Sterling Tax Accountant - CPA Firm Sarasota FL ( Bookkeeping, Accounting, Tax Preparation & CFO Services )

Sterling Tax Accountant - CPA Firm Sarasota FL ( Bookkeeping, Accounting, Tax Preparation & CFO Services )

Reviews Summary

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight exceptional professionalism, expertise, and responsiveness. Customers consistently praise meticulous attention to detail, strong communication, and reliable tax/accounting services. Many appreciate the team's ability to resolve complex IRS issues and provide strategic financial guidance. QuickBooks proficiency, secure document handling, and virtual CFO services receive frequent commendation. While one reviewer noted higher pricing and tech complexity for some clients, the vast majority emphasize trust, efficiency, and peace of mind. The firm is widely recommended for both personal and business needs, with particular appreciation for their organized approach and ability to simplify complex financial matters.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Virtual CFO
Small Businesses
Real Estate
Healthcare
Professional Services
Technology
QuickBooks
Gusto

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

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Virtual CFO
Small Businesses
Real Estate
Healthcare
Professional Services
Technology
QuickBooks
Gusto

Contact Information

Address

7142 S Beneva Rd

Sarasota, Florida 34238

Hours

Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday 9AM-5PM
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

Sarasota Tax Accounting was our accounting firm at THE SARASOTA COLLECTION HOME STORE for many years. This firm has the utmost integrity and professionalism in the business. Although we are not currently a client with them, we look forward to a time when we are able to resume our relationship. We highly recommend their services.

Lea and her team do an amazing job and have built a welcoming, family-like culture for their clients! Their dedication and professionalism make them a standout choice for CPA and bookkeeping services. I highly recommend them to anyone in need!

They are always there to explain everything and answer all questions. Very pleased with the service that we are receiving. I would not trust anyone else with our personal and business taxes.

The team at Sterling Tax & Accounting helped me and my company gets our finances together for filing our taxes. They were professional and very knowledgeable about bookkeeping and financial reporting. I will definitely work with them again and recommend them to anyone that needs help with bookkeeping consulting services in Sarasota FL.

I have been with Sterling Tax for many years now, and I just have to give them a huge shout out for doing such an excellent job with my taxes over the years. Lea is second to none. She is top-notch and an absolute professional through and through. I wouldn?t even consider going somewheres else. If you need a great accounting service definitely check her out.

Sterling Tax & Accounting's virtual CFO services in Sarasota are unparalleled. Their expertise and professionalism shone through in every interaction. Highly recommend their meticulous financial guidance for any local business seeking top-tier support.

We have used Sterling services for both our business and personal accounting needs. They stepped in and saved us when our previous accountant literally disappeared off the face of the earth just a few weeks before the tax deadline. Leah and her staff are extremely competent, helpful and professional. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a professional accounting firm

I have been using Lea and her team for over 4 years now. Her team is the most knowledgeable, organized, diligent and friendly group I've ever worked with. Sterling handles my personal and business tax and accounting needs as well as payroll. I couldn't be more pleased with her services. I would recommend Sterling to any individual or business searching for accounting or tax needs.

Lea Graf has assisted me for many years. She is always available, knowledgeable and comforting. I have had to ask her multiple questions about probate and business issues. I consider her a friend and a wonderful helping hand. Using her services has been a wonderful experience for me.

My wife and I have been clients of Sterling Tax & Accounting since 2015 for both our business and personally. I have worked with a few accountants over the past 35 years and have never been more satisfied with the quality of their tax and accounting services. Lea has been very helpful in answering questions about QuickBooks for my business and giving me tax advice when I need it, which I really appreciate. Everyone who I deal with at Sperling is very friendly and professional, which makes for a very positi

I've been using Lea and her team for 5+ years for my LLC, personal and wife's taxes. Sterling is very professional and expert on the Quickbooks cloud system and takes security of electronic documents, etc very seriously. They helped us when the IRS misclassified one of our quarterly payments and sent us letters saying we owed and had accrued penalties. Sterling made multiple calls to help straighten the situation out for us. While Lea has a team that handles the onslaught of business around tax time, she's

Look no further for outsourced bookkeeping services in Sarasota?Sterling Tax & Accounting nails it! Their expertise surpasses expectations, delivering personalized solutions promptly. Lea N. Graf and her team redefine excellence in tax and accounting services.

Sterling Tax & Accounting delivered unmatched tax resolution services in Sarasota. Quick, professional, and effective ? my experience surpassed expectations. Grateful for their expertise in navigating tax complexities, ensuring financial peace of mind.

Lea and her team have been instrumental in the growth of our business - I've used her services since 2014, and cannot stress how much time her and her team have saved me - both on business and personal accounting. She is extremely knowledgeable and organized, and I could not imagine running our business day to day without her team behind us! I highly recommend Sterling Accounting for anyone looking for any business or personal accounting help.

Seeking bookkeeping and accounting services in Sarasota? Look no further than Sterling Tax & Accounting. Their professionalism and customer-centric approach make them a top choice. Highly recommended!

