*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.*
12990 Livestock Rd
Sykesville, Maryland 21784
This service is amazing. Very user friendly, accurate and timely. I highly recommend Stapf Financials for Financial Planning and Tax services.
We've been working with Linda at Stapf Financials for a while and we?ve had a great experience so far! Very attentive, always answer questions in timely manner and seems very knowledgeable and direct, her staff is also great. Keep up the good work:-)
Stapf financial makes tax season a breeze. I personally am unable to make time to handle them on my own. This is my second year using them. Linda puts together a easy to fallow video allowing me to understand step by step break down of my filings. She is to the point, let's you know what is needed and everything is done in a timely manner. Thank you and look foward to coming back next year and years to follow.
As a small business owner having the peace of mind of knowing that I'm working with a fantastic accountant is truly so stress-relieving! Linda Stapf and her team have been incredible to work with from the start of my business. They've always been so willing to answer all of my questions, and continue to offer helpful advice and provide excellent service. I truly cannot recommend them enough!
I was extremely nervous looking for a new accountant. I'm a first time business owner and felt I wasn't getting the help I needed. From the first email & phone calls, I felt right at ease! I had interviewed other accountants but Linda, Becky and the entire staff treated me like I was already their client. They looked into my business with their "deep dive" approach to truly understand what my needs were. They then had a 30 min consultation with me and brought up questions and scenarios that I haven't th
Staph Financial has supported my company - and personal - tax planning, filing and strategy for the past several years. Every time I speak with the team, I'm confident they're working in my best interest. Incredibly competent and have saved me thousands. Additionaly Linda has created 'Done in Five', a tool for long term financial success for individuals and enteprenaurs for a better understanding of their options and to learn to steer the results.
Stapf Financial has a unique approach as they have professional staff that can guide clients on how to most efficiently run their financial/tax/book keeping aspect of their business. This allows for the client to SEE their own business clearly and make adjustments as needed. They enlightened me to systems that are available to make my book keeping easy and actually enjoyable. I got the polite push where I needed it most! This is already improving my bottom line of the business and I can clearly see bene
Since 1997 I have had the greatest experience and pleasure of being associated with Stapf Financial!!! They are very knowledgeable, take pride in their service and are an integral part to the growth of our company(s). From QuickBooks, taxes, business profit planning and tax planning to name a few, the attention to detail, answering questions and moral support are wonderful. They listen, understand, communicate and respond well. I am forever grateful to Stapf Financial for all they have done and continue
I think of Linda Stapf as my financial therapist in addition to being a skilled and knowledgeable financial adviser. She has a steady hand and calming voice. I have used Stapf Financial for about two decades, through many (personal and market) highs and lows.
Linda Stapf and her colleagues have expertly helped my family plan toward our financial goals. We know that we can rely on their advice to help us get where we're going. Taxes, insurance, business planning, retirement planning...they do it all. Linda takes a holistic approach...balancing all the variables...when guiding us toward financial decisions. It's not just about prosperity later, but also about living well now. Finances are complicated, planning is required, and in our long-term relationship with Li
Stapf Financial has been very helpful and knowledgeable to ensure we are complying with filing our taxes and identifying way or areas to help save or reduce taxes.
I love working with Linda Stapf and her staff! The are very knowledgeable and easy to work with. I have absolute confidence in their ability to help me manage my money.
I started going to Linda when I practiced medicine in Baltimore in the late 90?s and after I moved to Iowa in 2002, I stayed with her!! She has given me the best service for over 25 years!!! What a team!!!
Linda and her staff are extremely helpful. Their expertise on tax and financial topics is always on target. Would definitely recommend!
Linda and her staff do a great job. Very responsive to any of our questions or concerns. Highly recommend.
The staff is great, always friendly, always helpful and able to answer questions. I've been using them for years and I travel 25 miles to get to their office because it is worth it.
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.