*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.*
549 E Washington St
Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44022
Lyle & Assoc. has done our taxes for almost 30 years and has saved us probably tens of thousands of dollars. They keep up on all the latest changes in the tax code and provide wonderful service! I wouldn't use anyone else.
I have tried to use this company for tax prep for past few years... communication is difficult, delays , taxes late ,questions sent by email after deadlines, confusion! ** 25 years in a diff state my taxes on time ,no problem, great tax experience! This experience is so negative I emailed to request my deposit and paperwork returned so I can go somewhere else. They refuse to return 800 dollar deposit ? obviously late in tax year and nothing filed.
Billing and filing mistakes. They made a mistake on the state return and should have refunded part of the fee for that. Staff turn over makes it hard. $1600 per tax return for 4 years of pretty simple taxes is too much!
For more than the last four years I have used Kathy Lyle and her Associates to prepare my business and personal annual tax returns. I have been very pleased with the results of their work. They are knowledgeable with all of the tax issues relating to the proper and complete preparation of my federal and state tax returns. They operate in an effective and efficient fashion, and always meet their targeted completion dates. If you are looking for someone to give you excellent tax counsel as well as prepare yo
DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME! Every aspect of dealing with this company was either frustrating, disappointing, or downright incompetent. We approached L&A because my wife has a small business LLC. At the first meeting, we spent the entire time talking about our need for tax breaks due to her business. After little to no communication, impossible to decipher filing documents and other missteps, we ended up owing money in our return, in addition to L&A's high fees. Turns out, they didn't even include the LLC/tax wr
With Lyle and Associates you're not just another client. They take the time to get know you and your business personally and tailor their services accordingly. Amy is great and Kathy has become a trusted adviser on many issues. The highest compliment I can give them is that I've convinced all my family to become clients. I've told Kathy she can never retire because I'd be at a loss of who to turn to.
Lyle & Associates is an excellent group to work with. I have been working with them for about eight years and have never once been unhappy with their services. They do a great job and are very competent.
Lyle & Associates is a great firm to work with. They don't overcharge for their services and their accountants are both friendly and knowledgeable. I have been more than pleased over the years.
One of the best business decisions I ever made was to let Lyle & Assc. do my Subchapter S Corporation business taxes and returns. Several years ago I was unhappy with my local accountant who I felt over-charged and was not that knowledgeable. Having known Kathy through BMW Car Circles, I'd often go to her for friendly advice. That became a total switchover even though I initially had some concerns because I was in Virginia and their offices in Ohio. However that turned out to be a non-issue with emai
Kathy and her team are very experienced and up to date with the tax code changes. this is our second year using Lyle and Associates for our returns and this year we've added my parents returns to the mix. We are thoroughly satisfied.
We were looking for a qualified firm to do our taxes this year. We saw that Lyle & Associates had good reviews and decided to give them a try. They asked us if we were okay for our "data input" to be done overseas - and we said "no;" so our return was completed by their internal people. When we received our return back, we caught several errors. A wrong form was used; incorrect advise was given. When we questioned the errors, the firm readily fixed them and redid our return (resulting in $200+ less
Kathy Lyle & Associates are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and efficient. I have utmost confidence in their services. Highly recommend.
Full disclosure- I didn't actually pay them for services rendered. I went in fully expecting to pay, but after layout my situation, Kathy advised me to file them myself to save money. She told me how to handle some complications in my finances, but didn't want to overcharge me for what she felt was a relatively simple situation. She's a class act and if I ever need a CPA, she's who I'll call.
Lyle & Associates is extremely professional and accommodating. Easy to work with, great communication, marvelous knowledge of tax code!
I had a very positive experience with Lyle & Associates and would highly recommend them.
Pure team effort at Lyle & Associates.. They have helped me make better decisions.
I was grossly overcharged and when I asked for justification/documentation I was told that there were "too many emails back and forth." REALLY!?!
Great communication and timely service. I would highly recommend Kathy and her staff!
There's no comparison to their pricing, very fair. I like that it's local firm and easily accessible.
They do excellent work. I would highly recommend them.
I've been a client for over 20 years. Simply the best advice and service in the area.
They provide outstanding service.
the caring , professional attitude and services are remarkable!
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.