*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.*
7 E Mellen St
Hampton, Virginia 23663
My parents have used Merlins team every year for a long time. I tried do my taxes on my own and go figure I messed up. Merlin has been a great help getting everything back in order. I look forward to working with them again in the future. They are just great!
I am a small business owner, filing taxes for my company for the first time this year. Merlin and his team walked me through all of the details; from how to set up a simple bookkeeping system, to how much I can estimate to pay in self-employment taxes this year. I have been dreading the process of filing taxes for months, but Merlin explained everything clearly and professionally, making it a simple process for me. I would highly recommend his services to other business owners.
Again this year, I had a great experience using XpressCPA. They were quick, efficient and thorough. I had multiple W-2's and 1099's and they sorted everything out for me with ease. I am in Chicago and they did everything electronically, without the need of an in-person visit, and walked me through the final forms remotely. I recommend them highly and will be using their services in the future.
I am a new small business owner filing first year tax returns and XpressCPA really made the process simple. With the interactive online feature, was able to get a full breakdown of my return from my home office all while linked to my cpa. I would recommend their services to any business owner in the world. Thanks again
Everyone was so helpful! It was my first time doing taxes on my own and he took me in right away and didn't charge too much since I only had like two papers. I had some trouble with my ex claiming our son and sent in papers for me with all my info and my son being in my care and I got my tax money back within a month. Highly recommended! Will and have been telling everyone about this place.
Merlin and Shay are great, we had an overall great experience and they are such easy going, trustworthy guys. We highly recommend them and the team they have here. They also have the fluffiest, most loving dog here with them, you will love him instantly, his name is Mozart. We will come back, and keep in touch with them, and continue recommending them to all of our friends and family.
I am a small Business Owner and Merlin and his team are the best. He is very reliable, competent and extremely responsive. I have been through four accountants in a five year period. I'm not looking any more...I have finally found a business partner that helps me manage my business. GREAT JOB MERLIN AND TEAM!!!!!
The relationship between a business owner and his CPA never conjures up warm, fuzzy feelings. As the owner of 2 multi-million high end salons in Houston Tx, what I needed was strong organizational skills, someone that could break information down without getting to deep in the details. Merlin and his team gave me his recommendation of where we could make the easiest, quickest changes that would immediately save us money. He taught us how to make and follow an accurate budget. We really spent that first year
I was impressed by Merlin's responsiveness and depth of knowledge. As a first-time home buyer, I was grateful for the time he took to walk me through every scenario and regulation of the ever-complex federal and state tax 'worlds'. I would highly recommend XpressCPA.
Merlin and his team at XpressCPA have always been professional, timely, and accurate. I've been doing business with them for three or four years now and don't plan on changing tax preparers any time soon!
I am a one person business living a limited time in the States and I was totally overwhelmed with my first tax declaration. I did not know when it was due; and when I accidentally came to know the due date in my first year, I just had a couple of days left. XpressCPA helped me immediately and got my papers ready in two days. Since then I let them do it every year because it is easy done via emails and phone; I could ask every question and got fast answers; and they charge me small business friendly.
About 3 years ago I was to get $1 through HR Block and was to pay $500 to file. I walked in Merlin's office and he fixed the same paperwork to get me over $4000 back. Every year since i come back to their office and they keep knocking it out of the park. Great service, great people and they know the right questions to ask. Lifetime customer! Thank you XpressCPA
Xpress CPA made tax time simple. Merlin and his team and fast and very efficient. Being able to do everything online was great. Also, BearCPA, which was used to upload my information was user friendly. I hope to use XpressCPA in the future!
Very professional and competent. The staff is always willing to make time for you and you can feel very assured your being well taken care of. I would highly recommend going to Merlin for his expertise and services. Solid company, thanks Merlin.
XpressCPA is outstanding! They are very patient with you but get the job done! I would highly recommend them and our experience with them as a business owner has been outstanding compared to previous CPA experiences.
With XpressCPA I feel like I got the best of everything, the ease and sophistication of submitting documents remotely and the personal touch of having a dedicated CPA to carry me through the process. Thanks to everyone at XpressCPA, PLLC for making this tax year a great one!
Fastest service, EVER! Sent my infomation Tuesday night, had my return processed and completed by Wednesday afternoon! And money on the way :) Can't beat that. Professional, courteous, secure and easy to send information, and so fast!
With new tax laws and changes with Healthcare, their web-based client interface has made my 2015 tax filing stress free. Thanks again for all you do.
As the owner of a small concrete business, I highly recommend this CPA firm. They are very personable and knowledgeable and have helped me tremendously over the past couple of years.
Working with Merlin is great. He goes over everything and tries hard to make sure I understand what they are doing. Thank you.
kinda pricey but great service and knowledgable staff from receptionist to the CPA's will def be repeat customer. also did entire transaction via their online portal and interface
I have been a client for the past 3 years and will remain a client as a result of the expertise, professionalism and efficiency I've experienced. I can't imagine doing business with anyone else.
Personalized and caring staff. Super fast and affordable...Thanks Merlin & Shay..I have piece of mind that my taxes were done right.
Once we finally get our taxes done and a phone call back I WON'T hesitate to leave MY review!! Stay tuned!!
Merlin is so wonderful and professional. I love working with him.
They take the time to maximize your tax return. Highly recommended!
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.