*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.*
1023 W Lacrosse Ave
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83814
I contacted Total Tax after seeing several positive reviews on-line. My husband has been ill & we had issues with filing and owing back taxes for several years. Total tax was amazing! Steve Fuqua was understanding & replaced my fear and embarrassment with his kindness and extreme knowledge. He and his team walked me through the process of filing both federal & state taxes. They were extremely patient and kind throughout the process. Steve, Lorraine, and Angela made the entire process much easier and not so
When I fired the previous CPA, i hired Total Tax and Angie started working on my tax mess. she was so professional and worked extremely hard on making sure everything is straightened out. i saved thousands in taxes! she is absolutely amazing! highly recommend!
Rated 5 out of 5 stars Professional, tenacious and supportive The Total Tax team walked by my side through a 4.5 yr ordeal with the IRS. They were never demeaning and the outcome is finally a celebration. I could not have represented myself without their guidance and tenacity. Date of experience: September 16, 2024
Total Tax has been a Godsend for me. They assisted me through a long and complicated process and inevitably succeeded in getting me an Offer in Compromise that saved me a considerable amount of money The staff is second to none. Professional, Kind and Considerate and Pleasant. I would highly recommend Total Tax to anyone seeking assistance for their Tax issues.
I have been using Total Tax for years for business and personal tax work and they are, by far, the most experienced and well-connected tax firm in the Pacific Northwest. Other tax firms have taken weeks to semi-resolve tax matters and TotalTax handled the most complex issue -completely- in under 3 days. The "get it done" work ethic at Total Tax is a real blessing.
The Team at Total Tax has been nothing less than professional, extremely knowledgeable, exceedingly patient and most importantly, each and every one of them exhibit genuine care. From the first call I made to Total Tax, these professionals were able to replace my fear and embarrassment to feelings of relief with light at the end of the tunnel...and I mean a bright light! This is the only way I know how to thank them.
I gotta say I was really pessimistic about Total Tax being able to help me with my tax situation. After working with them for over a year, I would say they are a top tier company and really put the effort in to get you a successful resolution. Shout out to Mark at Total Tax. You and the rest of the team over there were a big help. Thank you all!!!!
I reached out to Total Tax, Inc in April 2021 to assist me with a long overdue tax matter. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made. Total Tax Inc. exceeded all my expectations and provided exemplary service from the initial phone call until my case was closed this month. PROS ? The cost of service was both reasonable and affordable. They even offer payment plans if you cannot afford to pay the full amount upfront. ? A team of people were assigned to my case, each handling a certain aspect
I hired Total Tax to handle my IRS back taxes and was totally pleased with the results. Everytime I called the office there was someone there to answer the phone, or setup a call back to address my concerns, unlike some of the other companies I dealt with in the past. If I need anything else as far as Taxes go they will be my first call
I can?t recommend TotalTax enough for their exceptional service in helping me manage my tax liabilities. Over the past two years, they have been instrumental in getting my taxes in order and setting up a manageable payment plan. Thanks to their expertise, I have been able to catch up and pay off about $8,000 in owed state taxes and am now completely in the clear for state taxes. Steve Fuqua, my dedicated rep at TotalTax, has gone above and beyond to assist me, especially when the IRS suspended my payment p
When the smoke cleared Total tax is the winner when it came to solving my tax problems. They took a personal approach to my issues and got the job done. Thank you Steve and the crew I will recommend anyone who needs to have IRS problems too contact Total Tax. If I could use my brother Film studio I would shoot a commercial on my experience with Total Tax.
So this year was the first year I didn?t use turbo tax and I have to admit I had no idea what to expect. Tamar was extremely professional and explained things in a way that made since. The amount I was able to get back was shocking. Way better then I had previously received.any questions I had the total tax team was happy to help with. I will continue to support a great local business that holds themselves to such a high standards.
Mark Walstrom and the Total Tax Team where so helpful through every part of our journey. We are forever grateful for their kindness and professionalism. They are the number one Tax Team. A Team you can depend on to have your back.
Six months ago I was looking to replace my former tax advisor and was fortunate to have been recommended to Mark Walstrom at Total Tax, Inc. I found Mark to be highly knowledgeable, not only with the current issues at hand but being able to offer sound tax advise for my future business and personal obligations. His comprehension of tax law and the ever-changing tax codes is something I?ve come to rely on whenever I have questions. I am grateful for Mark?s continued guidance and trusted expertise, I wouldn?t
I was really worried and crunched for time to resolve my tax issues. A super kind lady from Total Tax was able to resolve them in just 3 days allowing me to meet my deadlines. It was a great pleasure working with them and I would highly recommend them on resolving time sensitive Tax problems.
