*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.*
303 SW 140th Terrace
Jonesville, Florida 32669
Tom has been doing my taxes for several years now. This is a very professional and organized firm. I couldn?t be happier and I would highly recommend them.
ProActive Tax & Accounting in Jonesville is top of the line in my book. An IRS tax bill on a large capital gains, which I had been told time and again would be thousands and thousands of dollars, became WELL UNDER one thousand dollars. CPA Tom Porter did an enormous amount of research, which paid off immensely. I will be forever grateful.
I have been working with Tom Porter of ProActive Tax & Accounting for many years now and couldn't be more satisfied with the service provided. Tom is extremely knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to ensure all my accounting needs are met. Tom has a keen eye for detail and offers invaluable advice that has greatly benefited my business. One of the standout qualities of Tom is his responsiveness. No matter how complex or simple my questions might be, he is always quick to provide th
Very thorough and easy to work with. Will absolutely be continuing to use this business!
Tom has been helping me with my tax returns for over 4 years now. He has made the process so simple and answers my questions quickly. I?m grateful for his knowledge as well as how fast my return is completed. He is fantastic.
I've just begun to work with Tom Porter and his team, but they've already gone above and beyond to me as I navigate starting a new business. Before committing to work with ProActive Tax and Accounting, I met with several other tax services. None of them seemed interested in working with a business like mine. Tom and his team, on the other hand, have patiently answered my questions. I can't recommend them enough!
This is my third year using Tom for my taxes. He?s been fantastic. I?m able to do everything via email, he?s knowledgeable about what works best for our family and doesn?t push me to do things I don?t need. Best accounting experience I?ve ever had.
ProActive Tax is really responsive to any questions I have, even during the hectic tax season. I have recommended them for years to several clients and they have also been very satisfied.
Have just recently started working with ProActive. I am starting a new business and the "business stuff" is out of my wheelhouse. Tom and Paul have been so patient to answer all my questions in a way that I can understand, and have advised me on the basics of setting up a business, along with other important things I should know and do. Tom even took time to talk with me and my partner about our new venture, even though it was in the middle of tax season madness. I have found them very patient, accessible
I just wanted to thank you again for taking the time to talk with me earlier this week as I completed our FL Business Tax application. I so appreciate your kindness and being willing to break it down into plain English/non-accountant terms for me. Clearly filling out tax applications is not something I do on a regular basis. Tom and Lynda, you are WONDERFUL! Thank you!
We have worked with Tom, Paul, and Pam for several years on our personal and business taxes. They are absolutely amazing. Always very prompt, professional, and dedicated to serving the client and keeping their best interest priority. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for professional tax services.
We have been using ProActive for several years now and have always been very happy with the service provided. Tom always makes himself available to answer my many questions and to help in any way he can! Tom and ProActive are such a blessing!
My small business has been working with Proactive for the last few years and as we grow, they continue to provide excellent service that accelerates our progress! They help with not only taxes, but also payroll, filings, etc. And they are honest about the costs and pros and cons of doing it myself compared to going with them. I like that I can e-mail or call them even during busy seasons and they respond consistently with relevant information.
After using other accountants in town and not being satisfied, I found Pam Burns of Proactive Accounting 6 years ago and couldn't be happier. She's the only person I trust with my personal finances as well as my small business. For me is about peace of mind and not ever wanting Uncle Sam on my back! I recommend them to everyone and know first hand that they are truly the best in town.
Completely professional and responsive, Tom Porter and his staff return their calls within 24 hours. Their responses to my questions are clear, practical and doable. Their reliable performance is of critical value to my company.
We have attended one of Pro Active Tax and Accounting's Quickbooks seminar, and it was very informative. Pam holds her staff to the highest standards, and offers the best solutions come tax time. She is also very involved in the community, which I find important. highly recommend!
As a Certified Financial Planner, I have dealt with many CPAs over the years. Pam Burns is not only hands down the best in the area but the best I have ever had the pleasure to work with. I trust her with my personal and business returns as well as with my reputation when I refer clients to her. She definitely has a unique skill set in being proactive and consistently goes above and beyond for her clients. She is an invaluable resource to our community.
I've worked with Pam and Beth for over a year. They are consistently responsive, professional, personable accountants who get the job done. They are a local firm who support local businesses but give big firm service. Always a pleasure doing business with them.
Proactive Tax and Accounting has helped me in so many ways with a hands on and customized approach to my small business tax and most importantly, tax planning needs. I have been working with them for almost 7 years now and couldn't be happier at the level of service and attention to detail they provide!
Tom the tax guy at Proactive Accounting is second to none. Also, my experience with Pam Burns has been nothing but excellent. Great business providing outstanding sevices and advise.
Tom is always informative and responsive. We do all our tax accounting and strategy with his team at ProActive
Horrible. Avoid at all costs. Fails to tell you if you owe money. Doesn't remember what services you need. Have to constantly chase them down and when work is "completed" they neglect to advise you as to what or who to pay.
Pam and her team have done my taxes for two years now and I could not be happier. As a small business owner she has been very proactive in looking for deductions and saving me money! I really appreciate that.
Tom was so helpful in preparing my taxes this year! Their team made the entire process incredibly easy, and I would recommend their services to anyone!
Pam and her team are responsive and helpful with our business taxes. It?s comforting to know that our highly qualified accountant is just phone call or email away.
Utmost professionalism, reasonable prices, and a caring staff. I own a very small business, yet I feel like their #1 client every time I speak with them. I highly recommend Pam and her staff, and I can't imagine going anywhere else.
We work with Tom for our business and personal returns, and I've been really happy with the expertise and especially their responsiveness.
Tom and his team have done a great job being our outsourced accounting department. Thank you ProActive!
Tom is a very friendly and knowledgeable person. I trust him and recommend him highly.
If you want your taxes done right, go to ProActive & Accounting.
ProActive means they go the extra mile. They research every legal posibility to do the best job possible for their clients!
Exceptional, professional tax services. Friendly, helpful, professional and extremely knowledgable.
They r absolutely THE best cpa & tax planners in Gville, bar none!!! TY ProActive!!!
Pam and her staff are on the ball and ready to help our business run better.
Pam and staff are excellent, responsive and attentive. I would recommend them to anyone!
Extremely kind and helpful.
Always accurate and 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.