*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.*
720 Norland Ave
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania 17201
For 20 years we have had an outstanding relationship with Schultheiss & Associates. Through daily financial activities and difficult business transactions we have always been given advice and service that we could trust. In my business, relationships matter and our relationship with the staff here allows the honest discussions that are so important to making good decisions. I'd go nowhere else!
I have been a client of Schultheiss &Associates for over 8 years. I have been dealing mostly with Mike H . The way they stay on top of the tax information and keep me informed on a yearly basis is fantastic. They are extremely professional however there?s a great personal touch that means a lot to me. I would highly recommend this firm for its professionalism extreme trustworthiness. Ed Gorton
I have been working with and relying on Mike Hargelroad at Schultheiss and Associates for nearly twenty years for business and personal accounting services. The commitment Mike has made to my finacial needs has provided me a sense of ease knowing that it is in good hands. The professional competency and personal touch provided by Schultheiss and Associates ensures that I will be client for decades to come.
Working with Schultheiss & Associates is always a great experience. They are based in PA and I don't live there anymore but I would not trust my taxes with anybody else. Just the other day my CPA went through the changes in the tax code with me and estimated what those changes would mean to my taxes in April 2019. Amazing service!!!
Paul Schultheiss Has been my accountant for 25 years there isn?t a man that Has more integrity and dedication to his clients then he does I can?t say. I can?t say enough about our relationship over the years and how he has helped us in so many different ways you would never be sorry he used him as an accountant or his firm. His associate and his toy are always helpful overly courteous and it makes me proud to be and one of his clients.
I'am very please with Schultheiss & Associates! I recommend them to all of my friends that own a business! They have helped me grow my business from the ground up. Starting with the formation of our LLC., payroll, quarterly taxes, P&L's. All the way to our most recent growth in the form of a acquisition of another business in another state. From start to finish they worked tirelessly and met the deadline. Everyone in this firm is dedicated to making sure things are done quickly, affectively and correctly
Excellent Service. Everyone at the office is friendly and helpful. They have helped with my quickbook questions and issues. Most importantly the communication is exceptional. I would recommend them for both big and large businesses as I have worked with them in both capacities.
Excellent, Professional and prompt! William A Prentice, CPA has done my tax returns for years and have always been processed promptly and with no issues from the IRS. I highly recommend this tax firm!!
Schultheiss & Associates have been our accountants since my husband and I started our Real Estate Company in 1996. We are greatful for their guidance & expertise and highly recommend their services!
We have worked with Schultheiss & Associates for years for personal and business taxes. They are always friendly and quick to respond. I highly recommend their services.
Very professional , would recommend anyone starting a small business to contact Schultheiss & Associates. Someone is always available to answer questions and provide helpful guidance.
We had a bad experience with Mike and are now having to get our attorneys involved. My opinion would be to look elsewhere.
Schultheiss and associates has been doing my taxes for over a decade and I am well pleased , special requests are taken care of quickly and you always talk to a real person when you call
Our company has been with Schultheiss & Associates nearly a decade now, they are experts and they have always been there for us in a pinch to help with a problem and in the long run to help improve our systems.
I've relied on the team at Schultheiss for several years now and they're service has been excellent. They are always cheerful and competent.
Great experience with Mike and Brenda over the past 7 years handling both my corporate and personal returns!
I would not use them again.
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.