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Searle Hart & Associates PLLC

Searle Hart & Associates PLLC

Reviews Summary

Most reviews are highly positive (5-star), praising the team's expertise, professionalism, and helpfulness, especially for business taxes. Many highlight prompt service, trustworthiness, and personalized care. A few negative reviews cite poor communication, unreturned messages, or unexpected price increases. Overall, the firm is well-regarded, with long-term clients appreciating their consistent quality, though some express dissatisfaction with recent service changes.

About This Listing

Accounting
Audit
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Estate and Trust Tax

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Accounting
Audit
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Estate and Trust Tax

Contact Information

Address

412 Grand Loop

Rexburg, Idaho 83440

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM-5PM
Tuesday 8AM-5PM
Wednesday 8AM-5PM
Thursday 8AM-5PM
Friday 8AM-5PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

I used Searle Hart for years to do my taxes, and had good experiences. I CAN NO LONGER RECOMMEND THEIR SERVICES. They doubled the price of having do my taxes, but did not tell me about the increase until after services had been rendered. Bill had been my accountant for almost a decade. This last year I couldn?t even get an accountant to return my phone call after weeks of leaving messages. You?re better off using a cheaper service. At least the price will match the experience.

Our business has used Searle Hart for over 15 years for tax accounting! We work primarily with Bill Tanner.

I've been using Searle Hart & Associates since 2012. They have always done a great job and usually catch things that other tax and accounting services miss. I have always recommended them and will continue to use them. I have used them for my contract work and for my out of state taxes. I trust them wholeheartedly. They ask the right questions and make sure that I have the correct documentation. Again, great company.

Everyone here has done a great job. We?ve been using Bill for 3 years and he has always done great work for us. I would highly recommend using Bill as your tax accountant. Stephanie is also great. She's super friendly and always willing to help. THANK YOU

I've been with Searle Hart for 18 years. They've taken great care of me. Bill Tanner has been very professional and has always gone above and beyond my expectations! I would highly recommend them.

Bill Tanner at Searle Hart & Associates is an amazing CPA. He is always available and willing to answer questions that can impact me financially as to my taxes and he is super patient. Being a small business owner, Bill has also directed me to other professionals in his network that have really helped my business be successful. Thank you Bill!! Tim Anderson, President PureDefense Pest Solutions, Inc. Alpharetta, Georgia

Bill and Dana are great to work with and they care about their clients. They try to do the best they can for them. They are honest and will tell you if a tax deduction could get you in trouble or not but they also have a lot of great strategies to save business owners money on taxes.

I used to dread April 15th but not anymore. Searle Hart & Associates, particularly William Tanner, have completely removed the anxiety and stress of tax season. Choosing to have my taxes done by them is one of the best financial decisions I have ever made; my only regret is not turning to them 10 years sooner. Everyone in the office is friendly and a pleasure to work with, I can't imagine doing my taxes any other way.

We have been using Searle Hart for many years now and they are always very friendly, work hard for us, and do a wonderful job preparing and submitting our taxes. I highly recommend them.

We highly recommend Searle Hart & Associates. They have been very good to work with. Hailey Wible has done a great job meeting our needs and we plan to continue to use this groups great service!

Bill, Angela and Stephanie have been great to work with! I've used them for taxes, payroll, individual taxes and other odds and ends that are definitely not standard "tax" questions. They have always had great insights and I have yet to stump them with a question.

I have had a great experience having my personal taxes done here for the past several years. I'm a remote client and the process is still completely painless. Totally worth the (very reasonable) cost for the thorough work they do!

Steve and his staff are very smart and helpful and have worked magic with my taxes. Always available for any questions and I trust them ??. Steve has been a Rexburg staple for many years. You will be in good hands!!

Searle Hart and Associates are the best in town!! Bill is great to work with and has done great work for our company and Brenda is super helpful and does so much for us!

I've worked with Searle Hart for several years and have always been impressed with their services. Very prompt, professional, and a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend them.

Steve Hart is the only way to go when it comes to a CPA. Highly reccomend he and his team for their services!

I would highly recommend having your taxes prepared elsewhere. Steve Hart is just not an honest man and the customer service here is horrible. We really got taken advantage of, unfortunately.

Bill Tanner has been doing our taxes for years. Very impressed with their work and couldn?t be happier with their service.

Bill Tanner is an excellent CPA. I highly recommend this firm for accounting and tax prep.

Steve and his team do great work. I have worked with them for many years!

Great team with insights that make running a business a little bit easier for those that don't specialize in accounting.

They were awesome to work with. They got it done quick and made it super easy.

Bill is awesome. Super helpful and knows his stuff!

Such great service & support, very helpful & considerate & professional. 5 stars

Got my taxes done quick. Great job

If you want your tax return or an email back even... this isn?t the place to go....

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.

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