*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.*
601 S Lincoln Ave
Clearwater, Florida 33756
Mel has been my accountant for both personal and business matters for several years, and I?ve always been impressed with his professionalism and reliability. He?s quick to respond, stays current with all the latest tax laws and updates, and makes everything easy to understand. Mel is approachable, thorough, and takes the stress out of tax season. I?m very happy with the service and highly recommend his office.
As a small business owner, in a specialty industry (Hospitality) - Sams IV CPA, P.A. has proven to be a true asset over the last few years. They handle our business and personal taxes and we are grateful to have begun this relationship. Mel and the rest of the team have always provided excellent service. I have to give an extra shout out to Dana - who is a true gem to work with.
Over a decade ago my wife and I started using the service of Sams IV,CPA located in Main Street in Dunedin FL .We couldn?t be more satisfied.We were genuinely impressed by the level of detail and care this firm provides ,which is truly unmatched. Mel Sams personally review each tax returns, whether business or personal ,ensuing full compliance with current IRS guidelines and updates.His Hands-on approach and thoroughness give us peace of mind year after year . What really sets this firm apart is the added
Mel has been my CPA for both my business and personal taxes for going on 9 years now. Always professional, knowledgeable and responsive. I would highly recommend his services.
Absolutely great experience working with this firm. Mel is highly respected and I was referred to him from my last employer. Could not be happier with their service. Kristina has always been incredibly polite, friendly, and easy to work with and answers any questions I have when I call in. 10/10
I have used Mel Sams and his accounting firm, Sams IV CPA, since moving to Florida 8+ years ago. From our personal tax filings to accounting services for our family businesses, Mel has been outstanding to work with. Mel is honest, kind, professional, and super adept and handling all types of accounting tasks. I could not be more pleased with his accuracy and have complete confidence in all accounting work Mel completes on our behalf. It is with 100% confidence that I recommend Mel and his firm. Thank y
One of the WORST customer service I've ever received. Not the actual accounting or accountant but the staff!! RUDE! DISRESPECTFUL, THEY LIE!!! TERRIBLE TERRIBLE TERRIBLE..... then, they had the odacity to hang up on me after accusing me off being toxic!!!! Funny thing is, I belive they're the same women responding to the bad Google reviews with their terrible attitudes. I do not know WHO did the hiring over there... but i would NEVER recommend this company. In addition, when I asked for a copy of last year
I highly recommend Sams IV CPA, P.A. and his team! From the moment I reached out, their professionalism was evident. Mel Sam's extensive knowledge and experience truly set him apart in the field of accounting. He provided clear, insightful guidance that made navigating our financials a breeze. The entire staff is amazing?always responsive, friendly, and incredibly efficient. Every question was answered promptly, and their attention to detail was second to none. If you're looking for a CPA who combines expe
Sadly the worst firm I have hired which is a shame because Mel is quite intelligent. However, his staff is deplorable, communication is non existent, and they simply fire off your books to their company in India. My companies bookkeeping was grotesquely mismanaged and after giving Mel's office chance after chance to correct it to no avail I had to move on. I hired a new firm and am more than 10k into repair work and still counting. The service on the US side also leaves something to be desired. His bus
Mel Sams is an outstanding CPA. He is a man of integrity and expertise, and he has deep connections in our community, which is a huge asset for a business owner. His staff is professional and responsive to their clients. I highly recommend Mel Sams, CPA.
Sams IV CPA, P.A. We had the good fortune of being introduced to Mel and his staff a few years ago during a visit to Florida. Our interactions with the firm have always been positive and their work is completed timely. When questioned about any tax situation their answers are prompt and detailed. I strongly recommend the Sams group. I couldn't be happier!!
Mel does a great job explaining my options and how various tax regulations impact my situation.
