Choosing a CPA firm can feel like walking into a maze. You know your money, your time, and your peace of mind are on the line. You also know a wrong choice can leave you exposed, confused, or even in trouble with the IRS. This blog gives you three clear questions to ask before you sign any agreement. You will learn how to judge a firm’s experience with your type of work. You will see how to check their communication habits. You will also see how to measure their fees against the help you get. These questions apply whether you run a business or manage family finances. They also apply whether you work with a large agency or a local CPA in Leawood, KS. When you know what to ask, you can choose with calm and protect what you have built.
1. Do you handle tax and money issues like mine every day?
You need a firm that sees your kind of work all year. Not once in a while. A good match lowers mistakes and stress. A poor match can cost you money and sleep.
First, list what you need help with. For example:
- Yearly tax returns for you and your spouse
- Small business or side gig income
- Rental homes
- College costs or child care credits
- Retirement withdrawals and Social Security
Next, ask direct questions:
- How many clients like me do you serve?
- What are the three most common problems you see with clients like me?
- How have tax law changes affected people in my situation this year?
Then, listen for clear, simple answers. A strong CPA firm explains complex rules in plain words. You should walk away feeling calmer, not more confused.
You can also check basic credentials. The IRS keeps a public directory of credentialed tax pros with PTINs at https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf. This helps you confirm that the person you meet is registered and active.
2. How will you stay in touch with me during the year?
Good service is not just about numbers. It is about steady and clear contact. Money questions often come up without warning. You need to know how fast you can get help when that happens.
Ask these three points about contact:
- Who is my main contact person?
- How long do you take to answer emails or calls?
- How do you protect my documents and private details?
Some firms use portals. Some use email. Some rely on in person visits. Any method can work if it is clear, secure, and steady.
You should also ask how they handle urgent issues. For example, what happens if you get a letter from the IRS. The IRS explains what to do when you get a notice or letter at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-irs-notice-or-letter. Your CPA firm should be ready to guide you through that process.
Here is a simple comparison table you can use when you talk with firms. You can fill it in during interviews.
| Contact feature | Firm A | Firm B | Firm C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average response time to email | |||
| Average response time to phone call | |||
| Main contact role (partner, staff, admin) | |||
| Secure portal for documents | Yes / No | Yes / No | Yes / No |
| Regular check ins during the year | Yes / No | Yes / No | Yes / No |
| Help with IRS letters and audits | Yes / No | Yes / No | Yes / No |
Use this table with your spouse or partner. You can compare firms side by side and see which one fits your family pace and comfort level.
3. How do your fees match the value I receive?
Money talk can feel tense. Still, you need clear answers about cost. A firm that hides its fees creates risk for you. You need to know what you pay, when you pay, and what you get for that cost.
Ask three questions about fees:
- Do you charge a flat fee, hourly fee, or a mix of both?
- What is included in that fee and what will cost extra?
- How will you tell me before extra work begins?
Then ask for examples that match your life. For instance:
- A joint tax return with two W-2s and one child
- A small business return with a few employees
- A return with rental homes and stock sales
Here is a simple data table you can use when you compare firms. Fill in real numbers during each meeting.
| Service | Firm A fee | Firm B fee | Firm C fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic personal tax return | |||
| Personal return plus small business | |||
| Year round tax planning check in | |||
| Help with IRS notice or letter | Included / Extra | Included / Extra | Included / Extra |
| Bookkeeping support each month |
Link cost to value. A firm that charges more but keeps you from missing credits, filing late, or making errors can save you more than it costs. A cheap firm that ignores your calls or rushes your return can be very expensive over time.
Pulling it together for your family
When you sit across from a CPA, you are not just buying a tax return. You are choosing a guide for your money story. Your questions should protect your family and your sleep.
Use three steps.
- First, confirm they handle work like yours every day.
- Second, check how they will stay in touch when life changes.
- Third, map their fees to clear services and real value.
Write down answers from each firm. Then talk them over with your spouse, partner, or trusted person. You deserve clear support, simple words, and steady help. When a firm meets these three tests, you can move ahead with more trust and less fear.
