*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.*
668 N River Rd
Naperville, Illinois 60563
More than a decade of high quality service to our pension fund and all of our participants. All members of the L&A team who have been involved with our fund present themselves professionally. They have all been very responsive to our needs throughout the years. There are too many to list and thank here. Currently, Michelle Rice works directly with our fund and we cannot ask for better working relationship. Michelle has set herself apart. Our board highly recommends the L&A team.
I am very pleased with the level of service provided! They take care of the accounting needs for both of my businesses and personal taxes. Andy, Liz and Eric have all been great to work with.
I am very disappointed in the poor service I received. I faxed my taxes to them and never received a confirmation that the paperwork was received. I emailed and received a very rude response response Telling me they had and they would let me know if they needed anything else. I did not receive any more communication until I called them only to find out they were missing information. The information was faxed to them the same day. Again no communication. My taxes are now late. This is highly unprofessi
The personal and professional service is outstanding. Questions are answered very quickly and tax forms are completed in a timely manner and professionally done. Liz and Andy are very easy to work with and very knowledgeable. Great tax service
Terrible company. Watch out for who they send to you. The one sent Tanya Walker is very unprofessional and vindictive to employees. She needs some management classes. And the other person they sent Michael Ducharme only saw employees once. Maybe good at accounting but do not let this company manage your business.
A 5 Star rating across the board for Andy & Liz. They are always available to answer my questions and willing to go the extra mile for whatever it takes. I have been a long time client and will continue to refer clients to them.
My husband and I have had our taxes done at Lauterbach & Amen for years! The service and price are great, and the staff is very professional. I can trust that my taxes are done correctly!
We have had out taxes done at L&A for the last 2 years. They saved us money compared to our last tax accountant and they finished the work in a timely fashion.
Always responsive, thorough, and patient - all so important for accountant services. We?ve really enjoyed working together and appreciate the partnership for our personal and business needs. Thank you!
Very unprofessional staff. Doesn't return phone calls and doesn't send pension check copies out. Also doesn't provide tax forms either. States that "the mail service is unsafe to use" which is a really lazy excuse!! Pathetic ??
I have worked with Andrew Miriani since 1977. Always responsive in dealing with our needs along with those of our lenders.
Very professional and quick response to my questions. Had issue resolved by the end of that business day! Thanks again Liz.!
Liz and Eric are Wonderful and help full. I highly recommend Lauterbach & Amen
Excellent service and very 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.