I had a tax situation I was not aware of and received no answers or support from H & R Block. I had another company quote me thousands of dollars to correct my situation and they seemed sketchy. I was referred by a family member to Total Tax, Inc. and was so happy with the results. Tamar was professional and reassuring that a solution would happen for me and it sure did. Thank you for getting me through such a stressful time and situation.
Total Tax was quick, and responded to my tax issue immediately and professionally from the start. They we're up front and honest about how they would assist me. They kept me appraised of their progress through the whole process. They totally took control of dealing with IRS and all my stress. I am greatly indebted to them for there help.
Denise and Mark are handling my tax issue very professionally. They are keeping me updated very proactively and when I have a question or an issue, they call me back right away. As of this writing, the IRS is answering only 3% of its calls. They have a direct line to the IRS so I don?t know how I could possibly navigate this without them. I am very pleased with the service I receive and I highly recommend them.
I contacted this company today Friday April 30th because unfortunately my younger brothers paycheck had been garnished due to back taxes. As I spoke to a ?consultant ? ( unfortunately I didn?t get his name or I would surly post it) to inquire about retaining their services, the man was cold, callous, condescending, and just down right rude! When I expressed discontent for his behavior and asked to speak with someone else he responded with? no you can?t speak with anyone else. Good luck.? And then hung up in
We were very happy with the service we received with the staff from total tax. They were courteous and very professional in the way they dealt with the issues we were facing. They calmed my wife and I down with there knowledge. I would especially like to thank loraine,she was right there to answer our questions.she treated us very well. Again Thank you
Tamar is wonderful to work with. She is always available when I have questions. She is also thorough, trustworthy and professional. The online platform she uses for uploading documents makes the process seamless and easy.
Tamar has always been so helpful to me and my now my wife! Very quick response times and the receptionists don't just blow you off either like other outfits, when you call the whole staff is on board to help anyway they can.
I reached out to Total Tax, I was connected with Nick. Not only was he knowledgeable and professional, he spoke to my questions in language I could understand. Having tax problems is no fun, but talking to someone who has the answers and is friendly makes it so much better.
It was a long process, but they know what they are doing, and they saved me BIG TIME! I would recommend them to anyone! IF someone in my family is going through IRS problems i sending them this way!
I am very happy with Tamar at Total Tax. She is very knowledgeable, professional and approachable on all tax issues Has been a great resource for my business and personal taxes. I plan on using Total Tax for many years to come.
Total tax worked hard and fast to do my taxes and, I was several years behind . They took it and ran with it got it done . That price was reasonable and affordable , and will work with you on payments. I will recommend to anyone that's behind on taxes . Thank you Tatol Tax team .
Scared to death about the IRS. They changed my tax 1040 and took all my deductions off and added my income and charged me a exuberant tax. Total Tax came in and helped me. Helped me with the IRS. Thank you Total Tax. Mark Walstrom for your help.
Great service. They diligently and consistently worked hard to bring resolution. I found them to be professional and their follow through was excellent!
I owed the irs 70,000, and total tax?s wiped my account out clean they do what they say they was going to do they always answer the phone or they will call you back and try to give you the best way out
I've never worked with a tax company before and the pleasure is all mine. The team has been great to work with!
I gave Total Tax a 5 stars because they're absolutely honest. This value is very hard to find nowadays.
Amazing group of professionals! Saved me time and money! If you need help with IRS problems call them today!
Linton & Lorraine are wonderful!! Even after our case was closed, Lorraine has always answered my questions and taken my calls!!
Amazing company, honest, knowledgeable, and willing to answer any questions. Highly recommend.
This company is very professional and efficient. I would recommend this company to anyone without hesitation. They are awesome!
Good service ?? would recommend to anyone who has tax problems and need professional help.
Tax preparation was completed timely and was a great value. Staff was responsive and friendly
They were very helpful, knowledgeable and efficient. I will definitely be back again.
Great team of professionals!!! Very reliable and efficient. Powerhouse of Tax Accountants
Super impressed! Very professional and timely! I highly recommend them!
Great team, excellent service, would 100% recommend to anyone in need!
Just fantastic, above and beyond communication and thoroughness from beginning to end.
Total Tax has made it extremely easy and worry free to complete our taxes!
They do a great job for a reasonable price.
Knowledgeable, friendly and efficient. Great tax professionals.
Do not use this company they are so rude
A ways Happy with there work ????
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.