Mel is a wonderful accountant and financial advisor! Mel is incredibly responsive and works with integrity. You can trust that he will operate with your best interest in mind and he truly goes "above and beyond" for clients. He also takes the time to explain things when needed and is very patient. I am grateful for Mel and his entire team - they have helped me in a pinch, expedited documents when needed and overall made my life and finances much easier. Mel is a trusted advisor and I highly recommend workin
Sam's IV CPA IS the best FIM I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Everyone is extremely friendly and professional. I would lost without their professional support. Give them a call, you won't be disappointed .
They design your tax filing for your best benefit. I think it would be hard to find anyone better!
Mel has been a true pleasure to work with on my business and personal taxes. He is extremely professional and has a pleasant way of explaining the complicated in terms the average client would understand. I have no problem recommending Mel and his staff for any accounting needs from Business to Personal. If you want to feel like you matter to your accountant give Mel, Gail and Sharon a call.
Mel and his team are fantastic, and I'm so grateful I was referred to them! I approached 2018 tax time with a lot of anxiety as a new client of his, and with some seriously heavy tax liability. Mel managed to save me over $25k with some extra hours, attention to detail, and hard work - and his fees were worth every cent. We did the entire thing remotely as I live nearly an hour away and travel often for work. I highly recommend!
I am not accustomed to uploading information/records on computer; I found that I could scan my tax documents on my I-phone to the organizer and that worked out alright.
Mel and his staff are fantastic! I started my own business in 2017 and I had no idea what I was doing with regards to payroll, taxes, filings, investments, etc. Mel walked me through it all and was there to answer all of my questions...and I had A LOT of questions! And, much to my surprise, tax season was a breeze! I would highly recommend contacting Sams IV CPA for your individual and business needs. You will be so happy that you did!
After considerable due diligence Mel was my choice from the beginning when I purchased my business several years ago. He is very knowledgeable, responsive and listens to my needs. I have never had an issue as we have gone thru several tax filings and business situations to date. An overall valuable financial professional across the board, highly recommend.
Mel has been doing my taxes for a couple years now and I can say he has saved me a couple times. He is very professional, knowledgeable and pleasant to work with. He definitely took my stress away. I recommend him every chance I get.
Sarah at Mel Sam?s IV CPA, PA office in Clearwater, FL is absolutely WONDERFUL! She is quick to answer my call, super efficient, friendly, knowledgeable, professional, great communication skills, detail oriented and has excellent follow through. Kudos in hiring such a great employee. She is definitely an asset to your team. Keep up the superb work!!!
I won?t waste mine, or your time on the very detailed review that I would like to leave. I will simply say, stay far, far away from the CPA firm. Since I was called ?crazy? I feel need update my review so my experience can be documented with facts. ??????? I own a small business and was referred to this firm. Hired this company to do my 2022 sales tax, 2022 tax return, and ongoing accounting services and bookkeeping for 2023. My initial consultation with Mr. Sam?s was very straightforward, pleasant, and
I have been working with Mel for over 6 years both in corporate and personal financial matters. His professionalism, knowledge, and ease of explaining complicated issues always protecting my interest is outstanding. I highly recommend Mel and his fantastic staff to guide you through any financial matter. You will not be disappointed.
Always a great experience working with Sams IV CPA for both my business and personal taxes
Our family is fairly new to the accounting services provided by Mel Sams. After the announcement by our former CPA that he would be retiring, we started the search process once again. After a few discouraging experiences our financial manager suggested that we try Mel Sams. Unfortunately, our transitioned occurred in March of 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic where many things were just not happening. Nevertheless, Mel and company established handoff procedures to accommodate the situation and we
Sam Mels CPA has been wonderful to work with both on a professional and personal level. He has saved both me and my company thousands of dollars. His knowledge and experience is indispensable. I would highly recommend him and his team to anyone that is looking for outstanding Accounting Services or a new CPA. Bill G. President / CEO.
Mel and his Staff are awesome!! From the first contact with his office I felt comfortable knowing I was in good hands. He is knowledgeable, efficient and timely in his work product and communications with his clients. A definite great choice in CPA.
Very helpful in answering and helping me understand my tax questions. Great service at a great value. This will be my 3rd tax year with Mel. I've recommended him and his team to all of my colleagues. Five star service and results all day long. Worth every penny!!
