*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.*
1200 Waters Pl Suite 105
Bronx, New York 10461
Lorraine is flat out amazing at what she does. As a bookkeeper, I'm always looking for tax pros I trust and can refer people to. I refer to Lorraine on a regular basis for her strategic focus on tax strategy. Her approach on prevention and her diligence to maximize tax deductions are essential for any business owner.
I've been filing my taxes with Lorraine since 2018 I believe. Always exceeds my expectations and is very prompt with contacting you if she needed additional information. I definitely recommend you to use her to file your taxes. Very professional service.
I had an exceptional experience working with Lorraine as my CPA. She managed to navigate my complex 2023 tax situation with remarkable efficiency and professionalism. Despite the extensive documentation required, Lorraine was thorough and meticulous, ensuring every detail was handled correctly. I am thoroughly impressed with her expertise and dedication, and I fully intend to work with her again next year. Highly recommend!
Lorraine is phenomenal when it comes to being thorough in answering any questions we had regarding our business and personal tax. She took her time to bring in clarity and insight as to how we can improve the way we filed our taxes. We have learned so much in just a year of doing business with her. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with such attention to detail person as Lorraine. We love as some Lorraine!!!
Lorraine and her team are absolutely incredible when it comes to all things tax and strategy. I appreciate how each unique situation is evaluated and managed and it is not a generic 'cookie cutter' approach to taxes as I have experienced in the past, both personally and for our businesses. I highly recommend Melanin Tax Solutions for your personal and business tax needs.
This is my 4th consecutive year using Melanin Tax Solutions for both my business and personal taxes. Lorraine has been very insightful and professional.
Lorraine was awesome! I will never do my own taxes again. She was patient, super knowledgeable, and insightful about guiding me through my personal and business tax needs. I appreciated the systems Melanin Tax Solutions has in place to ensure my documents and our communication was secure. Thank you for your professionalism, Lorraine. I'll be back! :)
Lorraine has been remarkable for the last 5 years she?s done our taxes perfectly. One year we lived in 3 different states sold a home pretty complex tax stuff and she nailed it. Highly recommend her for great tax services!
Lorraine is very knowledgeable and accessible. I had a lot of confusion related to taxes and she patiently was able to sit down and explain details. Now everything makes sense. She has been the best tax preparer that I've had for my business.
She has done both my personal and business yearly tax return for the past 4 years. I 100% recommend Lorraine.
Lorraine is always on point, knowledgeable and super professional ! Been doing my taxes with her for the past 3 years. She is amazing !
Tax prep made easy. My tax professional was very detailed and was very knowledgeable on tax laws. She looked for every possible deduction and rebate for me. I will definitely be returning. The website used was also very helpful and made contactless submissions and E-Signatures very easy.
Great professional service, accurate and complete. Never had a problem.
Lorraine is a true professional with a very personable approach. We are so grateful to have found her!
I have been working with Lorraine for many years. She is good at doing taxes and very kind.
Punctual, professional, knowledgeable, and helpful. Have been doing my personal and business taxes with Melanin Tax Solutions for years and will continue to do so!
Very professional, detail oriented and knowledgeable. Most importantly reliable, good comprehension of taxes, accounting detail and customer service.
Always takes time to give you maximum refund the company puts itself into the customers shoes and always provides a great SOLUTION to any situation
Very pleasant, effective and prompt accountant. Much recommended!
With most of everything these days being electronic interactions, I am very pleased with the process. Great Service! ?? ??
I always receive the best service. The time and accuracy is on point. I highly recommend their services.
This was the most professional experience I had doing my taxes!
Excellent, prompt service and very professional!
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.