*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.*
350 Motor Pkwy Suite 300
Hauppauge, New York 11788
We began working with Gerry in 2014, while my wife and I were both still working and just starting to think seriously about retirement. From our very first meeting, we felt completely at ease ? Gerry quickly understood not only our shared goals but also the differences in our individual perspectives. He worked closely with us to develop a financial plan that thoughtfully balanced our objectives with our respective risk tolerances, ultimately enabling us to retire in 2016. With his guidance and support, we?v
My wife and I began working with Gerry in late 2014 prior to both if us entering retirement. Having spent over 35 years in the financial services industry I knew it was important to have independent fiduciary investment and tax advice. We researched and interviewed more than a few advisors and following our initial meeting with Gerry we both knew he would be a great fit for us. Among the reasons we decided to have Gerry manage our assets is his overall approach to working with clients. He is patient, listen
Trustworthy, responsive, insightful advisor I can't imagine my husband and I making our way through our retirement years without Gerry Barrasso guiding us financially. Gerry is down to earth, available, reassuring, talented, and professional. His knowledge of finance and accounting are invaluable in these later years. We have received great results and great care in planning for our future. Gerry's staff including Diana David are equally top notch. Great results and great comfort all the way.
Our previous money manager had too many high risk items in our portfolio. We had met with them and asked to be more conservative since we were retiring. But it fell on deaf ears. After our initial interview with Gerry, we saw how our investments could to be more secure and more smartly invested and develop a complete plan on how much we can take annually without touching our principle. Definitely something we felt had to be done sooner, rather than later. Since we started working with Gerry a little over tw
My brother was shopping for a financial planner and asked me who I was using and if I was happy with him, I told him and set up a meeting so they could discuss his finances. A few weeks later I asked my brother how the meeting went and he said he had decided on a financial planner and he wasn?t my guy. My brother does very meticulous research on every project he works on, so I asked him why he chose Gerry over my adviser. The list was long and impressive but it hinged on Gerry being a ?for fee? adviser whic
I have been a client of Gerry for over 7 years. I had never felt I needed a financial planner but due to personal situations I reached out to him. He has been of invaluable help for me and my family in difficult times and has been very accessible in a very timely manner. Gerry and his staff, especially Patti Watkins have helped me out when I needed them the most. They were very professional, warm and kind. I would highly recommend their services to anyone in need. I feel very comfortable in having them as a
My husband and I have been with Gerry for many years. He has always been available to us and answered any questions we may have. We do not make any financial decisions without conferring with him first. We have full confidence in the professional and knowledgeable way in which our accounts are handled , especially now that we are heading into retirement. He has a very good team and they are also very helpful, especially during tax time.
I came to Gerry Barrasso after being with another financial group that was unprofessional. I had difficulty receiving a straight answer. I tried many times to contact my advisor, with that company, for guidance and information about my account. I was fortunate to locate Gerry through an extensive search of fiduciaries. My initial contact by phone with Gerry had me completely at ease. I Knew right then that Gerry was trustworthy and extremely knowledgeable regarding my investments. We met at his office and h
There's something to be said for feeling comfortable when it comes to finance??? Many of us, myself included, feel lost or even ignorant when it comes to investing. If you're one of those people, Gerry Barrasso is the person to call. He's extremely knowledgeable and has an ability to explain things, using terms you will be able to grasp. He also takes the time to fully understand your goals. His staff is diligent and extremely helpful. I recommend him and United highly
Gerry Barrasso has been the financial advisor for me and my wife since 2015. I realized that I needed an advisor to help me plan the final years of my employment and during my retirement and felt that a fee-only advisor was the most appropriate for my needs. He carefully evaluated my risk tolerance in setting up my initial portfolio. He runs long-range financial planning software that takes into account retirement-specific items, such as social security and medical expenses. He prepares my taxes and makes s
For nearly a decade, Gerry from United Financial Planning Group, has been my guide through retirement and beyond. In today's turbulent financial climate his professional expertise helps me continue to focus on longterm goals while avoiding possible risk. Just knowing he is a phone call away help calm emotional impulses in difficult markets. Having such a trustworthy advisor in my corner has always been vital but especially now, facing such uncertain times, gives me more confidence to face the future. Sheila
Highly recommend this firm. Petr was extremely knowledgeable and comprehensive. Gerry and Petr took the time to understand my situation and not only prepare my taxes but prepare me for the following year when my job situation was changing.
Gerry Barrasso has been a consistent source of help to me. He is supportive and explains everything I need to know about my financial planning. I recommend him without qualification. Theresa Aiello, Phd
I relish the opportunity to tell the world how pleased my wife, Christine, and I, are with Gerry Barraso & United Financial Planning Group advising us financially. I'll give you the reader's digest version. We are a blue-collar couple. Chris is a nurse working in a pediatrician's office. I'm a licensed master plumber in a mom Pop business since 1974. Between weddings & college tuitions for our 3 children we always tried to save. Unfortunately, we were all over the place in assorted mutual funds, whole life
If you're looking to get your finances together, create a retirement plan, or get your taxes done swiftly and smoothly, look no further than United Financial Planning Group LLC. We've been with them for nearly a decade, and their calm efficiency, friendly approach, and excellent advice have put our family finances on even keel.
Always an immediate and thoughtful response to any question
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.