*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.*
685 Helke Rd
Vandalia, Ohio 45377
Zara is such a professional! She has been doing my family?s taxes for as long as I can remember and has been such a blessing. I would recommend her to anyone who asks! Thank you
Zara has saved me many headaches and saved me money as well. She was very informative and she listens to Dave Ramsey. This is how I found her and I have not been disappointed for the past 3 years. I recommend her 100%.
Zara and her team provide exceptional service! I have been her client for the last 7 years. Throughout the years, Zara has willingly shared her knowledge and expertise to ensure I understand the best way to handle my personal and business tax returns. Zara's advice is top notch!
I would not recommend this office. We turned our taxes into Zara the first week of March. We had to follow up numerous times due to no communication about when the taxes would be completed. Each time we called we heard the same story of the IRS is making so many changes and it is taking time to complete. The last time we called was on May 11, six days before taxes were due. After going around and around with the assistant, we finally received a phone call from Zara who accidentally let it slip she was on
Zara has done our business and personal tax returns for 3 years. There isn't anyone else I'd trust with my finances. She stays up to date on the latest tax rules which translates into more money for us at the end of the year. Hands down the best CPA ever!
We have been dealing with Zara for several years with no problems. She has always been professional. However recently she has hired some rude help. If you call with questions about your return expect a rude response. Our return was very late this year. When my wife called simply to ask about the status of our return and if they needed anything on our end the response she received"was "If you don't like it you can call the IRS. I called to voice my displeasure with the rude employee named Becky and l
I was very disappointed. We used Angie Slonaker's office for filing our taxes, before she retired and Zara took over. Angie made a couple mistakes but gladly fixed the problem once I addressed it to her. I contacted Zara's office twice, spoke with two different people about a mistake (much larger than what Angie made) on our taxes this year for 2017. I also emailed Zara, and have yet to have gotten a response or phone call. We were contacted with a letter at the beginning of February from the state of Ohio
Zara is fantastic to work with. She is very detailed and will make sure you get every deduction possible. Her and her staff are friendly and easy to work with. I highly recommend calling them for any tax or bookkeeping needs!
I worked with Zara on my taxes this evening and she was great! She is very knowledgeable, pleasant, and professional. I look forward to working with her again.
Zara is an excellent person to work with. She is kind, pleasant, and very skilled at what she does. We know we're in good hands with her preparing our taxes!!
This is one of those "I wish I could give no stars" scenarios. We dropped our taxes off the first of March, NO word was mentioned of her being behind or not having the time to get them done. In early April we got worried when we still hadn't heard anything and gave them a call. After being treated rather rudely by the receptionist we were assured that they would be done within the week. Fast forward 2 more weeks and many more phone calls we still had not had our taxes filed. Every time we called we were to
Used for 2 years for tax returns (business and personal). Returns were done wrong. Just now I got around to fixing it. She is very nice but I would go elsewhere for tax returns, not her forte.
Great service and accurate returns. Highly recommend!
She did the taxes for my ex husband and myself and then when I never received the return and was told by the irs to contact the person that prepared it, she quit responding to my emails. It?s been a year and I still have never received a return.
Zara provided the best tax service we've ever had we will definitely use her services from now on.
Last year was the first year for me to use Zara, and I will never go anywhere else. I feel so blessed to have such a knowledgeable cpa in my corner!
Zara is knowledgeable and professional. She knows her stuff. Highly recommended!
She sorted and prepared a several year tax mess I had very well. I highly recommend and consider the service flawless.
Zara is the most knowledgeable, smart and thorough CPA we have ever dealt with.
Zara is so good at what she does and I would recommend her to anyone!
Absolute trustworthy. Impeccable attention to detail with client focused care
Was quick easy and very helpful !! Highly recommend!! She took the stress out of doing taxes !!
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.