*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.*
640 Delp Rd
Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17601
Allen, Chuck, and their entire team have been invaluable partners to our business. Their expertise goes beyond just filing taxes; they've provided crucial, actionable advice that has significantly benefited our operations. What truly sets them apart is their commitment to ensuring we understand the 'why' behind tax regulations and business concepts, explaining complex topics with exceptional clarity. The team is consistently professional, incredibly attentive, and their prompt follow-up is reliable. We feel
I went in for a consultation on May 27th. They collected $325 from me. Ive called 3 times since to get a status update. One of the times I was on hold for 10 minutes, because they couldn't find my file. Very unprofessional. Never heard back from them once. I would not use them for anything tax or business related.
Contacted them about some PA sales tax issues. Very polite, responsive, and got me the information I need asap. I would and will reach out too them in a heart beat when something tax related comes up!
My wife Susan and I have been working with Stambaugh Tax Law & Accounting Co, since 2019. Charles and Allen, and their entire staff have been friendly and helpful with tax resolution and preparation issues, and have been transparent and honest at every step of the process. The service and guidance we receive from Stambaugh is a blessing. Allen has gone out of his way at the height of tax season to provide direct, personal consultation to address our questions and concerns. I absolutely recommend Stambau
A friend referred me to Allen to process the taxes for my small business. I can't say enough good about my experience. I truly appreciate the in-person meetings to discuss my tax returns in a manner that I can easily understand. I'm also grateful for the opportunity to strategize for the next year's tax return. That input each year helps me to reduce my tax burden and put money back in my pocket. I highly recommend working with Allen!
I have had the privilege of working with Allen Stambaugh as my business accountant, and I can confidently say that he is nothing short of exceptional in his field. His expertise and commitment to delivering top-notch service have made a significant positive impact on my business. Allen possesses an unparalleled understanding of tax laws, financial strategies, and accounting practices. He has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure that my business is financially sound and compliant with all regulation
After many years of using TurboTax to fight my way though my Federal, State and Local taxes, it became apparent that this process was better handled by a professional. For the last 4 or 5 years I have used Allen Stambaugh for estimating my returns and filing all required tax reporting. What was once a dreaded time of the year has become far more enjoyable. Allen has proven to be very knowledgeable in the field of tax, takes our annual data and prepares all required forms/schedules ready for explanation and
By far the easiest, stress-free experience I've had in doing my taxes! Allen was incredibly helpful in explaining my taxes, answering all the questions I asked him, and gave me suggestions for next year's taxes. I will definitely be coming back next year!
This was our first time using a tax filing service. Allen and staff were professional, efficient and timely. Explanations of our returns were through and understandable in our face-to-face meeting. Advice on giving strategies for the future were welcome. We?re happy customers!
We were pleased with the tax service provided by Allen Stambaugh. He and his staff were friendly and thorough. He gave us helpful pointers for next year as well.
The staff at Stambaugh Law and Accounting are always courteous, professional and knowledgeable. From tax law to tax filing to payroll, working with this team is the best business decision I ever made.
Knowledgeable, professional and personalized service for individuals and businesses. I've been a client for years and have been consistently impressed with the extra mile they go to help me succeed.
This firm is very thorough and does its best to serve its clients well. All member states of the staff are informative and quiet to respond to any and all questions or concerns.
Very professional and thorough.
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.