*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.*
844 Massachusetts Ave
Lexington, Massachusetts 02420
I recently had the great pleasure of working with Zhang CPA and I couldn't be more satisfied with their services. From start to finish, the experience was perfect. The team's professionalism and attention to detail stood out. They were thorough in explaining complex financial matters in a way that was easy to understand, making the entire process smooth and stress-free.
Kathy has been our family accountant for couple years now. She is very experienced and gives us very good answers on many of the tax related questions. Her attention to detail really saves us big time in making sure all the reported incomes are correct. She would also make an extra effort to accommodate some of our last minute requests. Her rate is slightly higher than what you would have to pay at your Walmart tax center. However, I do think her quality of services makes the extra we had to pay well justif
I have worked with Kathy for tax return for a few years. She is very professional, responsive and detail oriented. I try to avoid all the hassles of tax return and that?s why I hired a professional to do it. Kathy does exactly what I need, and more. She has a caring attitude for my problems and objectives and becomes advisor for my financial planning. Her highly trained skills and extensive knowledge with solid experience have been a plus to my business. I highly recommend her to anyone with personal/busin
Zhang CPA group has a very deep accounting and tax knowledge especially on EB 5 immigrants. They went through every detail of my facts and help me file every single returns I need to file. Other CPAs I consult with did not even mention some of the forms. Best service and best value.
Zhang CPA Group has been very efficient and effective in resolving my tax issues in very short time. Thank you very much for your great help? I appreciate your help very much. I will definitely come back next year for more of your tax services.
Used once, very disappointed and worst experience ever. Charged you for undo service, and if you ask for an explanation, she will threaten you and say "I will charge you more for the time I spend to talk about it". Big lair, first told us the assistant will do the work, and $75 per hr, but when I asked why held our money, she said "well, I'm $250, and I did the work ", when I asked again, she said "I'm $300 for some of the work" stay away from this Chinese!!!!
I did consultation once but not like Zhang's tone that I do not feel I was respected.
Very happy with their services. They are very patient to explain everything and keep close to us with any updates. Their service pricing are very reasonable to us!
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.