*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.*
2031 2nd Ave E #310
Hibbing, Minnesota 55746
Joe came highly recommended to me by my father, who runs real estate and restaurants in Minneapolis. I asked Joe to prepare my federal tax return for this year. Through phone calls and a secure portal online, I was able to quickly and safely send him all of my materials. Joe is very approachable and knowledgeable. I very comfortably relied on his skills to complete my taxes. Though my taxes were a small job, he treated me with the same level of priority I would have expected if I were a bigger client.
Jerulle CPA, LLC has my full trust and respect. Joe has been assisting my personal and business tax needs for the past 7 years. I followed Jerulle from a large CPA firm to his Private Practice. It was a no-brainer! I was excited to start working directly with Joe Jerulle, as I knew this would help me grow and understand my Business even further. Jerulle CPA truly earns my business year after year. He is a wealth of knowledge, that I find to be invaluable. Honest. Knowledgeable. Polite. Responsive. Hands O
Joe and his team are great! They make taxes and accounting easy as any solid CPA firm should. However, Joe has taken it a step further by providing book keeping advice and connecting us with other local professionals to help support our business.
I run an appraisal business in the Twin Cities and always used to hate April 15th, for obvious reasons. I would scramble to put my books together and then go to some cut rate tax shop. Then it happened?the AUDIT. This was a two year ordeal and cost thousands of dollars. I reached out to Joe during this time, and he helped me get through the audit. I?ve been a loyal customer since. He does things the correct way and has made my life much easier. I no longer worry about my books or my taxes because I kn
Joe did a great job and answered every question we had while we did our taxes. He responded in a timely manner when contacted and the whole process was efficient. He was both friendly and professional. Would highly recommend him
Knowledgeable, professional guy with a great sense of humor.
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.