*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.*
1808 S Illinois St
Belleville, Illinois 62220
I've had the pleasure of working with Jake, Carrie and her team for several years, and they consistently deliver exceptional service. Carrie is not only knowledgeable and professional, but also incredibly responsive throughout the year, always promptly addressing any questions or concerns I may have. Her team is efficient and effective, completing my taxes quickly and accurately. I highly recommend Carrie and her staff to anyone seeking reliable tax services.
I paid this company $3000 last year to do our book work and to tell me how much I need to pay in for my taxes. They didn't do there job at all. They had me paying pennies on the dollar to what was actually needing to be paid. I highly do not recommend this business or there services. The Shelbyville office is a joke. All the employees quit because this business is a joke!
Jake has been preparing my business & personal tax returns since 2015. I couldn't be more pleased with the excellent customer service received. As Jake's practice has expanded through acquisitions, he now has even more team members adding additional expertise while providing multiple reviews before submission. Yes, this has taken a bit longer than when I began working with him, but the firm's added attention to details & expertise is HIGHLY WORTH IT! And I always learn a great deal from our conversations
They want only "profit first" businesses. Does not want small businesses. My old CPA company Favazza & Associates was bought out by Jake Hottenrott. They have yet to tell me or other customers of this change or show any indication on the website. Instead, I found out because I got a letter that said on (FAVAZZA letterhead) that my recurring business fee for bookkeeping would be raising and I quote, a "modest amount" of 300% more each month. NOT an exaggeration. When I called, I was told I would have to
I have been with Jake for many years. His tax planning and strategies have helped grow my business and achieve the goals I have set each and every year. I have read some of the poor reviews and can understand frustrations for the timeliness, BUT... the thoroughness and the outcomes from this company go above and beyond any previous accountant I have ever had. One particular ABOVE AND BEYOND was just a week ago (Sept. 30, 2022). While I was traveling and actually IN THE AIR, I received a text from an employ
Cannot say enough good things about Jake and this office. Very knowledgeable and friendly staff. Great service and expertise! They were able to handle all of our tax/financial needs with ease. We highly recommend them!
Jake and his team provide excellent customer service year after year. I appreciate the efficient process they have allowing me to submit my information securely from the comfort of my home. They are quick and very responsive to questions I have. I wouldn?t think of going anywhere else!
I was a little apprehensive at the thought of dealing with new owners at Moon Accounting Services where we had been clients since January 2000. Moon Accounting have done all of our company and personal tax work since then. I can happily report that the transition has been seamless and easy. This is due mainly to Alycia Kapeller's going above and beyond for us. She handles payroll, taxes, union reporting, insurance audits, PPP, etc.,etc. She is extremely knowledgeable and helpful and has helped me troubles
Terrible service. Stay away. They are very SLOW in processing my tax returns. I submitted all documents in February and they only completed my files in mid-June. Then it takes them forever to get back to me on any questions and I still HAVE NOT been able to file my tax returns, all while accruing late fees by the IRS (which they did not even tell me about - I had to find out by myself). Communication is very poor as no one can give me an update about where things are. I try to email and call but no one pi
Jake Hottenrott and his associates took over for my previous accountant, John Durako. At first I was a little reluctant to let someone handle my taxes that I had never heard of before. But let me just say, he has been doing a great job since, and I would never let anyone else touch my taxes now that I?ve worked with this firm. Jake is a very polite and personal guy, and every time I?m there, we end up talking about all sorts of things. Not to mention I have been getting a nice tax return!! Also, have
New owners seem incompentent as to what they do for a job. Dropped my tax return off end of march. Was told 4 weeks which was understandable. June comes around and still no update. Called and was told she would talk to the people that do the taxes and would get back to me. July comes around and still nothing so I decide to stop by the office. The lady looks up my name and says my taxes jusr need "reviewd". Theb proceed to ask me if I got my stimulus checks which was asked when I dropped my taxes off. It is
Poor service and delayed tax documents for the first year I was with them. Staff was not helpful and very dismissive. Second year the tax documents were returned quickly after filing, but did not take into account our military status and state of legal residence vs state of employment. Will not be using them for a third year.
Jake has been doing our taxes for years. He always takes the time to answer all of our questions and is extremely responsive. I have no reservations recommending this accounting firm!
Hottenrott & Associates have done our taxes for many years and are always quick to respond to any questions I may have a does a terrific job. We highly recommend Jake and his firm.
I have been working with Jake and his team for years and have always had a great experience! They are thorough, timely, and quick to respond to any questions I might have. I highly recommend Hottenrott & Associates!
Jacob and his team are great to work with! Been using his firm for several years now. Highly recommend for all your tax services!
Hottenrott @ Asso. have done a stellar job with my taxes for 3 years now and I am very happy with their services. I will definitely continue to use them!!
Jake and his staff are some of the kindest people in the business. Having a professional who really cares makes all the difference. I strongly suggest!
Great Accounting Firm! Been with them for 10 years. I use them for both business and personal taxes.
Terrible customer service. Left us abandoned with very few days left to file a return and while traveling, only because we sent an email asking for clarification. Completely unprofessional, stay away!
I have been going to Jake for years and have nothing but faith in his ability and his ability to provide me the highest quality of service
I have been going to Durako Financial for years. They are always fast and friendly with reasonable prices.
Always thorough & wonderful customer service!
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.