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Pillar & Company, CPAs

Pillar & Company, CPAs

Reviews Summary

The overwhelming consensus is extremely positive, with nearly all reviewers praising the professionalism, expertise, and personal care provided. The CPA is consistently described as knowledgeable, thorough, and highly attentive to clients' needs, often going above and beyond to explain complex tax matters. Many highlight long-term satisfaction (5+ years for numerous clients), exceptional customer service, and reliable support for both personal and business accounting. A single negative review cites time management concerns, but this is an outlier among the widespread acclaim for the firm's integrity, efficiency, and personalized approach.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Audit
Business Consulting
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
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
Audit
Business Consulting
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Non-profits
QuickBooks
Internal Controls

Contact Information

Address

1952 McDowell Rd #110

Naperville, Illinois 60563

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-5:30PM
Tuesday 9AM-5:30PM
Wednesday 9AM-5:30PM
Thursday 9AM-5:30PM
Friday 9AM-5:30PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Joe is a life saver! I had the best experience with him. After 3 years of struggling with taxes owning my small business joe saved me! He really took the time, hours, to sit down with me and explain and teach me everything I needed to know to understand my businesses profit/loss and taxes. He was patient and kind and truly wonderful. I could not thank him enough! I highly recommend Joe and Pilar & Company!

As an Edward Jones Financial Advisor, I have partnered with Joe Xu to help a number of local small businesses. Joe is thorough, knowledgeable, and an overall pleasure to work with. He takes the time to get to know his clients and considers the full spectrum of options to help them satisfy their financial needs. I would encourage any small business to contact Joe if they're seeking a qualified CPA to help them achieve their goals. Mike.

I am the Founder and co-owner of Mr D's waterproofing and construction Inc. Based out of Chicago. I met Joe 3 years ago through one his current clients. I would definitely recommend Joe xu and pillar & company, CPAs. I had no clue as to what I was doing in taxes this company has organized and has helped me in various occasions. First occasion we were audited by insurance company and needed our previous year tax forms in hand this company quickly moved and helped me pass our audit. This company gos above

Joe at Pillar & Co. is a wonderful accountant...he is so personable, proficient and professional. I wouldn't dream of going anywhere else to have my income taxes done because he is so thorough. He has become almost like a family member...he always shows genuine concern about my family and remembers so many details about them and my tax history. His memory amazes me...that happens when someone is genuinely interested. I've been going to Joe for tax preparation for roughly 5 years and every year I am so v

Joe and Pillar & Co have been the first CPA firm I have found to properly take care of my business. He cares a lot, sets up meetings to go over questions or findings and just does a good job while being punctual. I do not want to be a CPA or great at account - but I do need someone on my team that is. Pill & Co have fit that need - so I can go about running my own business.

We have been business owners for more than 17 years, and Pillar & Company has been the BEST accounting firm we have worked with. Joe Xu is extremely professional, who provides sound and solid advice and impeccable work. We are comforted knowing our business matters are being handled by people with such high integrity.

I am writing to express my disappointment with the recent experience I had with your company. I couldn't help but notice a lack of company values, specifically in regard to respecting clients' time. As someone who values their time and understands the importance of efficient and timely business practices, I was disappointed to see that this was not reflected in your services. It is crucial for a business to prioritize and show respect for their clients' valuable time. Unfortunately, due to this discrepan

We have been working with Joe for a couple years now. He makes running a business easy. This allows me to focus on the day to day operations. He is detail oriented, professional and extremely knowledgeable, everything you could want in an accountant. I have already recommended Joe to other business owners and will continue to do so.

We have been using Pillar and Company for over 5 years now! Joe and his team help keep our finances in line and we are glad to have them as a part of our family! We definitely recommend their services to all our customers, friends and family!

I have used Pillar?s accounting services for four years. Joe, he is not only very knowledgeable but also an exceptional coach. He would go extra mile for his clients. I will definitely recommend him to anyone who needs taxes & accounting services.

As a new business owner who resigned from a 9-5 job; it's an understatement to say I was a bit overwhelmed with the tax responsibilities etc that one may have. I spent a few weeks looking for a CPA that could assist me in my situation. After having a free consultation with Joe; I know I'll be coming back here at end of year and after that. I had dozens of questions I needed clarification on, to which he was able to explain to me in a way I understood. He was not only helpful but also interested in my situa

I?ve been having Pillar & Company (Joe Xu ) as my CPA for over 5 years. Joe is the real deal very professional and takes care of business. I advise anyone who?s looking for a CPA to Look no further Joe is the man to take care of all of your accounting needs.

The level of professionalism at Pillar & Company is exceptional. Joe Xu has a tremendous work ethic and is extremely knowledgeable. If you are looking for a trustworthy and dependable CPA, this is the place. Also has a great staff.

We have use Joe's accounting service for more than 6 years and we are very much satisfied with his professional service. He has a great patience and good knowledge to guide you through all the questions you raise. We hghly appreciate his huge help.

Joe has been an excellent addition to our team. He has been extremely helpful in getting us organized and improving our efficiency. He guided us through some complex tax issues. He is ?Our Guy? in finance!

Joe is a very knowledgeable & efficient tax professional & accountant. I have used him for both personal & business taxes for myself and family. Speedy service. Accurate. Reliable. Trustworthy.

I've had Joe as my CPA for taxes for 6 years. I wouldn't have anyone else. He's straight forward with all answers to my questions. Makes me feel comfortable sharing any problems I might have. Thanks Joe.

We have been coming to Pillar & Company CPA (Joe Xu) for our personal and estate taxes for 5 years and recommend them every chance we get. Excellent service!

Joe Xu of Pillar CPA is like family. I could not have started my business without his assistance and advice, and he has been a huge factor in helping my business maintain and flourish in unpredictable times.

We found Joe two years ago to help manage our business and he and his team have done a fantastic job! I highly recommend using this company for business and personal services.

I've gotten my taxes done through Pillar & Company since its inception, and they've always done a great job. They're timely and professional.

Joe is an amazing CPA. He?s very knowledgeable with great communication skills. Great job joe! Kind Regards, Danny James

We have been using the Pillar company for 4 years and we are very satisfied with their accounting and payroll services. Highly recommended.

I have been coming to Joe from Pillar and Company from 2018 , Joe has been excellent in his service that he has provided to me and his work is flawless !! Thank you

We've used Pillar & Company's accounting services for three years. We're very satisfied with their services. Go Pillar!

They went above and beyond to help customers in the area about their taxes. Their customer service is impressive! Kudos to this team.

Joe is an amazing CPA he is always professional and friendly!

Great accountants always use them, they work great for me and my company taxes

Always exploring new possibilities to improve the bottomline. Joe rocks!

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.

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