*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.*
8480 Honeycutt Rd
Raleigh, North Carolina 27615
I am so grateful to have found Lauren. We had fallen behind in our relationship with the IRS, and I felt wounded, stuck, nervous, and ashamed. It was affecting our lives and our relationship. With Lauren?s help, we caught up quickly last year, and now we?re completely on track?this season, we even filed our taxes early! It feels miraculous?truly a great gift. Lauren brings a remarkable blend of professional excellence and genuine humanity to her work. She is dedicated, trustworthy, and maintains great bou
Can?t say enough about Lauren?s professionalism and follow through on her work . I had an old tax issue that needed to be addressed and she has been a life saver. Her communication is also amazing. Would recommend her to family and friends.
Lauren has been consistent in her competence, patience, and professionalism throughout the process of assisting me with my tax issues. And she completed everything in a timely manner. She always responded to calls and emails quickly, which most businesses DON'T DO THESE DAYS. I would HIGHLY recommend her services!!! Lauren provided quick updates and is very thorough! You will NOT be disappointed!!!
Lauren is wonderful! We spoke with other tax professionals first, and felt like we had no options. She has worked hard for us, she is very professional and personable, and we feel that she has our best interest at heart. My husband and I both agree that Lauren is the best in Raleigh.
Lauren Massie at Simply Taxes is everything that you need in a tax and accounting professional. She's knowledgeable, diligent, responsive, friendly, and makes the most complicated tax issues very simple and easy to understand. She was adept at solving a tax problem that I had encountered and helped me see it through to the end, all over the course of more than one year. She followed up with the IRS through the shutdown and kept me up to speed on what to expect. I love having Lauren in my corner and feel mor
Lauren is PHENOMENAL! I found myself in a tricky situation and was referred to Lauren by another CPA. She was very responsive and informative throughout the entire process and I could tell from our first conversation she knew her stuff. Her professionalism, integrity and communication is unsurpassed and I will only call Lauren from now on for any of my future finance/tax matters. Thank you again Lauren!
Update: September 23, 2022 Note: The business owner (Lauren Massie) later reached out to me directly and was warm, positive, and extremely helpful. She sought to better understand my customer service experience and thoroughly addressed my questions related to her services. I was very impressed with my direct interaction with her. She mentioned that she spoke to her staff to investigate my customer experience and seemed to genuinely care about my initial encounter with her business. I am grateful that s
This woman is a miracle worker. My husband and I were close to being homeless because of how much the IRS was garnishing. She.was able to save us! She is fairly priced, communicative, kind, and on your side!
Awesome service, timely, honest and knowledgable! I highly recommend Lauren!
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.