*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.*
10 Colvin Ave
Albany, New York 12206
Unresponsive to phone and email. Phone number shows up under a different name (Heritage Financial Group LLC). Possibly shut down? April 2025.
Staff Ciampino & Company is a true pleasure to work with. From the very beginning to the end, they were genuinely interested in helping us with our taxes and tax questions. The service is second to none, the staff is friendly and great to deal with. I haven't hesitated to recommend them to family, friends, and co-workers. They have a personal, friendly, yet professional touch that made us feel we made a great choice in who did our taxes.
I'm a self-employed American living abroad, so my taxes are a little complicated. I've been using Staff Ciampino's services for five years, with Neil Goca as my accountant. The whole team are great; they make it super easy to submit everything, they answer my questions promptly, and they give me good tax advice. Their fee is far less than what I've saved in tax penalties by using them. Very happy with their services and highly recommend!
Working with Staff Ciampino & Company is always an absolute pleasure. They are the best and most dependable CPA firm in the area. Any questions or concerns you have while doing your taxes are quickly answered and they are there to help with anything you need. It is always a stress free process when working with Staff Ciampino. I highly recommend Staff Ciampino & Company to anyone!
Dan Ciampino and his staff have been my families personal and Business accountant for over 30 years. They not only stay up on current tax issues/law they also always have our best interests in mind. Personal boutique feel with all the horsepower you'd ever need!
I have been with the Staff Ciampino Company for little over 30 years. I started with Michael Staff as my lead person and I had the great fortune of having Jami Olsen take over my account 25 years ago. I have owned and sold 2 businesses, built and sold 5 residences and was employed as a sales consultant in New York, Florida and Virginia. Jami has been with me all during my business and professional careers. She has provided me with the most outstanding service you can get. Year after year she has used
Staff Ciampino and Company made our first year filing our taxes after creating an LLC for our rental properties a breeze. They sat down with us in person and walked us through the steps we needed to take and the documentation they would need to help us file. During the process they always easy to reach, and they were always eager to help!
In all my years of paying taxes and dealing with CPAs, Staff Ciampino stands out far above the rest. They're not your typical CPA in which they don't do your standard run of the mill W2 return. Quick turn-around times, expert advice and a team that will go the extra mile for you is what makes Staff Ciampino my choice when it comes to accounting and tax advice services. They are always there when you need them, unlike many other companies. Staff & Ciampino are going to be my CPA for a very long time!
I have been a client of Staff Ciampino for many years and have been thrilled with their service and expertise. All of the staff are friendly, knowledgeable and accomodating to your needs. I consder them a partner more than an accountant. They have helped me with some tough decisions and are my "sounding board". I recommend them highly for personal andf business use.
I recently started my own business and found myself in need of accounting services when Staff Ciampino was recommended to me. Upon my Initial meeting with Dan, I instantly felt at ease and in good hands. The process was informative, seamless and efficient. I can't speak highly enough of Dan and his staff, their knowledge & professionalism is unparalleled. - Hunter Nezelek, President, Kure Solutions
I had the pleasure of working with Neal during this tax season. His professionalism and availability made the process very easy and carefree. Doing your taxes is not always easy and can be quiet stressful. Neal helped tremendously with organization my documents and limiting the pressure.
This firm has been doing my taxes since 1972 when Abraham Staff was in solo practice. They are knowledgeable, professional, friendly and do a fantastic job. I wouldn't think of going anywhere else.
I have been using this firm for almost ten years. They are extremely professional and reliable. They answer phone calls promptly and are always current on changes in the law. I work with partner Neil Goca whose advice I have found invaluable. I would highly recommend this firm.
Staff Ciampino and company have been wonderful in supporting our two small businesses and our personal accounting needs. Highly professional and a pleasure to deal with.
I file my taxes early and they are always ready to accommodate me. They suggest ways to save money . They are professional and prompt when returning my return. Reasonable fees . Highly recommend there service
Always a pleasure to work with Dan, Neil, Steve and Bob. They respect the needs of small and large businesses alike. I highly recommend.
My parents and myself and my children have been clients of Staff Ciampino for over 65 years - that speaks of how much we value our relationship with this firm.
The firm is great to work with and very responsive. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for tax preparation
Great people, any time I've interacted with them in business it has been a pleasure
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.