Universal Bookkeeper

Universal Bookkeeper

Reviews Summary

Universal Bookkeeper receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for their expertise, professionalism, and responsiveness. Clients praise their thoroughness, transparency, and ability to simplify complex tax and accounting tasks. Many highlight the team's personalized service, strategic business insights, and use of modern technology. While most commend their fair pricing, one review criticizes rising rates. Customers appreciate their quick turnaround, clear communication, and proactive approach to maximizing deductions and financial health. The consensus is strong trust and satisfaction, with numerous long-term clients and enthusiastic recommendations for both personal and business needs.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Virtual CFO
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Non-profits
Healthcare
Restaurants
QuickBooks
Gusto

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
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Virtual CFO
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Non-profits
Healthcare
Restaurants
QuickBooks
Gusto

Contact Information

Address

14 Genesee St

New Hartford, New York 13413

Hours

Monday 8AM-4PM
Tuesday 8AM-4PM
Wednesday 8AM-4PM
Thursday 8AM-4PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

The standout quality of Universal Bookkeepers is their responsiveness. No matter the inquiry or request, their team is always prompt and thorough in providing answers and solutions. Their ability to deliver accurate financial reports in a timely manner has given us confidence in our financial decision-making. Beyond basic bookkeeping, Universal Bookkeepers actively seeks ways to streamline internal controls and identify cost-saving opportunities. Their proactive approach has helped us improve efficiency, re

Beth and Justin at Universal Bookkeeper are true experts in their field. They (and their team) have deep knowledge of all things accounting and a commitment to stay on top of the latest technology. They genuinely care, not just about their clients' success, but also about their team and their community. Working with them is a great experience and a partnership you can trust.

Universal Bookkeeper does a fantastic job at helping our not-for-profit maintain it's books and records and provide audit support. They are knowledgeable about new accounting pronouncements. They provide support by looking for potential grants. During our quarterly meetings, they really open up discussions about the business and what we ourselves can do to help it grow. I would highly recommend Universal Bookkeeper for all the accounting needs of any organization.

I can not be more happy with my experience at UB. As a business owner, you will be busy, very busy. Having a team at UB to keep an eye on the financial side of your business & tax planning is amazing. Their team is top notch and I suggest you check them out.

Trusted Justin & Beth to get our taxes done. The process was quick & easy. You upload all of your documents to their portal, they review everything and then send you your taxes for review. Everything was done very quickly. Great service & I had an answer for every question I asked quickly. Thank you.

So quick and easy! Absolutely, the best experience ever! Fast and easy process to upload our documents! No hassle and worry free when it comes to our taxes! We love Universal Bookkeeper for making our life easy when it comes to tax season! Highly recommend! You?ll never do your own taxes again!

I had this year?s tax preparation done by Justin at Universal Bookkeeper and I was very pleased by the exceptional service. I liked that I was able to schedule an appointment online and then it was as easy as a quick sit-down with Justin as he performed some data entry. I feel comfortable knowing that my taxes were handled by a professional and I would definitely recommend Universal Bookkeeper to friends and family. 2021 Update: As another client recently stated "another year, another satisfied customer!"

The best accountant there is, no question. Having used others in the past the team at Universal blew me away with their quality and attentiveness. We look forward to continuing working with them for many years to come

The team at Universal Bookkeeper has been professional, timely, and responsive.

We at Complete Consulting Services have been with Universal Bookkeeper since 2018 and have been extremely satisfied with services. Their knowledge is invaluable. They are on top of our business and their attention to detail has been a lifesaver for us. I highly recommend Universal Bookkeeper to any business or individual to take care of their taxes and accounting needs.

I have had the pleasure of working with the team at Universal Bookkeeper for 10+ years now. They continue to do an excellent job not only with our personal taxes but on the business side of things as well. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a great team of Bookkeepers! 6 Stars for U.B.

I use Universal Bookkeeper for both my personal tax returns and to handle my business accounting. They are thorough, transparent and trustworthy. Plus I feel good supporting a local family business. Highly recommend!

Universal bookkeeper is so easy and friendly to use! Chris, has been doing my taxes for years now and has always answered any questions I may have had. He explained everything that he did and asked many questions to make sure I received the full refund. Very professional and easy to work with! Give them a call to get your taxes done the right way the first time!

My husband and I consider ourselves lucky to be clients of Universal Bookkeeper for both our personal and business needs. They are thorough and always available to answer questions quickly and provide guidance. We look forward to working with them for years to come! Thanks to everyone on the UB team!

I was referred to Universal Bookkeeper by a mutual friend, and am I glad I was! With virtually no work on my part, their team was able to maximize my deductions, getting me the largest refund I have ever received! With the fairest prices around, my return was done in less than 48 hours. Do yourself a favor and utilize Justin and his team to take the headache out of tax season. Thanks again guys!

