*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.*
541 S Orlando Ave # 300
Maitland, Florida 32751
Schafer, Tschopp, Whitcomb, Mitchell & Sheridan, LLP is hands-down one of the best CPA firms I?ve ever worked with. Their professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail are unmatched?but what truly makes them exceptional is how much they care about their clients. I especially want to recognize Kellie Mitchell, who went above and beyond to support me during a difficult time. Her empathy, patience, and genuine kindness made a huge difference?not just professionally, but personally as well. She trea
We are a nonprofit which must carefully account for all our spending, as well as watch expenses with vigilance. Our first accountant retired 4 years ago and we had been though 2 other CPAs before we found Tom Tschopp. Our books were a disaster, our tax returns had not been filed by the other accountants and financial records were a mess. Tom rectified the problems very quickly and has been a huge asset, not just with our books and taxes, but with general business counsel as well. We recommend him and hi
We just had our taxes done by Dan. He was thorough, efficient, and accurate. I am pretty sure those are the big 3 when it comes to accounting. We had a couple of questions and he responded within a few hours. We will be using them again.
Mike Schafer assisted me in preparing and filing my 2011 taxes. He was professional, prompt in responding to my inquiries, and helped me save money. I recommend Schafer Tschopp to anyone looking for a good accountant.
If you need taxes done don t pick these guys. It took three months to get them to answer a five question E-mail. You must chase them down for information and beg them for meetings, and when you do they charge you through the roof for each E-mail they read or meeting you have, always rounding up for the time it cost them to talk to you. Could not be more unhappy.
We've been using Joe Mitchell for years. We're a small business with pretty complicated tax returns and between Rose and Joe we're able to keep a small finance department with their support.
Best accounting firm I know. I have been going to Dan for 3 years. Personal, trusts, and businesses they can take care of your needs. Excellent service.
Best in the business
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.