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John H Brands CPA

John H Brands CPA

Reviews Summary

The reviews overwhelmingly praise the accountant for being responsive, knowledgeable, and friendly, with many highlighting his efficiency, digital process, and ability to handle complex tax situations. Multiple reviewers recommend his services, noting his reasonable pricing and professionalism. However, one negative review mentions an oversight with a state tax return and dissatisfaction with communication during an audit. Most clients express long-term satisfaction and trust in his expertise.

About This Listing

Accounting
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
QuickBooks

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Accounting
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
QuickBooks

Contact Information

Address

1016 W Jackson Blvd

Chicago, Illinois 60607

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday 9AM-5PM
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday 9AM-5PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

I've had the pleasure of working with John, and I'm impressed by his professionalism and commitment to getting things right. He has navigated our financial complexities with ease and proven to be an invaluable asset to our financial goals. I wholeheartedly recommend John for anyone seeking a reliable and skilled personal accountant.

I was looking for a new CPA and found John Brands by chance through reading reviews online. I'm really glad I connected with him. His process was streamlined. He was able to do everything digitally which I appreciated. He was extremely responsive. He was also less expensive than my previous CPA, who required paper documents to be filled out. He was very knowledgeable on backdoor Roth IRAs and gave me pointers that my previous CPA neglected to tell me. I'll file with John again next year and recommen

John is amazing. His knowledge, confidence and good nature brought me great relief when I brought my complicated personal tax issues to him. He is equally as adept at handling my small business accounting, and i'll be recommending his services to my friends and fellow entrepreneurs for sure.

John is an exceptional accountant. 2016 was the first time I was filing as a 1099 and he walked me all the way through it. Come prepared and he will get all of your taxes completed very quickly! He is both efficient and a super nice guy to work with! Highly recommend!

I've been working with John for the past 3-4 years. John has been accurate, timely and friendly through all my different needs: my digital agency S-Corp business before, during and after a transaction (sale of company), personal taxes, starting up a new company in a new state (LLC), and training me on how to do quickbooks online and assisting with choosing the right accounting software (vs Quickbooks). I recommend him for companies in Chicago and the state of Illinois, and now he's handling my accounting in

I would caution anyone looking to use John for their tax-filing purposes. All seemed to be good and well, until it wasn't. I used John's services for two years. The first year was pretty standard. The second year we had a few issues with a non-Illinois state tax return, where an issue was overlooked and we later were contacted by that state that we had unpaid taxes. This is a scary situation, no doubt, but it was eventually resolved - not quickly, but he showed a little urgency. My major disappointment wa

John is amazing! I've worked with him for 2 years and the process is nothing but smooth. He's helped me make this process not a nightmare! its nice to have a " real person " to answer the hard questions.

Very great experience with John. He is very responsive and friendly. He also finished my taxes very fast. I would definitely recommend him. Thanks again John for your help!

John is a great guy. Very friendly, easy to talk to and he exudes an attention to detail you want in a CPA.

Been going to John for years and couldn't be happier. He offers great advice, is honest and friendly with reasonable pricing. I highly recommend!

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.

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