*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.*
8 Fairfield Blvd
Wallingford, Connecticut 06492
I was fortunate to find Carl. He shared some of his expertise regarding how assets hidden during a divorce can be located and recommendations of attorneys who deal with this. He was empathetic and took the necessary time to explain financial concepts at a layman's level. I greatly appreciate his help and would highly recommend his services.
Excellent and efficient work - Helming & Co. provided our business with a sound and quick financial assessment and thorough meeting. I definitely recommend Carl and his team.
Had the pleasure of speaking with Carl Helming regarding an organizational matter my team is working through. He was incredibly knowledgebable, patiently listened to me describe our challenges, asked really great questions, and overall demonstrated empathy and awareness of how such matters can impact those involved. He provided me with resources to follow up on and I'm grateful for time we were able to chat. Thank you.
I cannot say enough great things about this firm. We had a long, complex history with various problems that no other place could fix or get straightened out. This is literally an office of geniuses. They are the perfect blend of professionalism yet being sensitive to our situation. Could not recommend any higher!
I cannot say enough good things about Michelle Words cannot be enough Michelle has been patient, Kind and understanding she has helped me tremendously. She makes you feel like you are her most important client Michelle is a great listener and finds ways to handle any situation you may be in. I had a lot different scenarios coming in my direction and she was able to get them resolved She are always available to answer questions, and respond to my inquiries same day. She are thoughtful and take the time expl
We have been using Helming & Company, P.C. For years. We started when we wanted someone to review our previous year?s tax return to ensure it was correct and they were so personable and helpful. Since then filing taxes with them has been easy and efficient. I would recommend them without a second thought. They are timely and easy to contact and always available to answer our questions.
We are in probate court and needed help with forensic accounting audits . Spoke directly with Mr Helming. He was so compassionate, honest and understanding. This is the person you want in your corner .
This firm is excellent beyond words! I have enjoyed their services and expert advice for the past 24 years . Carl was instrumental in rescuing our 45 year old business in 1995, and has been both an ally and a friend ever since. The staff at Helming and Co is highly qualified and caring. You cannot go wrong in choosing Carl. He will save you more than he costs and you can rest assured that you will have absolutely the best advice in the accounting world!
Helming & Company, P.C. is a pleasure to work with! Over the years, they have helped our organization to realize significant capital savings with their detailed business advisory services, corporate tax return services and consultation sessions. Helming & Company team's prowess and expertise have also assisted our firm with improving operating efficiencies and lowering costs. They have also provided services to us after business hours and on weekends so that we could meet our customer deliverables.
I am very grateful to have had the opportunity for a consultation with Carl E. Helming, 20 minutes on the phone, and he put my situation in to a better perspective then any of my lawyers have been able to do. He was knowledgeable, helpful and empathetic.
I had always done my own taxes until a few years ago when I couldn't sell my condo and ended up renting it. I knew I needed professional assistance. Michelle helped me understand everything with the utmost professionalism. I find the workbook they send out at the beginning of the year to be extremely helpful. I highly recommend this firm.I highly recommend this firm.
As a small business owner, I highly recommend Helming & Company to anybody looking to feel more in control of their finances! My husband and I first met Carl close to a year ago when we initially felt like we needed to take the next step to grow our business. From the beginning Carl was open and responsive ? he met with us just to get a sense of how things were going & offer advice, but if you want the honest truth, we just weren?t ready to hear what he had to say at the time. I remember after he left I fe
Carl Helming is a solid business man with common sense solutions to complex problems. A consummate professional looking not just at the day to day challenges of his clients but the future opportunities available to those dedicated to the success of their business.
I have to say by far the best in the business. As a small business owner it sometimes is scary to go see "The Accountant" this office makes being a business owner a bit easier and lighter. Sue helped us learn our quick books file in no time. Very knowledgeable, friendly and easy going. I would and have recommended this office to anyone who wants to succeed. Thanks again Sue!!
I'm had the opportunity to work with Carl directly and he very helpful and knowledgeable about the constantly changing tax laws. If you are looking for someone that goes the extra mile to keep money in your pocket, this is the place to do it.
I have now worked with this firm since 2012. I find them to be knowledgeable responsive, and on top of ever changing tax laws. They also offer many additional services in addition to tax preparation. They have become a trusted partner for me in my business. Mark D
I've been using Helming & Company, P.C. for over a decade. They have made a complicated matter far easier to navigate. Pleasant and professional. Highly recommended.
Thank you so much for taking time today on a question about sales and use tax. This was my first call to your office and you took the time out if your day !!! I will be happy to refer you to anyone needing your service !
Carl Helming is a caring accountant, who really knows how to dig in to a project. Nobody understands the numbers better than Carl.
Very responsive and did detailed work on my (complex) taxes. Had a great experience.
We have used Helming & Company for several years and would highly recommend them.
always, friend and professional. If there were more than 5 stars Helming & Co would get them.
Extremely professional and competent.100% recommended!!
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.