*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.*
20 Lake St N STE 103
Forest Lake, Minnesota 55025
Mary's been doing our taxes for the last 5 years we have a house here and rental property in Arizona and she is really good at getting us discounts and credits.
Jon Moulton tax service has been doing our taxes for close to 10 years now and we have always been very satisfied with the Job they have done for us. The professionalism they have shown us in handling our tax needs is second to none! Thank you Mary for taking care of us so well!
I have nothing but great things to say about Jon Moulton Accounting. I first started having them file my taxes back in the 90?s as a young college student and they kept me as a loyal customer for most of my adult life. Over the years, they have always made me feel welcomed, appreciated, and comfortable that I was receiving great guidance. This is a long time family business that is really good at what they do?and you can tell that they happen to be great people as well. If you want high quality service whil
Don?t say you can get tax done in two weeks then try to say you have a shortage of staff and now you only work two days a week so it will take four weeks now. Just be honest, it not hard
Front people were nice. Lady came from the back and was very arrogant and rude, asking how bad do I want my taxes as if its not a felony to not file taxes. Will never come here again
Jon Moulton Accounting has been preparing my taxes for many years, and have been especially helpful since my husband?s passing four years ago. Thank you, Mary and Wally, for all your professionalism and thoughtfulness.
I have been using Moulton Accounting services since 1984. They have been professional, personable, and have always had extremely reasonable pricing. I have referred many friends with no complaints.
I have been having my taxes done here for several years. Wally always handles my returns, and he does everything flawlessly and quickly. I have never actually even stepped foot at their office, I do everything online. So simple! Worth every penny.
They have been very patient with our process and I did not receive sticker shock at their fees. We will keep using them going forward. They definitely took my headache away
I went here for about 5 to 6 years and had a gap because of moving I tried getting a second opinion on my taxes and they were extremely rude. I really enjoyed them previously but not with the new people working there. I can tell it's very cliquey. They will talk down to you and then try to make you think you are the problem! Nice job gas lighting. She was mad because she was explaining a tax process and I didn't understand what she was saying, well miss mam, it would be just like me trying to explain my jo
This was our first year using Jon Moulton for our taxes. Very reasonable. The when I needed help with filing our property taxes they were so very helpful. I couldn't figure out the property tax refund from a prior year. I was helped by a very nice lady over the phone. She took the time to walk me through each step. Thank you so very much! I highly recommend this company.
I cannot even begin to explain how satisfied we are with them as our tax preparers this year, I am over the moon happy! They made it a point to call and ask questions, review my previous years return and ask for things that even I missed. Mary is phenomenal and wonderful to work with: patient, knowledgeable and willing to help. Their front office staff is very kind as well, but their process to setup new clients with their portal is very wonky that I found difficult and not straight forward; this was a m
My husband and I used Jon Moulton Accounting for the first time last year. GREAT people who do a great job and at great prices! We couldn't be happier and we'll definitely be using them every year going forward.
Been going to them to get my taxes done for years. Won't go anywhere else.
Highly recommend Wally! Best tax experience I?ve had. Really easy to schedule, appointment was fast, and very thorough.
My experience at Moulton is, was, and shall still be amazing. Always there for any questions to be answered. Loretta is very professional, loved her right away when I 1st talked on the phone with her.
Been seeing them for several years now and they?ve been great each time. I refer to everyone I know for their efficiency and professionalism. Thank you for all you do for me!
Was referred here by a few people and I am in shock how quickly and efficiently this appt went. Thank you so much for taking care of my taxes professionally and efficiently; I sincerely appreciate it.
Thank you for all your help and friendly staff.
They are awesome! As we are prepairing to move they will come with us? M
I give a zero for service, Wally was the most unhelpful person did not ask one question.
Been using them for 30 yrs
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.