*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.*
1433 S Missouri Ave
Clearwater, Florida 33756
I was initially hesitant to switch accounting services, knowing how complicated it can be to manage both business and personal taxes. However, I?m so glad I made the change! Linda and her team in Clearwater made the transition incredibly simple and stress-free. My previous accountant left me in the dark when it came to exploring options to reduce my tax bill, but Linda?s expertise and proactive approach have been a game-changer.
I used Linda for my personal taxes as well as multiple businesses. While with her, we constantly got notices from the IRS of things not being filed on time, and penalties we incurred due to this. We were always told, ?Don?t worry. Everything is handled. We?ll cover the cost of the penalties.? That never happened. Multiple years after moving my business and personal taxes elsewhere, I continue to have to pay my new CPA to fix all the mistakes and try to assist with resolving all of the issues Linda created f
Linda filed my 2021 personal taxes, 2 small businesses tax returns and a non profit tax return... In February 2022. I try to file early to miss all the rush. Linda rarely gave tax advice. When I email her, it takes her 1-2 weeks to reply. And when she replies, she doesn't provide much explanation. Recently, I got a letter from the IRS saying I didn't file my State F1120. I contacted her office three weeks ago... They didn't respond until I called them twice this week. She explained that she mailed the state
Decided to give Linda Jenkins CPA a shot this year after hearing great things from several professionals I have worked with in the past. I was not disappointed. From setting the appointment with Stephanie (who made sure I was aware of everything I needed to bring) to my consultation with Linda, everyone was extremely professional and friendly. I even discussed my business plans for the remainder of the year and Linda gave me some great advice to make sure I would be in a great position to file for 2020. Wis
I highly recommend! Professional staff, friendly and knowledgeable! Truly a one stop accounting service!
I cannot recommend enough - wonderful experience!
Do not go here! My fianc? and I met with Linda at the beginning of February 2022 and as of May 2022 there was not one time she communicated with us about our taxes. I emailed her all the information she requested on 02/19/22 and we called her office several times and were told don?t worry she?s handling everything, now we?re finding out that she didn?t even file an extension for us. We gave her the benefit of the doubt thinking because it was tax season she?s probably just busy but come to find out she neve
Linda was a real pleasure to consult with. I had to adjust my taxes for taking on a dependent, she was very knowledgeable, a great personality and helped me get a nice return. I'll continue using her services moving forward!
After 5 years of this office preparing and filing a simple 1040 form for me, who would have thought that a $4K tax paid by me to IRS would be overlooked by ?a professional?? Besides that, a weak apology and a disappearing act followed after they supposedly filed amended return. Individuals and business beware and seek accounting elsewhere. Should be zero Star rating but front desk service was good.
Linda is amazing.She helped us deal with the IRS and get them off of our backs.She helped straighten out years of unpaid taxes due to low income.If you need help this is the CPA to talk talk to. We will always be grateful to her and her staff for the excellent work they did helping is.
Thank you very much for all you have done for me my family & business. Linda & staff are amazing
Linda has been doing this for a long time. You can tell she really knows how to navigate taxes for small businesses. I file quarterly, and she made the process understandable and streamlined. I learned to save money and how to budget.
Fast and Professional, highly recommend Linda and her team!
Went in for a free consult, and the service and setting absolutely deterred me from choosing this place for small business accounting services. The building is very run down/dirty and upon entering, the receptionist area is very messy, which would make me paranoid that important documents would be lost easily. The receptionist was also unprofessional - lack of professional attire/demeanor, and we clearly agreed on an appointment time but I was repeatedly told with a blunt attitude that I was "late by an hou
Highly recommend!! Professional and efficient
I recently consulted with Linda Jenkins for tax advice and to discuss my investment position. She is very knowledgeable and gave me great advice. I will be using her service in the future.
I highly recommend Linda Jenkins CPA. She & her team are very thorough, honest & available to answer any & all questions I have had for personal & for business needs.
Awesome,the greatest!!!
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.