*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.*
2721 SW 30th St
Des Moines, Iowa 50321
If I could have left negative stars, I would have. I went to get my tax return and RGE and shockingly told me I owed $9,000!!!! I was dumbfounded! I tried to explain what the issue was because the old owner was well versed in my type of taxes. RGE would not entertain that a WOMAN could be intelligent enough to correct them. I was degraded, yelled at and commanded to leave or they threatened to call the police over just trying to explain the issue!?!? Needless to say the WOMAN was correct. I went to a reputa
Update. Still 5 stars. Alan and company, have been our business accountants for almost 6 years now. They have assisted us with a business purchase, looking at 2 more purchases (and helped us ferret out the flaws in those books) plus 5 years of 1099 prep and tax filing. Acessible. Helpful. Fast. Excellent advice. Support staff are wonderful. No suggestions for questionable deductions or practices. As Alan described to me "Tax returns and P & L's are like a book. They tell a story." When we had an employee
Alan Kincheloe CPA is one of the brightest minds I have came across in any professional field. His happens to be in tax and accounting. He's 100% devoted to his work and is community minded. I would recommend his tax services to other business professionals.
It saddens me to write this negative review of my horrific experiences with Faller, Kincheloe and Company. The decision to do so has been gut-wrenching. I know these are good people. But they have failed me and my business so completely and thoroughly that I am compelled - morally, ethically and even legally - to write this review as a warning to any business owner who is contemplating using their services. I also write it as a way to motivate the partners and managers of this firm to implement change - tru
Dealt with Ryan and Alan and I can say they both have a genuine desire to help. They both know their stuff and have helped navigate the easy and the incredibly difficult issues that have come up. Very happy I found them.
Jeremy and Ryan are the 2 gentlemen that I have had experience with and they are both fantastic! Bookkeeping, payroll, and tax prep.
I've used these tax professionals for 10+ years. I absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for reliable and professional tax preparation!
Great service and tremendous accuracy. Have dealt with them for over 7 years. They are the best
GREAT COMPANY ! THEY DO WONDERFUL WORK & WILL GET YOU BACK ON TRACK !
Always awesome, year after year. Ryan is the best!!!!
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.