Mel Sam's and his team are hands down the best in the business. They work tirelessly to make sure you (and your business) meet or exceed your financial goals leaving no stone unturned. I wouldn't do business with anyone else. Highly recommend!!
My old accountant caused chaos to the point that we had to just about take legal action. Mel, Mary, Jamie and the rest of the staff literally saved our business. They have been working hard to resolve the issues that were cause by our past accountants. They are very professional and provide excellent customer service.
Expertise, integrity, professionalism and customer service....All of the things you can expect when doing business with Mel and his team. He has been doing our company and personal taxes for several years and ALWAYS does a quality job. I would recommend him to any business or professional looking to relieve yourself of the tax stresses. Oh, and he does much more than just taxes!
VERY professional and knowledgeable accounting services. We have been using them for 2 years for all our business and personal tax concerns. They have always provided the best service. We look forward to a continued relationship with this firm and appreciate all that they have done to help us maintain our personal and business tax/financial health. Chris (Owner of Mamas Kitchen Seminole)
After going through a terrible meeting with another CPA, I went to Mel. He got me a totally different outcome and washed the stress away. I would highly recommend him to any other small business owner. He is direct straight forward and knows the law back and forth. Made a very stressful outcome have a totally different result and explained it to me in pain english. If you need a Competent CPA call them today!!
Mr. Sams has provided consistent and competent advice for myself and family for more than 7 years. It?s rare to find a business professional that values honesty more than profits. Thank you Mel for your continued diligence in representing my interests.
Mel and his team are fantastic, courteous, and professional. I use them for both my business and individual taxes. I highly recommend Mel and his team for any of your tax needs. A+
Mel was extremely knowledgeable, professional and a true expert in his field. His entire staff is friendly and accommodating, hands down the best accountant I have ever used.
I have been using Mel for my corporate and personal accounting for the past 4 years and he has gone above and beyond for me. Recently he assisted me during the sale of my business and was an invaluable resource. He is a pleasure to work with and an asset to have as an adviser.
NOT HAPPY! Because you filled our taxes so late the SS had to use our AGI from 2021 AGAIN which was inflated because of a one time IRA distribution instead of the more current and accurate 2022 AGI. Because of the SS using the inflated AGI from 2021, I am now receiving less money in my SS check than I would have had you filled our 2022 taxes in a more timely manner.
Needed to get some advice on tax issues along with handling my filing. Gave all the info ahead asked if this would effect me and was assured it was fine and in fact was due a great return. Go to file with them later and tune totally changes and was told on well. My tax returns were done and filed by them. At least there's that. They were happy to collect the money but offered no sympathy for their poor prior advice.
I've been using Mel Sam's for all my business and personal taxes for the past 5 years. I would recommend him to anyone that needs any type of tax work done.
As a professional myself, I recognize the importance of good communication, respect and knowledge. Mr Sams has not disappointed and epitomizes the definition of professional! Highly recommend!
Mel was great to work with on my business taxes, as well as providing timely documents when I was closing on my new home. I would highly recommend him!
Mel, Susan and staff are very knowledgeable and professional. They've saved our business thousands over the years with their tax expertise.
Mel and associates were always helpful when completing my tax returns. Very friendly staff as well.
First time using an accountant and I was NOT disappointed?Amazing service, always responsive to my questions and I am extremely satisfied. I would recommend this company for anyone looking for a good and prompt accountant?Jamie and Susan were also amazing and very knowledgeable, I look forward to continue working with them in the future
Mel is a true professional and is helpful in all aspects of personal and business financial decision making! No one else I would use !
Very Disappointed in the services and communications regarding Mel and his staff. They totally dropped the ball this season on my taxes and didn?t even have the common decency to call me back after weeks of trying to speak with Mel. No call no show no go !
Very knowledgeable and trustworthy. look forward to using him again.
The service was excellent and the office staff were great.
Best accountant I've ever dealt with. Brilliant and capable in every way.
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.