*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.*
3460 Ellicott Center Dr # 105A
Ellicott City, Maryland 21043
I?ve known Tammy and Brett for 5 or 6 years now and they and their staff are fantastic. I work directly with Tammy and she has done a wonderful job of helping me get my business up and running from a tax perspective, as well as making adjustments as I?ve grown. She also takes great care of friends and clients that I refer to her. Super pleasant and competent and I highly recommend her and her team.
Over the last 5 years, Taurus CPAs has served as my law practice's accounting firm & they also provide tax services for a real estate investment company of which I am a partner. They also prepare my personal tax returns. Tammy Schneider & her team could not be more responsive & she provides me with business planning advice as well. Tammy is a true tax and accounting professional & expert in every sense. Thank you, Tammy & Taurus !
Look elsewhere! I have been paying my retainer for tax preparation services all year, but when I emailed them in September with a few year end tax prep questions, I received no response. Waited a few weeks, tried email again and gave their office several calls. I have left multiple voicemails, simply asking for a call back ??still no response or answers. Maybe they have gone out of business? Either way, very disappointed in the total lack of communication from this firm and will be moving on.
I can't say enough how pleased I am with this firm. After being frustrated with my former CPA, a colleague referred me to Tammy Schneider to prepare our personal and small business taxes for 2020. Tammy and her team are knowledgeable, efficient, and a true pleasure to work with. We will be working with Taurus from now on.
The staff at Taurus CPA Solutions are helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive. While the tax code can be stressful and complicated, the accountants of Taurus navigate it with ease. I recommend Taurus to my own clients every chance I get.
Taurus CPA Solutions is a full service accounting, tax and consulting firm offering a broad range of professional services focused on the needs of business owners. I can attest that being a small business owner is scary. They help take the fear out of finances by providing solutions and education to their clients.
Brett and Donna are awesome! Really hands on during the tax process and always helpful throughout the year. Highly recommend!
The staff at Taurus CPA is wonderful to work with. Very responsive, always answering questions, and quick turnarounds. Highly recommend!
This CPA firm is the real-deal- They have laser focus on their clients and have the knowledge to help you with daily or difficult accounting procedures. If you are a small business I would highly recommend giving them a call.
The group of people at this firm are excellent!!!! Very professional and efficient. I've been working with Brett for years and highly recommend them.
The team here is great - easy to work with and very professional. Highly recommend!
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.