*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.*
Upper Left Accounting is a great firm! They are great at walking you through challenging tax situations and answering all your questions. Very reliable and easy to work with!
By far the most reliable and knowledgeable team of accountants I've ever worked with. They go above and beyond! If they don't have an answer to a question, they don't leave you hanging... they figure it out quickly and walk you through anything. I give 10 stars to this team of wonderful people!we have been with them since 2020 and since then they have helped us navigate opening 2 more companies!
Jolene has been incredible to work with! I just recently started my own business and she had been incredible at helping me get started and took over a lot of the licensing to get me started! Any time I have a question she makes herself available, is so helpful and doesn?t make me feel incompetent! I have her doing my book keeping as well and that takes so much stress off myself! Highly recommend!!
Upper Left accounting has made my life so much easier as a general contractor on so many occasions. They are easy to work with, have great attention to detail and daily followup when they're solving problems. They're very communicative and its very easy to get ahold of anyone to ask questions. They'll set you up with a hands-off approach to accounting and take care of whatever you need, but they're also willing to meet with you and train you on anything if you're interested in learning and becoming more sel
Upper Left Accounting is a great team--very responsive and their attention to detail is extremely high. I would recommend this team to any small business for their accounting needs. I am glad to have their support for my business and hope it continues for a very long time.
YOU ALL ROCK! Jolene and her team are amazing! They're patient with my lack of understanding and super good about walking me through the details. Plus they don't just explain it, they training me and help me see the details and make sure to take the time to help me understand. THANK YOU!!!
I own a design build/ firm and for the first time had a employee hurt on the job, I have never been more greatful to have a professional that i can trust to take care of my bussiness and the odds and ends i do not understand (or really want to). Upper Left, had everything in order and made sure i was following protocol. They took care of everything with L&I and made sure my employee was taken care of as well. They went above and beyond.
I am a small general contracting business, just starting out, these girls really know what they are talking about. They have taught me so much so far. I can't wait to learn more and hopefully my business takes off so much that I need their full time services! They are REALLY great at what they do!
Jolene is always available to answer questions about our tax return. She brings good perspective to our business needs.
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.