*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.*
2358 Drew St
Clearwater, Florida 33765
This group is incredible to work with! We worked specifically with David Harper and (Shannon Green a bit as well) throughout almost a year in the collaborative divorce process. They are so competent and knowledgeable. I know for certain we wouldn?t have been able to settle in mediation had David Harper not been there. I felt fully supported and confident with him there as the financial neutral. He has such a calming and reassuring presence which is so needed in such high stress situations like divorce and m
David Harper is an incredible accountant and neutral financial professional for collaborative divorce cases. He has an amazing knack for taking complex issues and concepts and boiling them down in a way that is easy to understand. He is also a calming force in what can be emotionally turbulent discussions. As a collaborative family law attorney, I highly recommend David Harper.
David Harper and his entire team exceeded all expectations in resolving complex financial dealings while navigating the difficulties of divorce. David's professionalism, acute attention to detail and thorough problem solving was extraordinary. Most impactful, is David and his teams ability to provide a caring and empathetic environment while providing the highest level of Forensic Accounting.
I?ve known David professionally as well as personally for many years and if you?re looking for a straight shooter that knows his stuff, he?s your guy. Honesty has always been a top priority in anybody I do business with and that is something David Harper and the rest of the Harper Forensic Consultants team have plenty of. Highly recommended!
Solid leadership at the top with a talented and thorough team. They are the experts in forensic accounting and business valuation who respond quickly with attention to detail. David Harper has built his firm through honest, hard work, earning the highest level of trust with each client.
I just finished working with this firm due to a divorce. It was an extremely stressful time period to say the least. Through it all, Shannon Green was extremely professional and responsive. There is no doubt that this whole process can be extremely expensive. In many instances, Shannon was able to protect my investments and think outside the box for my benefit. She worked with the other forensic CPA in an effort to minimize costs. In a few areas, she saved me money that I could have lost. No one wants to ge
David Harper and his staff were exceptional. Through a stressful time in my life, he was a calming presence as was the staff. I would highly recommend David for any accounting need and the more complicated for you, the more you should consider using David Harper. Highly recommend
David and Shannon did a phenomenal job for me. They are very skilled and professional, and turned out terrific work product. At the same time they were efficient and billed me fairly for the value they added. I highly recommend their services.
We had a great experience working with the awesome team at WestBay. From the first moment, I knew we were in expert and ethical hands, not just with the financial aspect, but also with people who care for the individual. Their team was extremely thorough and always highly responsive, reviewing all the financials.
David Harper's expertise as well as his caring attitude made a difficult situation a little easier to handle. I would recommend him without reservation as a forensic accountant.
I worked with Shannon in an advisory capacity to better understand the financial implications of separation proceedings. I found her to be responsive, thoughtful, and knowledgeable in the execution of her advisory role.
I'm a divorce lawyer and I use David and Shannon every chance I get in my collaborative divorce cases. They are, quite simply, the best at what they do.
I'm very grateful to David Harper and his entire team. They were very knowledgable, helpful and great to work with!
A firm with honesty and integrity. Thanks for your help
Very professional and top notch!
Very good receptionist! ??
Valuation Experts!!!
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.