*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.*
20306 67th Ave E
Bradenton, Florida 34211
Melanie is the best CPA. I have used her for over 20 years. She is amazing at staying on top of the yearly changes and helps me get all of the deductions allowed with my business. I call her anytime I have questions. Sheis so knowledgeable! I would be lost without her in my business quarterly, payroll and yearly taxes.
Melanie has been taking care of my taxes for over 10 years and is the absolute best! She is not only highly skilled, knowledgeable and dependable but also has incredible customer service and compassion. Melanie spends time educating me on current updates each year and takes time to explain my taxes and answer questions in depth. I highly recommend Melanie!
Melanie has been handling my taxes since I was barely old enough to work. Since then, I?ve lived in multiple different states, deployed to different countries, gotten married, had children? life.. 14 years of it. She?s been there for it all and still manages to keep track of the personal, non-tax related, puzzle pieces. That?s the type of service you can expect. Professional, friendly and familiar!!
Melanie is the absolute best. She really cares about all of her clients and is an expert in the accounting industry. My family and I have been working with her for the last 5 years. She helps us with our business taxes, personal taxes, and bookkeeping. She is loyal and trustworthy. I admire her expertise and professionalism. I will definitely be a lifetime client. I would recommend her to anyone!
I have used Melanie for 10+ years when it comes to filing my taxes. She goes through everything, explains it well and gives advice for areas that she sees may be a concern. She cares about her customers and treat you as if you are family. She really leave no stone unturned in filing your taxes honestly and getting the best results for you! Definitely would recommend her and have. I have moved around the country several times but always file with her!!
Melanie is amazing! She?s been doing my taxes for over 5 years and we are lifetime customers. She?s quick, efficient and very knowledgeable. I?ve never had any issues with my taxes being prepared and have complete trust in her that I won?t ever have any. Even moving across the globe won?t keep us away lol she is the friendliest tax preparer I?ve ever met. Thank you for continuing to be our go to girl.
Melanie with Tax Wizards is our go to for our taxes for 15+ years now for personal taxes and business taxes. She really knows her stuff and is amazing to work with on a personal level. Highly highly highly recommend you will love working with her.
Melanie is truly THE Tax Wizard! She's extremely knowledgeable, organized, and FAST! I've owed the IRS several thousand dollars due to my ignorance and filing my own taxes. Melanie definitely saved me!
I highly recommend Melanie at Tax Wizards East! I've been a customer for well over 10 years and her service is top-notch. She is extremely knowledgeable, caring and an expert in her field. I will definitely be a lifetime client!
I have been using Melanie for many years! She always saves me so much money "legally" =) I would recommend her every time! She is so nice and easy to talk to.
It?s been 14 years I am doing my tax with Melanie.she is very professional and competent,she will help you the right way to do your tax.she is very responding when you have a question during the year about your tax. I am very happy I found her. I will recommend her to anyone who wants to do the tax return.
I have used Tax Wizards East for many years & have always received stellar service. Melanie is professional & prompt with tax preparation and is also a genuinely nice person. I wouldn?t consider going to anyone else!
My husband and I have clients of Melanie?s for the past thirteen years, and we won?t go anywhere else for our taxes. Melanie is always there for any tax needs. Thanks Melanie!
Melanie was quick and professional. She?s helpful, explains things to me in language I can understand and I?ll definitely be seeing her next year!
Melanie is the consummate professional who goes above and beyond. I won?t go anywhere else to get my taxes done. I will be a lifetime customer!
Melanie has done our taxes for many years and look forward to continuing to work with her for many more.
Melanie is very friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. She rocks, ill never let anyone else file my taxes??????
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.