*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.*
1320 Stratford Rd SE
Decatur, Alabama 35601
We've been extremely impressed with the professionalism and expertise of this CPA firm. Matt is responsive, detail-oriented, and always goes the extra mile to ensure our financials are accurate and compliant. Their guidance has been invaluable to River City Electric. I highly recommend Matt to anyone needing reliable accounting services.
Matt and Elizabeth are very helpful and responsive. They have been able to help with all of our accounting needs. We are pleased and can?t wait to continue working with them in the future.
I have been using MH Young and Associates for many years, both for my business and my personal taxes. They are incredibly reliable, communicative, and helpful. There's no one else I would recommend for your tax and accounting needs!
We?ve have been using Mat for the last couple years for our bookkeeping and business filing! They are on top of all their clients and will save you a lot of headaches when it comes to taxes! Highly highly recommend!!!
I have used Matt for business and personal taxes in the past and, due to some major life changes, have had to use a free service since I am disabled and have had a very limited income. Today I had a tax issue and immediately panicked. Matt, thank you for calling and talking through everything with me. And thank you for protecting your clients! I truly wish you nothing but the best, and hope our paths cross again in business or life!
Matt was very helpful and organized with the process of getting our taxes filed. He is a great communicator and answered all of our questions in a timely manner. Even though my husband and I live out of town, he still managed to make the process seamless and was very efficient. He?s the best out there!
Matt and his team have been amazing to work with. I recently started a business and his advice and expertise have been a tremendous help.
With my job being classified as an independent contractor, Matthew has been be an invaluable source of information. He always takes the time to answer all my questions, makes good suggestions regarding my tax and accounting needs. I would highly recommend Matthew to anyone who is looking for a new CPA.
Matt has helped us with our personal taxes as well as taxes for multiple businesses over the past few years. He is very knowledgeable and takes the time to clearly explain any questions we have had. Highly recommend.
Matt is Awesome! I would give 10 stars if I could. As a Realtor it is so important to find an accountant that is not only accessible but also willing to offer guidance when needed. I did not receive this with my previous accountant. Matt has been so much help!
We started a new business and Matt answered every question we had and even those we didn't know that we had. Great customer service and quick replies to email, text and calls. He is also very knowledgeable about every aspect of accounting from our business to personal needs. Thanks for helping us get started and for your continued help throughout year number one.
I have had the same accountant for the past 25 years. He retired and I started working with Matthew. I was concerned that changing from my long time accountant could make the first year difficult. I could not have been more wrong, Matthew offers great advice, excellent service and immediately caught errors that my former accountant had made to save me money.
Mr. Young took over the accounting for our business and found many oversights our previous accounting group had missed. This resulted in significant savings for our business. Since that time, he has been an indispensable asset providing knowledgeable guidance for our business. I can't recommend Mr. Young highly enough.
Matt does our personal and business taxes and helps us with so many other things!! We are so thankful for all he does for us and for his friendship! 10/10 would recommend!
Extremely personable and genuinely interested in my financial wellbeing.
Great experience working with Matt. We've always done our taxes ourselves, but after working with him, we'll never go back. Highly recommend.
It is comforting to get such competent advice from a local CPA who doesn?t outsource to India. Matthew and his team are top notch.
Matt is very knowledgeable and helpful. I had a tax issue with another state and he promptly took care of the issue and saved me a big headache. Definitely would recommend.
Wow! I own two small companies and for me this firm was a life saver . Very professional, very efficient and extremely knowledgeable in tax . Plus i was able to make a great friend . I would highly recommend!!
Nothing but great things to say about the services provided at M.H. Young & Associates. Matt was extremely helpful and answering the plethora of business and personal tax questions I had.
Matthew has been an asset in the finances of both of our businesses. Always responds in a timely way and always accurate.
I was referred to Mr. Young by a local businessman. He went above and beyond expectations to meet my needs. Professionalism at its best. Thank you sir.
Always quick to answer any questions. Great customer service! We couldn't have made it through our first year in business without him.
2nd year of doing our taxes, many thanks
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.