*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.*
6 Hawkeye Dr #101
North Liberty, Iowa 52317
We?ve been working with Greg for years?even after moving out of Iowa City, we still rely on him for all our accounting needs. He?s trustworthy, knowledgeable, and always offers helpful advice. We truly enjoy working with him and highly recommend his services!
As a business owner, I don't have the time & expertise to do my own taxes. Hiring Greg has been one of the best decisions I've made for my business. He does a great job of explaining accounting & tax terms in simple terms that I could understand. Highly recommend Greg's CPA firm to any other business owners in the Iowa City area.
100% recommend Greg makes tax season easy! He?s helped me with my e-commerce business and rental properties.
We are new to working with Greg and are so impressed with his level of professionalism and expertise. He translates tax strategy and information in a way that is easy to understand. In addition, he is personable and responsive and we are so pleased to work with him.
As landlords, we can't recommend Greg highly enough! His expertise and attention to detail have been invaluable in managing our properties and optimizing tax savings. Greg always goes the extra mile to add value. On several occasions, I've called with a simple question, and not only did he provide a concise answer, but he also proactively offered creative insights and ideas into other aspects of our business to implement.
I couldn't be more satisfied with Greg's help, knowledge, and expertise. I was on a search for a new CPA after being left dissatisfied with a former firm and from the first conversation he provided clarity and understanding of our current tax situation of the business. It is clear he is highly skilled at his craft but is also an excellent communicator and ensured I understood what he was talking about when it came to strategies and even a few fixes of previously made mistakes. Going forward, Greg will be ou
I only recently began working with Greg, but in our short time working together it?s abundantly clear that he is knowledgeable, prompt, and very thorough. I am appreciative for the assistance he has provided not only for my business, but also for my personal accounting needs.
Greg has been my business and personal accountant for five years. He is fastidious, communicative, and great at educating me about my accounting needs. I have recommended Greg to friends and colleagues and will continue to do so
I've known and enjoyed working with Greg for many years. He is always timely, thoughtful and helps come up with solutions I wouldn't have considered.
Greg is very knowledgeable and responsive to any questions or concerns. I highly recommend his services!
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.