*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.*
130 Research Pkwy
Meriden, Connecticut 06450
It's been a real pleasure working with Dave this year on my tax return. The entire experience was smooth and professional. Compared to accountants I've worked with in the past, Dave stood out for being highly responsive ? something I truly value and hope never changes. He took the time to answer all my questions, addressed every concern thoroughly, and offered excellent advice tailored to my personal and business situation. I especially appreciated how easy it was to bundle both personal and business tax m
I have been a customer of Lake Accounting and Tax for the past 15+ years and have been very happy with their performance in that time. Dave and his team are very attentive to detail and provide excellent and very responsive customer service. To be recommended for sure!
Dave Lake has been my accountant for over a decade. He is trustworthy and incredibly competent. Even when I don't get him everything on time, he still hustles to get my taxes done by the deadline. He has made the whole daunting process of taxes easy!
Over the past several year, and I am talking about ten, I have used Lake financial services for tax returns and advice. David has demonstrated the ability to view the entire scope of my needs, wants, desires in relation to financial reality. I am in a better place today than I was a decade ago.I recommend him highly.??
Dave is an excellent accountant, knowledgeable and very friendly. Drop off is super easy with a quick turnaround. Services are fast and his staff are kind and friendly, not only do they do taxes but bookkeeping as well which I plan to switch to him this year. Highly recommend!
As a stock and option Trader, was really hard to find a CPA that can understand the ins and out of my work. I am very happy to find Lake Accounting this year. They did great work and I am very happy with them.
Dave was recommended to me by a friend who also runs her own business. He was an amazing support to me as I started my business. I trust his counsel completely. He always has a good reason for any recommendation he makes. He is a wonderful teacher as well as an astute accountant. You will not go wrong with him and his wonderful support person, Denise!
This is my 10th year with Lake Accounting, and as always, very happy with the personalized service I receive! Dave and his staff are awesome!
Dave is a great accountant has helped me out for years. Highly recommended.
Lake Accounting business customer for 10+ years here. Dave has been insightful and consistent the whole time. I get a lot of value out of my long term work with a pro like him.
Dave Lake has been my accountant for years now and I can't thank him enough for his services. Dave takes the time to help you understand the numbers side of your business so you can run the day to day operations with less stress. It's also nice to know that when I have questions I can reach out to him and he gets back to me quickly. If you need a CPA, Dave is your guy. Call him, you'll be glad you did
Excellent accounting services. They take care of my company and personal taxes. Very thorough and competent.
After a long search for a tax accountant, I was incredibly fortunate to find Dave. From our initial conversation, it was clear that he is a trustworthy professional and an expert in his field. It has been a relief to work with him as I can now focus solely on running and growing my business. Cannot recommend more highly.
Dave and his team have been providing my business with tax advice for years. He's accessible, reliable and accurate. I highly recommend him!
Dave has been an invaluable asset to me running my LLC.
I have used Dave to do my accounting for over 10 years and he always does a great job with my business and personal taxes. Dave always spends the time to explain what we are doing and why. I have recommended Dave to several friends and family members with confidence he can help them with any accounting issues they may have.
Thanks to the staff at Lake Accounting for great service. Always a pleasure working with you.
Dave has handled both our company's financials and well as our personal financials. He is super personable and extremely knowledgeable! Great attention to detail and extremely responsive. Highly recommended by Disability Planning Partners
Dave, has been a great help to me in filing my taxes and keeping track of my expenses. For the work he does for me and my business he charges very fairly, too. I'm confident in his services, he answers all my questions, and I'm looking forward to getting more complex business matters tackled because he's extremely capable! Please do yourself a favor and start working with him today. Thanks Dave!
Dave Lake, Lake Financial Services, provides accounting and business management consulting and solutions for my business and my clients. He delivers services thoroughly, kindly, and promptly. My experience over the past 5 years has been consistently outstanding.
David Lake has been my accountant for ten years. I am an extremely picky person with very high expectations. I always consider all my options. I have never had occasion or reason to seek another, therefore, I proudly recommend Lake Financial Services highly and without reservation.
Lake Financial Services is the best! They provide unparalleled service and quality to clients. My business has used Lake Financial Services for over 10 years. We highly recommended them.
Quick to respond, attentive to detail and very understanding of what it takes to help the small business owner. I recommend business owners who want to understand their options and PLAN accordingly call Lake Accounting & Tax LLX
Dave always helps me through any tax questions I have. Very responsive and amazing service! I highly recommend!!
Excellent CPA. Personalized Service. Highly recommend.
Professional, well managed business
Best accounting firm around, knowledgeable and professional.
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.