*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.*
581 NY-17M
Monroe, New York 10950
Joel Smith has been our accountant for the past 10 years. During that time, he has prepared both our business and personal tax returns. His office notifies us what we need to provide him. We have busy lives and it is a relief not to worry if our tax returns are properly filed. We highly recommend Joel for all your accounting needs.
Joel has been my tax accountant for about three years now. The service has been great. Joel is quick to rise to the occasion and help with any questions and issues that may arise. As a pharmacist in Connecticut, one of the most tax burdened state in the U.S, having a knowledgeable and creative accountant is quite valuable.
My husband and I have known Joel for a very long time...the professional services he handles for us began with the Personal and Corporate Accounting, and later included Payroll Processing, which made it so much easier to coordinate coordinate, plan and file our tax returns. Joel and his staff are very prompt in addressing questions, and are very courteous in following up what need be. I would highly recommend Joel for accounting, tax and payroll processing services!
Joel has been our CPA for a few years, since we moved to Monroe area. Hi is very reliable and always available to answer questions by phone and/or email. He's been a tremendous help with our personal and business taxes and estimates, and considering high quality of his services, they are surprisingly affordable. I will wholeheartedly recommend Joel Smith CPA to any person or small business who are looking for a good accountant.
I have been using Joel as my CPA since I was referred to him by multiple coworkers back in 2006 or 2007. Joel is great... I have moved 5 times between 3 different states and 4 different cities and he has still been able to help me out (NY, IN and CA). With those multiple moves to different states every year, things got messy with state taxes but Joel was amazing and helped me through all of it. No matter where I live, I will continue to use him. Thanks Joel!
Joel has been my family's CPA for years. I moved to Seattle in 2012 and still use his services. He is always available whenever I have any questions. He is also very personable and my parents and I love working with him.
Joel has been my CPA for the past 2 years ago. He is my ?go to? professional over google for every tax question I have. He asks questions before giving advice and always guides me in the right direction. I highly recommend Joel and his team for professional, diligent, and expedient service.
Joel and his team are very professional and friendly. Joel was super helpful when I had some last minute tax questions and responded promptly. He makes sure to speak in laymen?s terms when explaining some of the confusing tax requirements. I would definitely recommend this business for your tax and accounting needs.
I used Joel for 3 yrs, last time I used his service he used my tax info from the prior yr, which caused a lot of headache and frustration from my point with dealing with the IRS, then he had the audacity to charge me to fill the re-return!!! Not a trustworthy person/business. Be aware!!!!
We have been using Joel for our taxes since we moved to Orange County a few years ago. He has been a pleasure to work with, makes the process very seamless, and yet his fees are extremely reasonable for this area. He has been very friendly and caring of our needs, and always seems to be available to answer questions. As we are building a home here, we look forward to continue using his services for the years to come.
Joel Smith has done our returns for our corporations as well as our personal returns for over 15 years. We can find no fault. Particularly tumultuous have been the last 7-8 years when earnings alternated between 1099s and W-2s. Real estate transactions, mortgages and self-employment issues have all been woven into the mix. For Joel, no problem.
Joel Smith is an excellent CPA. He is very professional and looks out for my best interests. He prepares my taxes in a timely manner. I was looking for a new CPA a few years ago and am happy that I found him.
I have been using Joel Smith since 2013. Whenever I have a question or need a copy of my previous years tax returns, Joel and his staff are very prompt to reply or send me what I need. Joel makes everything so easy and simple I highly recommend him for your accounting needs.
Excellent fast service! Joel is very professional CPA. Every year for over 10 years, he makes sure my refund is maximized. Referred friends to Joel and they were happy too! IBEW Local 3 electrician.
My wife and I have been using Joel Smith CPA for roughly 7 years now. Initially when we were living in Monroe (and not yet married at the time) we were looking for someone who we could trust to take care of our taxes that was more local. Joel provided just what we needed, and we could count on him every year at tax time to meet with us, manage the whole process and get us our tax dollars back in a quick and timely fashion. A few years later we got married and moved out of Monroe to Newburgh, but still felt
Joel has been our CPA for over 15 years. He has always been very helpful and promptly answers any questions we have regarding taxes since we also have a rental property in MS but live in PA because of job change. He is knowledgeable about tax laws and honest. We trust him immensely. Thanks Joel! Nandini & Raju
Joel Smith has been our accountant for over 20 years. During that time he has helped us file our income tax returns for both New York and Connecticut. Our daughter also uses Joel for her tax returns. I can't imagine ever using anyone else !
I have known Joel for over ten years. I have always received prompt, courteous, professional service from both Joel and his staff. I wouldn't hesitate Joel to anyone for their accounting and/or tax needs.
Joel is very knowledgeable with the new tax laws and on point with personal and business tax returns. Feel confident that you will receive your max refund allowed.
Crook! Does not give any information on what you actually owe. Is not responsive. Does not help with the needs you actually have. Didn?t turn my taxes in and now I owe $700 more in penalties on an already high bill. Do not go to this person unless you want to be broke by the end of it.
Excellent service. Joel has taken care of my increasingly complicated returns for years. Recommended by a friend and I've been much happier for it at tax time.
Joel Smith is an excellent accountant and a true professional. We are lucky to have someone of his caliber in Monroe.
I have several sources of income from various states and the government. Joel and his team year after year are able to seamlessly navigate through the red tape and get my money back in my wallet.
This is my first time doing business with Joel Smith and it definitely won't be the last Mr Smith is very knowledgeable and a true professional.
Joel does very efficient work. He is good at what he does.
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.