*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.*
1040 S Gaylord St Suite 82
Denver, Colorado 80209
Mary has been doing my personal and business taxes for 2 years now. I switched to Mary after my previous CPA was very unresponsive and made a few mistakes. Mary is thorough, on time and responsive. She even does mid-year reviews. I highly recommend Mary Gallagher as your CPA.
Mary is fantastic. She's been a great resource and support for our family and our small business. We appreciate her reliability, hard work, and effort. I trust her judgement and recommend you meet with her to see if she's a good fit for you. Edit: It's been 5 years since we posted this, and we still work with Mary and appreciate her attention to detail and support. Highly recommended.
I have been working with Mary Gallagher as my tax adviser for 4 years and have been nothing but impressed. She responds immediately and with great accuracy. She has always gone above and beyond when it comes to paying attention to detail. I don't know how she does it, but she always has time for her clients and her associations. I would refer my clients to her in a heartbeat. If you choose to work with her personally, I have no doubt you will feel the same.
This is the second year in a row that I've had Mary handle my taxes (which admittedly, I find to be a daunting part of life!). Mary makes things easy, and as straightforward as possible. I'm glad to have her as a resource and am quick to recommend her to friends and family. If you're considering working with Mary -- just for it! You won't be disappointed.
Mary has been my Accountant now for 2 years and she is simply awesome! She is through, efficient and user friendly. I highly recommend her services to any small business owners in the Denver metro.
Very fast, but not always accurate (put a tax we paid to the IRS on the CO state tax form, which, after we found the error post-IRS communication, she corrected and repaid us the penalty, but we had to be the sleuth on that). Our main reason for switching to a new accountant was we just weren't happy with the quality of the communication or fully confident with what she was doing or not doing for us. For example, we would bring to her attention that, since we had only earned x amount and would be receiving
Mary Gallagher is excellent to work with. I believe it is important to choose a CPA. Mary is very dedicated to her clients and we are privileged to work with such a professional.
I've known Mary and done business with her over the course of the past 5 years. She is nothing but professional, timely, courteous and pleasant to work with. I would highly recommend her services.
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.