Lea and her team at Sterling Tax and Accounting are beyond incredible! What they have done for our business in just a few months has completely revolutionized our business. Their customer service and professionalism are incredible and they are cutting edge! I could not be happier! You have to do business with them!

Lea and the team at Sterling are very courteous and attentive. Very skilled! I?ve been using them for over 5 years and they?re all the best in Sarasota.

Lea inherited my business account when our previous accountant retired. At the time we were in the midst of a protracted dispute with the IRS. Lea and her team took on the issue along with our regular business. She was patient and dogmatic in her communication with the IRS and ultimately successfully resolved the matter. I cannot fully express my gratitude and relief. Their office has continually impressed me with their knowledge, professionalism and high level of customer service. I highly recommen

Lea and her team are professionals and will equipped to handle every one of your accounting and payroll needs. They have done a great job for me over the years and are highly sophisticated. Strongly recommend!

Lea and her team have been with me since day one of starting my business and I couldn't be happier with the services they've been able to provide. I can't put a price on the peace of mind I get from knowing that my payroll, bookkeeping, and tax preparation are in good hands which allows me to focus on the day to day operations of my business. I can't recommend Sterling Tax & Accounting enough.

It is such a relief to have an excellent CPA partner, they are up to date on all facets of my business and are very quick to respond. Their systems used for payroll, communication etc is excellent and very secure. I highly recommend and have to several others. Brian

Excellent experience with Sterling Tax & Accounting. Everyone in the company has been very helpful, and I depend on their help. Very helpful during and after the Covid-19 Pandemic and navigating the PPP loans. They make my job so much easier, and truly that is why I love this company.

We love Lea! She solved our problem in 5 minutes while QB online tech support couldn't resolve our issue inside of a 1 hour tech support session. Lots of value!

Sterling Tax & Accounting handles several companies for us and they are prompt, knowledgeable and excellent to work with. They are extremely professional and efficient and I'd highly recommend them to anyone looking for accounting/bookkeeping for their firm.

Looking for CPA accounting in Sarasota? Sterling Tax & Accounting is the answer! Their responsiveness and dedication to clients set a high standard. Smooth bookkeeping and tax services?I'll be back!

We tirelessly searched the entire country to find the perfect fit of small firm service, with big firm capabilities. Sterling was the best choice for all my companies and recommend them very highly.

Lea and her team are phenomenal! She's my go-to for both business and personal finances, and even helps with day to day accounting work & strategy. I'm 100% confident in her work, and recommend her to anyone!

Could not recommend a better firm for a small business. Leah and her team are very knowledgeable and easy to work with. They deliver the tax savings that they promise. Can?t ask for more.

Lea and her team are very knowledgeable and organized. They use up to date methods to deliver your accounting needs to you in the most easy and efficient way. We use her for Quickbooks help and training, monthly books, tax preparation, and much more. She is always there to answers questions I have that arise during day to day bookkeeping.

Sterling is a 5 star firm! As a business owner, we needed special attention and solutions and they provided us with above and beyond service! I would recommend them to anyone.

Sterling Tax & Accounting does an amazing job for us taxes, business advice, bookkeeping, payroll and more. Lea Graf and her team are top notch, knowledgeable, and professional. Thank you!

This accounting group is phenomenal! Their attention to detail and level of communication is fantastic! You can feel comfortable and secure in Sterlings hand!! Highly recommended!

Working with Lea and her team is a delight. I'm a small business owner and she helps me with my bookkeeping, business taxes, and personal taxes. I highly recommend working with her!

Lea is incredibly knowledgeable and easy to work with. She makes what I feel like must be the most terrible time of year ever (tax season) seem a little less unbearable and daunting for managing my business and personal needs.

I have saved many many dollars in taxes by utilizing the strategic expertise of Lea Graf and her team. It took years for me to find this group. I am very grateful!

Great company. Very patient and understanding. Knowledgeable and professional. I recommend Sterling Tax & Accounting to everyone.

As a small business owner, I love working with Lea and would highly recommend her. Great to work with, and very knowledgeable.

Conscious , concise and accurate. For both my personal and business taxes, Sterling Tax always delivers on-time and within budget.

Lea is thorough, professional, gracious, knowledgeable and on time! I highly recommend her services.

Great experience, wonderful feedback, could not be any happier with Leah and her staff.

They are very thorough, organized, and professional I highly recommend.

A bit pricey and may be too much tech use for older patients that do not navigate "Smart Vault" document system.

Excellent customer service! Very professional! Best I have ever had!

Great peace of mind to have such a diverse group of professionals taking care of all our tax concerns.

Lea and her crew at Sterling Tax and Accounting are the BEST!

Lea Graf and her team are outstanding in there service

Great team with thorough knowledge of the tax codes.

Fantastic customer service! You guys are the best!

The team is always professional, quick and accurate.

This firm keeps me out of trouble with the federal and state tax authorities

Lea is very responsive, professional, and helpful.

Amazing accountants. Highly recommend them!

Very professional and polite.

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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