchen knows some of my health issues and always asks how I?m feeling, but also asks me a
Susan Carter is more than a CPA. She takes a personal interest in her clients and is always ready to help. I know. Having been diagnosed with double pneumonia, I could not do my bank reconciliation. She and her awesome staff was there for me.
I use Susan Carter as my accountant for my small business and I love her services. She is very patient explaining the proper use of quickbooks and answering all of my tax questions. The whole office staff is very professional as well. I highly recommend her for small business accounting!
I'm in the military and was referred by a coworker. My taxes are not that complicated to file but my experience with Susan Cater's firm was way below sub par. In the end I did not end up filing with her but if I did I would have owed the IRS over $6K plus $450 for her service. My new guy is a prior IRS auditor and now I'm getting a $3500 return....that's a $10K swing!!!!! First, she charges you a $200 retainer right off the bat (Should have realized what was going on right there, and I'll never see that mo
I have personally been a business owner in excess of 25 years. After you have done this for so long you get a bit "cocky". During my first visit with Susan she began explaining what we need to do, I was thinking "Okay...done this before". As she kept going, my thoughts were like "Oh okay...that's why I do that". Pretty soon it was "HECK! I didn't know that!". Susan took the time to explain why I should be doing the things I do and how to make the best use of "our" time. I am sure that the difference in cho
Susan Carter, and her entire staff, are amazing! As a new business owner they were extremely helpful keeping me apprised of everything I needed to make succeeding easier. Tax season was a breeze. They make it easy.
Susan, Dutchen and team have been there from the beginning for me. They have guided me throughout the process of starting my own business, and have assisted me in the during the tax season. I couldn't have done this without them. I highly recommend this group for personal and/or professional financial guidance.
I am completely at a loss for some tax and small business issues we are having with my husband's company. I called to see if this is where I need to start to iron out our issues. The women who took my call dutchen spent at least 15 mins with me discussing what it is they can do for me and listened to what is our problem and made me feel as if I was already a client. I do read reviews but 80%of the time I go on first introduction. They definitely have my business. Great customer service..
I look forward to Susan's Seminar every year.... I always learn something ..... Susan and her staff have always been wonderful to me..... I am so grateful to have them available.....
The staff are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. They are also attentive and responsive to the needs of my small business. We would highly recommend them. Darman's Props, LLC
I would never recommend this company to anyone. Poor customer service, impossible to reach and very unprofessional.
Excellent, timely service. Very knowledgeable. Have recommended to others.
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.