How to find a CPA that isn't a waste of time?

Question

Boy, I'm having one heck of a time finding a CPA that doesn't have his or her head in the clouds. I've got a couple of properties in Chicago IL requiring some tax services but you think I was trying to find the formula for grand unified field theory! Any ideas on how to find a CPA that isn't a total waste of time would be appreciated.

Thanks a lot!

Michael Plaks · Answer

@Patrick Britton

Just go straight for the jugular and ask him directly: ARE you a waste of time? Works every time.

John Warren · Answer

@Patrick Britton what is the main issue you are running into? Is it sticker shock due to pricing? Lack of service? Lack of advice?

I went through the process of hiring a CPA firm a few years back, and I really learned that you have two sides of the business. Compliance is the part that all quality firms should get right (filing taxes on time and correctly, etc). Strategy is where it gets tricky. I started needing quarterly strategy sessions and not all CPA firms are set up to give tax strategy advice to investors.

Grigory Pekarsky · Answer

The right CPA can be the key to your success. Finding one, however, is challenging. There are so many options out there that you might not know where to start. In order to find a CPA that's worth your time and money:

-Look at their LinkedIn page and see if they have any certifications or achievements in accounting or taxes.

-Check with other clients about what they think of the CPA's work.

-Talk to them about their experience working with this particular company and ask them what sets it apart from others in the industry.

-Figure out if they have an expertise in something specific like bookkeeping, taxes, or accounting procedures and then look into those areas more closely.

-Be sure to ask them how they will be able to help you and what makes them different from other CPAs. This is a good way of finding out which one will best suit your needs. It's also important to see if their background matches up with the type of company that you have. There are many ways this question can be answered, but make sure you get some advice on choosing an accountant for your business.

Some questions you might consider asking are:
How did you become interested in accounting?
How does your experience match with my business needs?
What do you think distinguishes our CPA firm from others like it?
What particular industry experience would benefit me?
Which industries or companies do you regularly work with?

Daniel Hyman · Answer

John is right. Most firms can handle the compliance, but few are able to provide tax strategies at a price point that makes sense.

Doug Spence · Answer

Linda Weygant is fantastic but I don't think she is taking on new clients now. She was a podcast guest on number 244.

Seidy Lasker · Answer

@Patrick Britton

Schedule a call with Ashish if hes interested in taking you on. Best real estate CPA on here.

How to find a CPA that isn't a waste of time?

How to find a CPA that isn't a waste of time?

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