*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.*
1066 Bloomingdale Ave
Valrico, Florida 33596
With a professional relationship spanning over a decade at this point, I have owed Nik a 5-Star review since our first onboarding call. As serial entrepreneurs with tax situations that have failed the capacity of multiple prior accounting relationships, hands down, Nik is one of the most valuable professional relationships in our life. Period. In our time together, we?ve navigated 5 businesses as owners. At times, this has been intertwined with employee income, 1099 income, back taxes, business state chan
Nik is professional, knowledgeable, and timely. He is the type of CPA that will go beyond simply filing a tax return. He keeps up with the tax law changes and as importantly with the strategies to guide small businesses and investors to minimize tax liabilities. He is also very good at communicating on a timely basis. Questions get answered promptly and if Nik is away he is good about setting the right expectations. We highly recommend him.
Nik has answered all of my questions for complex tax strategies and situations both in personal and business situations. I have used 5 accountants prior to finding him and I knew more than they did. I am so glad to finally find an accountant who knows the laws, can analyze your situation to come up with strategies and lives by what he tells me to do. I highly recommend him!
I have been working with Nik now for 6 plus years and his knowledge in tax planning has been exceptional. His attention to detail and setting me up with my tax planning strategies every year help me and my business every year. This is something other accounting firms fail to do. His advisory services are definitely worth it. He takes his time understanding financial data and coming back with tax strategies.
I have been a client of Nik Patel for almost a year now, and I can honestly say he has been the best CPA I have ever had in my 15 years of operating a business. He is available anytime I need him, even after hours. He has been the sole reason I have saved on taxes and provided me with the best advice with my short time with him as client thus far. I would recommend him to anyone that needs a trusted and honest CPA.
When we opened our business we were looking for a CPA that we could trust not only to do our taxes but be an advisor. Patel tax and accounting team has been a fantastic partner for all of our accounting and tax needs. Nik and his team are easy to work with, professional and very knowledgeable. Nik takes his time to explain complicated tax concepts and gives you honest and genuine feedback on tax strategies so I know my taxes will be done right. If you?re looking for a trustworthy and knowledgeable CPA, Nik
My wife and I hired Nik as our first CPA, after doing our taxes ourselves in the past, since our taxes grew more complicated this year after we started our own business. And he navigated us through the complexities of our financial situation in a very clear and personable way. He?s very detail oriented, he charges reasonable rates, and he?s very clear and fast in his communications.
For the past few years, Nik has been handling my personal taxes. He is easy to communicate with, knowledgeable, and efficient. I highly recommend Nik for any tax-related needs.
Nik has been incredible! We had have some rather bad experiences with former accountants that left us in a precarious state regarding our personal income taxes. Nik was patient, understanding, and communicated with us constantly to be sure we worked out our past tax and current tax situation so that we could move forward with a plan. He brought peace of mind where there hadn't been for several years. I only wish we had found him sooner. If you are looking for a thorough, smart accountant you actually cares
We trust Nik and his team with our business and personal taxes. They are skilled accountants and we enjoy working with them. We feel blessed to have found them. We highly recommend!
Nik is the best. Literally. For years I did my own taxes.. thinking I knew what I was doing. As my business took off, I realized I should really be using a professional. Nik has done my taxes for the last few years.. and I have owed far less than ever before. I know he is completely ethical.. he is just doing it correctly. He is easy to talk to. I always enjoy our communications. Recently in light of Covid, I was told that I would not qualify ( be several accounting professionals) for the PPP program.
Nik was easy to work with. He was personable and always available to answer all my questions regarding my tax returns. He was completely transparent throughout this process and his charges were fair. I look forward to working with him for years to come.
Nik was a fantastic help. I'm based out of Clearwater and was referred to him by another accountant that was unable to help me. I formed a S Corp with my LLC last year and held multiple positions along with an income property and a new real estate agent business. Nik handled it all with ease. Glad I found a new accountant and bookkeeper that's way more proactive with my business needs than I am.
I've had the pleasure of working with Mr. Patel over the better half of this last year, 2015- and I am thrilled to report that I am extremely satisfied in not only the services rendered by his company, but also the professional and courteous manner in which all of my open agendas were handled. What sets Mr. Patel apart from the rest, outside of his CPA credentialing, is the fact that there is always a personal interest in the business. Mr. Patel adopts a very genuine concern for the health of my compan
We have been clients with Patel Tax and accounting for a couple of years? we have recently sold our four Marcos?the firm was always helpful and available for questions?very professional and prompt?thank you
Best deal in town, great rates. Patel Tax accounting completed all my tax returns, quickly and my refund was in my bank account in a week. -Fast Processing -Quick Completion -Great contact with Email, Text, and phone calls Would reccoomend to family and friends.
I have had a great experience working with Nik for accounting services. He is knowledgeable, detail oriented, friendly, and easy to work with. I highly recommend his services.
I got a letter from IRS saying I owe $10k but Nik not only got me out of paying, he actually got me a refund. Nik is the best!!
I use Patel Tax and Accounting for my monthly P&L's and yearly taxes for my multi unit franchise. Very professional company and what seems like one to one service all the time. 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.