I have used them for many years in the past but their rates have just become way too much. 250 for a simple return is ridiculous. I just got mine completed for half the cost, from a business my friend has been going to for years. I am all for supporting local and small businesses but universal bookkeeper has become a rip off for filing taxes. Please shop around and find another small business that will not charge an arm and leg just to plug numbers on software from 4 pages.

I went to Universal Bookkeeper for tax prep services and I found them to be professional, organized and fairly priced. All in addition to being great listeners and flexible with my personal and small business needs! Would highly recommend to anyone.

We have been using Universal Bookkeeper for several years now. They are wonderful to work with, uploading documents is easy, communication is fast and returns are done quickly. I would hands down, highly recommend using them!

Working with Universal Bookkeeper has been one of the best business decisions I've made in 2017. They are so much more than just your 'accountant'. They truly help you think strategically about the big picture of your small business. Big thanks to Justin, Beth, and team!

U.B. helped take a huge load off my plate. They laid out a plan to handle my daily bookkeeping, payroll and personal taxes. My business clearly runs smoother. I now have free time to work on the business. Their monthly and quarterly reports help evaluate the health of my business from a financial and accounting standpoint. I can't be happier to have chosen them to work with....

Working with Universal Bookkeeper for my personal taxes was a dream. They made in so easy to submit everything digitally, saving time and energy. The process was quick and painless. I would definitely recommend them to anyone.

We have worked with the team at Universal Bookkeeper for multiple years with our taxes. With their knowledge and expertise, we have been able to maximize our refund with no hassle. Thanks to Covid, they have implemented new ways to meet and file without meeting face-to-face. We will continue working with them in the future.

Having the incredible team at UB handling accounting, bookkeeping and tax preparation as a small business owner has been an incredible resource. They've helped to lower my expenses, increase my savings, and grow my business?while offering tremendous peace of mind. I highly recommend UB as not only a reliable resource for your business, but as a partner with your best interest at heart.

This is our second year using Universal Bookkeeper since starting a new business. The team is easy to work, they are extremely knowledgeable. The processes they implemented to work around the Covid issues kept business flowing smoothly and without interuption. We'll continue to use the services of Universal Bookkeeper for years to come.

I have been using Universal Bookkeeper for just under a year now. Partnering with Justin and his team was the best decision I made as a new restaurant operator. UB has all the accounting tools needed to help start a business and successfully operate one. From start-up to scale-up, having UB in your corner will pay you dividends. 5 out of 5!

The Universal Bookkeeper Team is amazing and never disappoints. We have been using them for our taxes for the past few years and are highly satisfied!

My second year having Chris at Universal Bookkeeper do my taxes and a second year of a very positive experience. Chris made the process comfortable and effortless. I highly recommend Universal Bookkeeper.

Universal Bookkeeper is AMAZING - they are so easy to work with - provide the best advice as things change in our lives and always work to find the best result. I would not do tax business with anyone else!

I moved all my business to Universal Bookkeeper. They make things very assessible through the use of modern online technology. Plus , they are just great people! I recommend them all the time. -Chris

We have been with Universal Bookkeeper for 3 years now and rely on them to handle our personal and business tax needs. We couldn't be happier with their services and the team that make up Universal Bookkeeper.

I had a very complicated issue with my taxes that Meagan and Justin hadn't run into before. They both did such a thorough, wonderful job I am so grateful. It made a huge difference in my tax refund and I am very grateful. Thanks again guys.

This is my second year using Universal Bookkeeping for doing my taxes. I couldn?t be happier! They take a stressful process and make it enjoyable. Thank you Justin,Beth and their wonderful staff .

Was a fan of them for years but 250 for a simple tax return is insane. I went to a different professional and they charged 109. Insane prices, not sure why anyone would actually over pay to do simple returns. They might be good for businesses but that?s about it

All of the staff is incredibly helpful and patient. They also listen to your vision and guide you to meet your goals with financial confidence helping you every step along the way.

Justin and his team assisted me when I was selling a house. He gave me excellent advise and also did a fantastic job doing our taxes. Thanks!!

Been working with Universal Bookkeeper for a few years now. They?re the absolute best!

It?s really hard to make taxes fun, but these guys can do it. Highly recommend for their expertise and the customer service!

Helped me get the LLC setup, answered all my questions, when someone asks if I got a guy, Universal Bookkeeper is the answer.

Nothing but good things to say about Universal Bookkeeper. So helpful!

I strongly recommend! Made tax filing a breeze!

Great service and quick turn around!

Very professional with fast response times!

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.

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