The A.C.T. Group, LLC

The A.C.T. Group, LLC

Reviews Summary

The A.C.T. Group receives mostly positive reviews, with many praising their expertise, reliability, and professional service. Customers highlight their responsiveness, fair pricing, and helpful guidance, especially for small businesses. However, some report negative experiences, including billing disputes, poor communication, and unprofessional behavior. A few cite significant errors in tax filings and incorrect advice, leading to financial losses. While most reviewers highly recommend them, a minority strongly caution against their services due to these issues. Overall, satisfaction appears high, but experiences vary significantly.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
QuickBooks

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
Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
QuickBooks

Contact Information

Address

1227 W Devon Ave

Chicago, Illinois 60660

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Tuesday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Wednesday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Thursday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Friday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Last year, I consulted ACT Group because I started a small business and wanted to get guidance for properly filing taxes. I also wanted to support a local business. ACT Group (working with Kevin) was extremely helpful in guiding me through different deductions and making sure I submitted everything necessary. They also assisted me in calculating an estimated payment for both state and federal taxes. They had a straightforward online platform to upload documents and to also receive documents from them. I p

The ACT Group has handled my business and personal accounting and tax accounting for over 10 years. They have always been the perfect partner for me and my small business. The ACT Group understand the unique needs of a small business. They are responsive, responsible, flexible and service-oriented. They?ve provided me with invaluable guidance and insight over the years. As a small business owner and create professional, their service and support provides me great peace-of-mind and allows me to focus on

I do not recommend the tax preparation services of the A.C.T. Group. The initial quote they provided me was quite high ($350 personal, $450 nonprofit) but at first I was impressed with their consultation and bit the bullet. Unfortunately, when my taxes were complete, I was billed for an amount substantially higher than I was originally quoted (for both my personal and nonprofit's taxes). I found their communication with me to be spotty and often quite delayed. My nonprofit paperwork wasn't completed until l

The ACT Group has provided timely, courteous and professional service to me for several years. Their flexiblity has been a huge help and their fees are extremely fair and competitive. I will continue to recommend their services to my various business contacts.

We had a very bad experience with A.C.T . Here werewhat happen to us/ Condo - 1- Our tax was submit with an extract 0 in the end . Yes, an unbelievable mistake with an accounting firm. We found out as our bank charged us penalty. We contact the firm, they DIDN'T return us the penalty cost due to their mistake and they didn't apologize but only told us that we will get refund form the government. Just image if your company will short cash flow for no reason. 2- They had sent email to someone who is not one o

I own several businesses in Rogers Park/ Edgewater. I would never use them. They disrespected me. When I brought over some information to do our taxes I was trying to explain to him our issues and he clearly stated to me in our meeting that I need to learn to grow up. Now I am a mature adult and if this individual would have listened instead of making a judgement without understanding the nature of our business he would have understood but the one that needed growing up with the owner. Now I wanted to sup

BEWARE of this firm. Used them for 1 year got tax advice during the second year that was incorrect and costed me tens of thousands of dollars. They said oops sorry, gave me my paperwork back along with a tax filing saying self prepared and deleted me out of there system saying they would not file my taxes. Very unprofessional and thinking of filing a ethics grievance. Thank goodness I found a great new accountant that filed a amended return and got all my money back.

I have used ACT Group for accounting and business advice for 20 years, through all my ups and downs, business-wise. I have found them to be reliable, helpful, accurate, wise, on top of govt regulations, etc., AND fun to do business with.

In short, I have had a tremendous amount of exposure to ACT Group over the last 10 years. This is a TOP firm. The testimonials on the ACT Group's website are very representative of my experience with the firm.

They are experts when it comes to dealing with things like quarterly estimated payments and advising on certain write-offs. With them, all of my worries and concerns regarding filing and paying taxes are long gone. it has always been a pleasure working with them.

I can boldly say I?m relieved and confident that there is one less thing to worry about when it comes to making my businesses work. They worked quickly and were very responsive whenever I had questions. Look forward to using them soon.

They had a calm sense of urgency and deep desire to what was best for me. Looking forward to a long term business with Kevin and his team for years to come.

Reliable and on top of everything, Kevin and his staff answered all my questions promptly and I felt I was in good hands. I highly recommend working with The A.C.T. Group!

Love this firm and will continue to trust my business with them. Never made a mistake once, they are professionals and take care of you no matter what business you run.

Very trustworthy guys. Always kept me informed with my personal filings. They are the best to go with. Highly recommended.

This is by far the best accounting service I?ve ever gotten. They are so helpful and informative that it makes the whole process seamless. Just try using them, you won't be disappointed.

Definitely recommend them highly to anyone looking for any help or advice from knowledgeable and an account.

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.