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Pfeffer, Hanniford & Palka, CPA's, PC

Pfeffer, Hanniford & Palka, CPA's, PC

Reviews Summary

The overwhelming consensus is extremely positive, with most reviewers praising the firm's professionalism, expertise, and personalized service. Many highlight significant tax savings, quick responses, and friendly staff, particularly for complex tax situations. Several long-term clients commend consistent excellent service over years or decades. The firm is repeatedly recommended for both personal and business taxes, with special appreciation for their strategic advice and stress-free experience. A single negative review mentions abrupt termination of service after many years. Overall, customers value the accountants' knowledge, efficiency, and compassionate approach, often stating they wouldn't use anyone else.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Audit
Assurance
Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
QuickBooks
Internal Controls

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

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Audit
Assurance
Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
QuickBooks
Internal Controls

Contact Information

Address

225 E Grand River Ave #104

Brighton, Michigan 48116

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 8AM-4:30PM
Tuesday 8AM-4:30PM
Wednesday 8AM-4:30PM
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

There is no better place to get your taxes done! Kaitlyn has taken amazing care of me, I wouldn?t go anywhere else. She has saved money and time and has become a friend :) 10/10 love this place

Kaitlyn is hands down the best CPA we have worked with for both my personal and small business taxes. Very knowledgeable, kind and responsive.

Kaitlyn helped me more than ANY tax consultant I?ve ever had. She took so much stress off for me and my small business, and she is extremely responsive and organized everything so well for me this year. If you need a tax person THIS IS YOUR GIRL!!

Kaitlyn has been the accountant for my small business for about 3 years now. She has been wonderful with helping me navigate taxes, payroll and bookkeeping. She also prepares our personal taxes. She is responsive and always goes the extra mile. I would (and do) recommend her to anyone looking for accounting services.

Kaitlyn has been so helpful in organizing and preparing our business and personal taxes!

Was referred to PHP and Kaitlyn helped me out. She was very attentive and showed concern to my taxes. Will be returning.

My wife and I work with Kaitlyn at PHP. She does excellent work with our personal returns and business monthly statements. Highly recommend.

I normally use TurboTax, but chose this service because of divorce. Kaitlyn was professional and friendly. I will continue to use this company in the future, instead of TT, because it saved me hours of time and hassle. Their current rate is $300-$450, filing jointly with standard deduction. Also, there?s comfort in knowing an accountant is filing my taxes

Kaityln has done our family's taxes for 3 years now. Ours is fairly complex with travel expenses and work in multiple states, and a dependent adult child. We have received refunds instead of having to pay more! We did not have good experiences with one of the big tax companies before we switched to Pfeffer, Hanniford & Palka. We are extremely pleased with their professionalism, service, speed, and price. Definitely recommend!

Kaitlyn was a life savor, I had been getting my taxes done by another firm and I kept owing Uncle Sam. Kaitlyn made some really great suggestions which I followed and ended up saving over 6k in my federal taxes! This place rocks!!!!

I have been a client since the late 70's. I have enjoyed many years of excellent personal service. Pat, John, Carol, and Kathy have been personable and friendly to me, my family, and the staffs of my numerous businesses over all the years of our relationship. I have reffered multiple clients, and will continue to do so. Jim Alexander Retired (for the moment)

Kaitlyn and the team did a phenomenal job and had a quick turnaround. They were strategic and measured. I appreciate their diligence and would gladly recommend them to anyone. ??????????

I recently had Pfeffer, Hanniford and Palka prepare my taxes. As a new business owner who operates in multiple states with several tax write-offs and other unique challenges, this was a pretty complicated process. Kristen Pfeffer helped me get my LLC off the ground, registered to operate in different states, and offered solid, invaluable advice. She was able to walk me through the steps, provide clear, fool-proof instructions and respond quickly to my emails. On top of that, she was able to save me quite a

Pat Hanniford is an extremely attentive and experienced account. My whole family and our business uses his services. No matter how swamped he is at "Tax Time" he makes us feel we are very important. He is very professional and speedy!

Pfeffer, Hanniford &Palka is a fantastic firm! As a recent widow, i needed a lot of help, and I couldn't have found more efficient or kind people, Kaitlyn in particular. Don't hesitate to consult them!

Paying a great accountant to take care of your taxes is well worth the money compared to DIY programs that will miss deductions. Pfeffer, Hanniford, & Palka is a fantastic accounting firm that will give you personalized service. I highly recommend.

This is my first time using this company for my taxes, and I have been satisfied in what they have been able to do for me. They answer the phone quickly and a person helping you with your taxes have been friendly and have been able to answer all my questions. Highly recommended and will be using them again. :)

Unceremoniously 'kicked to the curb' in the middle of tax season after a 14 year relationship. I live out of state and I suppose I was just seen as 'inconvenient' to do business with. I was informed that 'our fees have doubled.' Funny, I never got any 'bulk' mailing informing me of that, and no mention of it on their website. My individual tax return would be considered 'small potatoes' and not worth the cost of doing business with. Sad.

Been going here about 10 years or so. They have been nothing but helpful. They help save us alot of money over the years on taxes and always has helpful suggestions. In all the years we have been in business they have been the best we ever seen. John, Carol, and staff are the fantastic.

Kaitlyn- Incredibly professional, knowledgeable and caring! You want the best?she is. Thank you so much for your help, professionalism and care! Simply the best! Schlecter

Ken Palka and the office was slammed yesterday because it was the day before tax day. Everyone including the office staff and customers were patient and the staff made sure everyone was well taken care of. Can't say enough good things about this group.

Used this firm for over a decade. Not overly complex taxes, but I dint want to weed through them. Reviewed in depth each year and I'm confident in their work.

I have used this firm for over 20 years and have had excellent service - billing is very reasonable and staff is very friendly. Highly recommended.

John is fantastic. My family has worked with him for many years. Handling personal and business accounting.

They have made my life better! Trustworthy and compassionate!

Thank you for taking care of my business and my family. PHP is amazing!

Great people working here. Best customer service ever.

They are so knowledgeable and helpful!

Efficient, timely, a pleasure to have as a CPA

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.