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Laura Hipes CPA Ltd

Laura Hipes CPA Ltd

Reviews Summary

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight exceptional service, deep tax expertise, and professionalism. Many long-term clients praise accuracy, trustworthiness, and clear communication. Reviewers consistently mention thorough explanations of tax matters, responsiveness to questions, and reliable handling of complex situations. Several note continuing service despite moving away. The only negative review criticizes professionalism. Most emphasize strong recommendations, with many clients returning for years or decades due to consistent satisfaction with results and personal attention.

About This Listing

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.*

Contact Information

Address

216 W Washington St

Ottawa, Illinois 61350

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 11AM-8PM
Tuesday 11AM-8PM
Wednesday 11AM-8PM
Thursday 11AM-8PM
Friday 11AM-8PM
Saturday 11AM-8PM

Customer Reviews

I have been a client of Laura's since 2003, so it's now 20 solid years of being completely satisfied. She was always accurate with my taxes and always up to date with the current tax laws. For my ex girlfriend Laura's corrected 10 years of unfiled taxes and researched the laws of that time. Laura does her homework and is very accurate in her work. I completely trust her with everything. Some people say that they're the best but Laura is the best. If you're not going to her to get your taxes done by her you'

Laura is the best!! I have been using her as my tax preparer for many years and she always does a phenomenal job! She gets us the maximum refund amount and makes the process so easy for us. I originally lived near her office but moved away a couple years later and she continues to handle my return via email with no issues. She?s always available to answer emails or phone calls if I have any issues/questions and she walks me through any new changes that happen for that specific filing year. She is extremely

Laura has been my CPA over 10 years through many life changes. Great communicator whether by phone, email, or in person. I have been out of state during tax season the past 3 years, and she has been able to continue working with me with no delays. I appreciate her thoroughness and attention to detail. It is such a relief to have someone like Laura in my life where I can delegate a task and know it is being handled correctly and with care. 10/10 would recommend Laura's services!

I've been going to Laura for over 10 years. She has always done an excellent job. She is very patient and understanding; taking the time to make sure you fully understand everything(tax returns). I highly recommend!

Laura is friendly, professional, and detail oriented. She knows and follows tax laws and keeps up with any changes. My husband and I have confidence that our taxes will be correct and filed without any problems. We definitely recommend Laura Hipes CPA!

I have been using Laura for my taxes for many years and couldn't be more satisfied. I have since moved from the area but I still use her services at tax time every year. Laura is friendly, down to earth and very thorough. Over the years she has earned my complete trust and her integrity is impeccable. I would recommend Laura to anyone looking for help with their taxes and the peace of mind knowing they will be done correct and on time.

Laura is a great CPA for our taxes. So happy we found her. She's very friendly and easy to sit and talk with. She will explain anything you want in detail to you about your tax returns. She has worked with us for a few years and we couldn't be happier. Pricing is very fair especially for the amount of personal attention we feel we get with Laura. We will continue services with her as long as she's around!

Laura has been a wonderful adviser over the past 5 years in providing me solid advice and direction through all my tax endeavors (and there have been many). She is extremely knowledgeable in her field and will explain things every step of the way so that you are enlightened going forward in your tax decisions. Every time I have a question or concern, I am able to call or communicate with Laura via email and she not only responds in a timely manner, but provides detailed insight so that I am not left with c

Laura helped last year with an amended return due to several errors from previous tax preparer. Laura was very professional, thorough and quick with preparing this years taxes as well.

We go back year after year because Laura is so honest, knowledgeable, and takes her time to keep us informed. We always tell everyone we know about her services! I can?t imagine we would ever go anywhere else!

Laura has been preparing my tax documents for over 15 years. She is an excellent CPA and highly recommended.

Hands on, Laura is professional, current on all the new tax laws and very pleasant. I trust her to do the BEST job for me.

Laura has done our taxes for over 20 years. She is very knowledgeable in the tax laws and always handled our taxes promptly.

Laura makes doing your taxes a breeze. She is very professional and thorough. I highly recommend using her.

Very professional and knowledgeable about taxes. Friendly environment. She spends time explaining your taxes too you. Prices are very good for what she offers. She stands behind her work.

Laura's expertise in the TAX realm is impressive, and I would refer anyone in her direction if you are in need of tax preparation !!

I've been going to Laura for about 16 years and have had nothing but good experience with her. I recommend her to everyone one. Thank you Laura for your hard work

I have been going to Laura for years! Top notch service, extremely detailed and accurate tax preparation. Highly recommended

Great service, with kind and caring heart for what she does to ensure the job gets done right! Im glad she took care of me and I will be returning.

Laura hipes cpa is a awesome place .Laura is wonderful. She's help me so much .I do recommend Laura Hipes

If you want a Girl that knows her stuff, this is the one. Very smart in her field. Wife and I like her. A very nice lady too talk to.

She is far from a professional. She is trash and so is her work ethic.

Quick, professional been going there for years. Outstanding service.

Great service, very pleasant, experienced, and knowledgeable!

Laura is very knowledgeable and trustworthy.

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.