*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.*
821 W State St Ste A
Geneva, Illinois 60134
Kathleen and her team are by far the best in the business! I use them for all of my business accounting needs as well as my personal accounting needs and they surpass exceptional care. I would never entrust anybody else moving forward when it comes to my taxes and i refer as many people as I can as they truly are like no other tax accountants. They're reliable, they communicate with you all along the way, and they make things that sound very scary in the tax world not so scary. I couldn't say enough good th
Excellent service! Kathleen and her team completed both my personal and business returns. The process was extremely organized and seamless - especially for my business. She promptly responded to my questions. She also promptly prepared my ERC Tax Refund documents. I was looking for a new accountant after using the same company for 10+ years. I am extremely satisfied with Kathleen's professionalism and expertise. I can strongly recommend her for personal and business accounting services.
Kathleen is an enthusiastic and always smiling accountant. She did a great job with our privat tax. She responds to all my phone calls and emails quick, she is very knowledgable and trustworthy. I also use her as my accountant for my business. She safes us a lot of time and money. I highly recommend her.
Truly outstanding service. I was in a dire situation with all the last minute tax questions from a lender and my mortgage loan closing was in jeopardy. We were about to lose our dream house. Kathleen offered to see me within an hours notice- although we were 2 weeks away from 4/15. I can tell she didn't have time but was touched by my situation. Since I didn't have all the documents required to amend my return (form 1040X) she guided me over the phone (20 minute call!) how to best do it through the tax s
Year after year of great, reliable service! After my CPA of 20 years from the far south suburbs retired, I was anxious about choosing her replacement. With Kathleen Dienhart, it has been year after year of great reliable service!! Very professional, knowledgeable and dependable! I highly recommend her and her team!
I will definitely be going back to Kathleen year after year. She is so easy to talk to and work with. I am very happy with the advice she gave me about my personal taxes. I will be recommending her.
We went in for an hour long consultation for tax planning purposes. Kathy was extremely friendly, thorough, and great at explaining accounting lingo in layman?s term. We love how discrete she was. Definitely would recommend her to everyone. She is the ?go to person? for taxes. Thank you.
TL;DR: Very disappointed and concerned about the quality of work. Lack of communication/poor organization/numerous mistakes. Details below: This year was the first year I decided to use a CPA for my taxes. I spoke with a few CPAs and chose Kathleen after I was pleased with her responses/experience. I was told my taxes would be completed in around two weeks. After signing an engagement letter, my account was set up and I was told a checklist/paperwork would be sent for me to complete. Awesome! In the meant
I?ve never used an accountant before, I?ve always used TurboTax to save money. When I think of all the money I could?ve saved using Kathy instead I get a little sick. She?s extremely knowledgeable, understanding, available and fast. I highly recommend.
Kathleen is an excellent accounting and tax professional. She has solutions for difficult tax/accounting situations you or your company may face. Hire and listen to Kathleen!
I am so grateful to have Kathleen helping with our tax this year as there are many changes in the tax forms for 2018. She is very professional, efficient and friendly, having a lot of patience with all my questions.
we had an in person meeting , and she lost all my paperwork , she does not remember most of the meeting , she should not be handling personal information , who has all my personal information if she doesnt?
Amazing! Can not say enough good things, honestly! My taxes were an absolute mess and from day one they made me feel comfortable and started me back on the right track. Highly recommend!
Very friendly and prompt 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.