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Overview
What a CPA actually does
A Certified Public Accountant is licensed by a state board of accountancy. CPAs prepare and file tax returns, audit financial statements, represent clients before the IRS, and advise on accounting and business strategy.
- File federal and state tax returns
- Represent you in IRS audits and notices
- Audit and review financial statements
- Advise on entity structure (LLC, S-corp, C-corp)
- Plan year-round tax strategy
- Support loan and investor due diligence
Typical pricing
What this service usually costs
Every CPA in this list offers a free initial call. Ongoing engagements typically run $200–$500/hr or flat fees by service (returns, monthly accounting, advisory).
Estimate ongoing CPA feesRight fit
Who should hire this professional
- Anyone with a complex tax situation
- Small business owners and S-corp shareholders
- Self-employed and 1099 contractors
- Real estate investors
- Anyone with an IRS notice or audit
- Households with stock comp, crypto, or multi-state income
Scope
Services included
Free consultation
30–60 minute call to scope your situation and explain how the CPA can help.
Tax preparation
Federal, state, and business returns filed by a licensed CPA.
Tax planning
Year-round strategy to reduce next year's bill.
IRS representation
Power of attorney to handle notices, audits, and collections.
Business advisory
Entity selection, owner comp, and growth strategy.
Bookkeeping coordination
Many CPAs offer or coordinate with monthly bookkeeping.
Before you hire
Questions to ask any candidate
- 1What's your license number and which state board issued it?
- 2Do you have experience with my industry or situation?
- 3How do you bill — hourly, flat fee, or retainer?
- 4How fast do you respond to client questions?
- 5Do you work with clients in other states?
- 6What's your process for tax planning vs. just filing?
Get ready
Documents to prepare
- Prior-year tax return
- Current year income summary (W-2s, 1099s, K-1s)
- Business financials (if applicable)
- Any IRS or state notices received
- List of major life or business events (sale, marriage, new state)
- Specific questions you want answered on the call
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Learn moreFAQ
Common questions
How do I verify a CPA's license?
Every claimed profile on CPAZenith lists the CPA's license number and issuing state board. You can verify directly with the state board's online lookup — we link to each one.
Do CPAs on the directory really offer free consultations?
Yes. Profiles tagged 'Free consultation' are confirmed by the CPA. Use the filter to see only CPAs currently accepting new clients.
Can I work with a CPA in a different state?
Yes — most CPAs work virtually with clients nationwide. CPAs are licensed by state but can prepare federal returns and most state returns regardless of where you live.
CPA vs. tax preparer — which do I need?
Any PTIN-holder can prepare a return. CPAs are licensed and can represent you before the IRS. For business owners, complex returns, or anyone with prior-year issues, a CPA is usually worth the premium.
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