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Marie Starnes CPA PC

Marie Starnes CPA PC

Reviews Summary

Marie Starnes CPA is consistently praised for her professionalism, expertise, and responsiveness. Clients highlight her deep knowledge of tax laws, attention to detail, and ability to explain complex matters clearly. She is trusted for both business and personal accounting, with many noting her reliability, honesty, and proactive approach. Her personalized service and dedication make her a highly recommended CPA, particularly for small business owners and those needing thorough, trustworthy guidance.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
QuickBooks
Local Tax Credits
Years of Practice
CPA License
In-person Support

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Business Consulting
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
QuickBooks
Local Tax Credits
Years of Practice
CPA License
In-person Support

Contact Information

Address

200 E Jefferson St

Monroe, North Carolina 28112

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Customer Reviews

I can't say enough great things about Marie. As a small business owner, I wear many hats, and when my business began to grow, I knew I needed a tax professional to help me make sure I was doing things the right way. Marie was so personable and down to earth, from our very first meeting. When I have questions, she has answers, and she takes the time to explain things so that they are easy to understand. It's so important to have a trustworthy tax professional, and I am so grateful to have found one in Ma

My husband discovered Marie Starnes shortly after starting our business after several disappointing experiences with other accountants We were seeking someone reliable, knowledgeable, competent and trustworthy to guide us and keep our finances in order - not qualities easily found these days. 4 years later, and still very pleased, Marie is not only handling our business accounting, but our personal as well, and has provided recommendations to others who have assisted in separate matters. Consistently, sh

Marie Starnes is an amazing accountant. We could never thank her enough for all she does for our business! She has been doing our business taxes and personal taxes for several years. She is very dedicated, knowledgeable and really knows her stuff! She is very organized, detailed and we are so blessed to have someone that we can trust our taxes and payroll with. We always know we are in great hands with Marie! We recommend her to everyone that wants a super efficient and professional accountant. Her

Wanted to give a huge thank you to everyone that posted recommendations for a CPA for 2020 tax returns here in Indian Trail, Monroe NC. We setup an appointment with Marie Starnes, CPA and worked with her for the first time this year for personal taxes. She was extremely professional, detailed and organized. She was very responsive, and willing to answer a multitude of questions patiently even after our taxes were done/filed. We highly recommend her services and can confirm the cost for said services were

Marie is on top of the ever changing tax requirements for people like me! She is always reading, studying and researching the best way to advocate for her clients. Marie is hardworking, professional and one phone call away to explain creative ways to maximize my return. Make your appointment TODAY!

We could not say enough good things about Marie as a CPA. Not only does she handle our business and personal taxes, she has also been an excellent advisor along the way. Highly recommend!

Marie is an outstanding CPA and always stays on top of new laws and rules. She is very responsive and cares about her clients. Highly recommend!!

This was our first time using Marie for taxes purposes for the new venture of my husband and I starting a small business in Union County. It has been alot of questions back and forth through emails; but Marie has answered all of them for us and been patient and making sure we are doing this correctly. She was recommended to us by my husbands previous employer and she has been very understanding in all of our concerns for this. Thank you for all that you do for Union County.

Marie Starnes CPA PC is the epitome of professionalism in Accounting. We have multiple Companies and require monthly reporting, as well as, end of year accounting. Marie Starnes has always made sure we are a priority when answering a multitude of questions that comes with running several companies. Marie's work ethic is strong and she is well-skilled in the ever-changing tax laws. Marie Starnes CPA is an asset to our team.

Marie provides a personal, and professional experience. She has an eye for detail (which is what you want in a CPA) and does amazing work.

Marie is one of the best in the business! Every year she provides high quality service and great advice in the complicated tax world!

Marie provides a personal experience in a professional way. She is attentive, thorough and honest. I highly recommend her.

Highly recommend Marie Starnes CPA, she is professional, honest and incredibly knowledgeable. She proactively seeks solutions to all my tax concerns.

Marie is outstanding! She is very professional and responsive. I would recommend her to anyone!

Excellent CPA. very detailed and provides excellent guidance on complex estate matters. I would highly recommend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.

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