*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.*
507 Executive Campus Dr
Westerville, Ohio 43082
Referred to Wes by a coworker of my husband?s. Initial meeting was good. The actual work was not good. It?s too much detail for a post but a phone call during the actual preparation regarding a penalty would have kept us from having an issue and their company additional work. It was a situation discussed at the first meeting. We are now left to phone IRS or pay add $ to them- we wont be recommending. It wasn?t a problem it was a year end sell off by our mutual funds that should have been addressed properly.
Can't say enough great things about working with Justin Conklin and the team at Nichols and Co.! Timely, great attention to detail, answers calls, and provides insights. Highly recommend in the greater Columbus area.
Wes & team are are as good as it gets. We cannot thank them enough for their help each year! Having trusted professionals like those @ Nichols is very important. If you are fortunate to get on their client list, you will not be disappointed.
Gwen and staff have brought a caring and professional commitment to our family since well before she became Nichols & Company. Her personal involvement with any issues or questions at any time is representative of her values, high standards & results. It's reassuring knowing she's there for all. Best of success to Gwen and her Staff!
Both myself and my wife own our own businesses. We have been going to Nichols & Company for years. Gwen and all of her staff are amazing. They are always very responsive anytime we have questions and they have always treated us like they are still trying to earn our business. I would highly recommend Nichols & Company to anyone!
Nichols and Company has been a real pleasure to work with in pretty much every way we could have foreseen. We own a landscape company and we met with Gwen Nichols two years ago because we knew her from church and had heard of her reputation. She was articulate and professional. The atmosphere in the office was really different...pleasant and happy. Her staff were very patient and helpful in explaining to us and straightening out what turned out to be a total mess that Mattison, Yoder and Company had been
I reached out to this firm initially when I opened my dental office in 2019. I met with Wes Harmon who told me everything that they do and they they can work with dentists, so I signed on. After receiving zero help for my startup I moved elsewhere. I came back several months later after the firm I moved to left the state. I explained to Wes what my needs and wants were, which was a monthly meeting discussing the financials of my office and how to run my office efficiently- you know basic accounting stuff. I
Nichols and Company dropped us as a client (both our businesses and personal) due to a "conflict of interest" with another company they work with. They claimed to have sent a letter notifying us, only we never received said letter and weren't aware until I reached out with a question. It's their absolute right to no longer work with us, but I would have expected a phone call or at the very least a letter sent certified to ensure we received it. Extremely disappointing all around.
We used Gwen and her team for 3 years now. They have done excellent and Gwen is top notch. Thanks!
Been a client for over 5 years. Great group of people and always quick to answer any questions. We have referred 2 other friends (soon to be 3).
They have been a pleasure to work with over the years. Adam goes above and beyond working round the clock to help out! Much appreciated. you know you are in good professional hands with them! Thank you!!
Wes Harmon does our Taxes and has helped us over the Years.Great Staff and Very Professional!
Gwen is Wonderful! Great experience!
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.