Find a Startup CPA in Seattle, WA

Seattle startup cpas typically charge $1,200–$6,000 per year for core tax compliance. Basic annual entity tax filing runs $1,200–$3,000/year for early-stage companies. Add R&D credit studies ($1,500–$5,000+ depending on complexity) and multi-state filings as needs grow. Ongoing monthly advisory is typically separate from core tax compliance.

For Washington state filings, your preparer should hold a CPA license from the Washington Board of Accountancy or be an Enrolled Agent. Out-of-state pros can prepare your federal return but should not sign as a CPA on Washington returns. Washington has no state personal or corporate income tax.

A CPA is licensed to file and sign tax returns and represent you before the IRS — core work like entity filings, R&D credits, and multi-state compliance. A startup accountant or bookkeeper typically handles monthly books and investor reporting; many startups use both.

Yes, at minimum for annual entity tax filings and Delaware franchise tax, which are due regardless of revenue. R&D credit eligibility often applies even pre-revenue, which a CPA should evaluate.

It rewards qualifying product-development activity — much of what early engineering teams do. Pre-revenue startups can often apply the credit against payroll tax liability rather than income tax, which a CPA calculates and files.

Having employees, contractors, or significant sales activity in a state can create nexus, obligating you to register and file there — remote-first teams often trigger this without realizing it.

Often yes — many startups use a CPA for tax/entity compliance and a separate fractional CFO for forecasting, fundraising support, and strategy, with the two coordinating directly.