*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.*
5005 Cascade Rd SE
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546
Unfortunately I had a terrible experience with Sonder CPA and I'm leaving this review to hopefully help someone else not make the same mistake I did by using them. Their communication was terrible, they charged me over $10,000 my first year as a client to prepare my taxes. When I asked how it could be that expensive they said it was because it was my first year and onboarding is expensive. So my second year comes around, and it's the same cost, only this year I made sure not to call or ask many questions, t
The team at Sonder is exceptional. They are thorough when addressing concerns and problems that you may have. I have been using them for over a decade and they are one of my easiest business partners to work with. I would like to give a personal shoutout to Linda, who runs their payroll processing, she is a 1 of 1. The culture there puts the client first and it shows from the interns to the executive team. Client for life.
Sonders CPA goes beyond the STARS! We have done our homework on researching CPA firms to partner with our business and landed on Sonder. The professionalism, the skillset and the attention to detail has been nothing short of amazing. I would say that even beyond that is the staff that works so very hard to make sure they cover every detail. One of which is Linda, who in our opinion, goes over and beyond with every interaction. If you are looking for a firm that hits ever mark, look no further that Sonder CP
Struggling with your business finances? Sonder CPA can help! They're professional, responsive, and always explain things clearly. No more accounting headaches. Truly a fantastic environment with trustworthy workers who put their clients first. Highly recommend!!
Very bad and sad experience when we were told (by Denise )that they would no longer take care of our company taxes unless we had them do our personal taxes also. They charged us way to much for personal. Only had few weeks to find another CPA. Still finding things done incorrectly after they, what we call ?dumped ? us. We had done business with one of their CPAs for 20+ years when he decided to partner with Pennell. A good friend of ours still have their business taxes done by Pennell, and never had their
I love the new brand! I had an excellent experience with this firm. The staff are incredibly pleasant and professional, making every interaction enjoyable. Their attention to detail and expertise made the entire process smooth and stress-free.
Our company has been working with Fred for years now. We are convinced that he saves us more in taxes than we pay him for his services. The staff is awesome. I would highly recommend Pennell CPA to any business owner.
We have been delighted with Linda's payroll skills and services at Donati!
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.