Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)?
A: A CPA may specialize in tax, but not necessarily. There's a wide range of CPA services including accounting, auditing, financial planning, technology consulting and business valuation. Each year when I renew my CPA license, I have to attest that I haven’t done anything that would disgrace the CPA designation.
All CPAs are accountants, but not all accountants are CPAs
A certified public accountant (CPA) is certified by the state to act as a public accountant.
To qualify as a CPA, candidates must:
1. Have a Bachelor Degree in Accounting
2. Have enough college hours to have a Masters Degree, which the majority of CPA’s do have.
3. Apprentice under a currently licensed CPA for 1 year.
4. Pass an exam. (The most difficult 4 part exam I’ve ever taken – worse than the SAT. I studied for months and was thrilled when I passed.)
5. Complete 40 Continuing Education Credit hours each year, including Ethics.
Q: I'm in a different state. How can you help me?
A: My clients, both businesses and individuals, are spread across the US. In fact, more than 80% I've never met face to face. With secure e-communications, the days of walking in to an office with paper in hand are long over.
Q: What happens if I'm audited?
A: Your first call is to me. Do NOT reply to an inquiry from the IRS or your state taxing authorities without contacting a CPA first. I'll review the request you received, advise you of next steps, and develop a game plan if you need assistance. You will only be charged if we agree I am to represent you.
Q: What are your fees?
A: These vary. Due to the wide variety of services I offer and the range of complexity in every situation, it is very difficult to provide a comprehensive list. I NEVER send a bill that is a surprise to a client. Service fees are listed upfront on every contract and are rarely billed per hour. I prefer to get a thorough understanding of your needs, provide you a detail of the service I am to provide, and quote a lump sum fee.