*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.*
200 E Randolph St Suite 5100
Chicago, Illinois 60601
Andre and his staff are knowledgeable and provide excellent service. They are quick to respond to all inquiries and offer valuable guidance. I highly recommend using Zagmout & Company CPAs for your financial needs.
I had an incredibly disappointing experience with Andre. After filing my taxes, he completely disappeared and ghosted me. I tried reaching out multiple times regarding some follow-up questions I had, but received no response whatsoever. This lack of communication and responsibility is unacceptable, especially considering the fees I paid for their services. I would strongly advise against using Andre for any financial or tax-related matters. It's clear that once they have your money, they have no interest i
Andre provides a premium service at a very reasonable price. Easy to work with, fast, and very pleasant.
Andre was wonderful! He was able to take me on when my other accounting firm could not do my taxes in time and finished them well before the 4/15 deadline. He also helped me maximize my return after my first owner/occupant home purchase. I will definitely work with him again!
Andre answered all my questions and helped ensure my taxes were done efficiently and correctly. Definitely would recommend him for any tax help!
Zagmout & Company have completed our personal tax returned for several years. Andre is VERY responsive to questions, unique items (like our household employee taxes), and helping us think about tax needs in the year ahead. Timely turn around of returns, mid-year projections, and any questions asked. Highly recommend.
Working with Andre and Zagmout & Company CPAs is a seamless and truly efficient experience. Andre is incredibly knowledgeable and attentive to his clients. We were impressed from the start with his expertise and quick responses to our questions. Highly recommend!
Highly recommend Andre as your accountant! An easy and effective tax preparation we trusted with both our personal and business accounts. Fast replies and readily available to answer questions. Secure online portal that make uploading documents very simple. The easiest process my husband and I have had with taxes, and couldn?t be more appreciative of Andre!
Great experience with Zagmout & Company. First time not doing my taxes myself, Andre made it easy. Very responsive and quick turnaround. It was a relief to have someone else shoulder this burden!
We have been getting our taxes done at Zagmout for years and they always do an excellent job and have great communication. They even helped us to identify when one of our employers was not withholding the appropriate amount of taxes. Can not recommend Andre and his team enough.
I have been using Andre for the past 6 years and he has been great. He is responsive and everything is pretty straightforward in terms of preparation. I would recommend for sure.
Andre and his team are second to none. We've been using this firm for years! He is extremely knowledgable and responsive, making us feel as if we are his only clients, even during the business of tax season. The process we use for taxes leveraging the firm's online portal makes the entire process seamless and simple. We are extremely happy with his service and can't say enough good things!
Andre is very experienced and truly a professional. We have been using Zagmout & Company for years now and its always a breeze. Our questions are always answered in a timely manner. We will continue to use Zagmout & Company for many years a head.
I filed my 2020 taxes through Zagmout & Company CPAs and cannot recommend Andre and his team enough. They are proficient and passionate about what they do, reflected in their commitment and high level of service to you. My experience was seamless with their expertise, efficient and easy filing process, quick correspondence and clear communication. What can be a lengthy and stressful undertaking was lightning fast and smooth. I will recommend them to my family and friends and would absolutely encourage anyon
Zagmout & Company is wonderful! They not only helped with my taxes but provided a very personalized service that empowered me to ask questions and do better financial planning for the future. Excited to say I?ll be a long term client!
Andre is a professional through and through. Proactive, easy to work with, and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend Zagmout & Co CPAs for all your accounting needs.
The best accountant I have ever had!!! HIGHLY recommend!!! Super helpful, respond quickly, knowledgeable, and super efficient! I wish I had found them earlier!
Zagmout CPA?s has been a pleasure to work with. Andre and his team bring tremendous knowledge to help me plan and prepare the nuances of my tax and financial planning needs. Respectful and responsive- I recommend to others!
Andre is excellent. My wife and I have been lucky enough to find him and he is worth every penny we pay. He knows the laws and how to be productive within those boundaries. We also are starting to utilize his financial planning services. We have had decent accountants in the past, but Andre is a game changer.
Worst accounting services. Was very unpleased with their lack of customer service. He refused to meet with me after my taxes were done. He did my taxes and sent them to me without even talking to me or walking me through what was done or why I owed money. He told me I owed the IRS $10k and said I should be honored to owe taxes. I wouldn't recommend this firm if you are a person who want to talk to your accountant and understand how they put your taxes together, if you don't need to understand your taxes or
Andre is professional, thorough and efficient. The electronic signature and secure document repository is both convenient and easy to use. But Andre also takes the time to listen, absorbing the facts to find the best possible strategy. Can?t recommend him enough.
I had a really good experience with Andre and would recommend his services. He kept me updated and prepared my tax return quickly.
Andre is amazing. Always does a great job, pleasure to work with and his website is very easy to navigate
Excellent, friendly and I would recommend to my fellow expats..
Fantastic service, very personal feel and attention, great communication. I enjoyed having everything made available electronic for me to sign documents, review, and complete. Making it in to appointments is not always feasible, because of kids, school, work etc. Pleasure to also support the business of a veteran as well.
Please avoid Andre at all costs. He ghosted me after getting a return correction notice from the state. If you are looking for an accountant that you can actually get ahold of then please look elsewhere.
I used Andre?s company for my business and personal tax and financial planning. Reasonable pricing and white glove service! 5 stars!!!!!
It was pleasure to work with Andre! Great service!
Efficient and detailed, great experience every year.
Great service always available to support.
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.