Find a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

infoWhat is a CPA?

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a state-licensed accounting professional who has passed the Uniform CPA Examination and met their state's education and experience requirements. CPAs are held to strict ethical and continuing-education standards, and are authorized to prepare and sign tax returns, represent taxpayers before the IRS, perform audits, and provide year-round financial and tax planning.

workspace_premiumCPA facts

• Licensed by a state board of accountancy, not just registered: the highest credential in U.S. accounting.
• Must pass all four sections of the rigorous Uniform CPA Exam (historically a ~50% per-section pass rate).
• One of only three credential types (CPA, Enrolled Agent, attorney) with unlimited rights to represent you before the IRS.
• Completes ~40 hours of continuing professional education every year to keep the license active.

helpCPA vs. a regular tax preparer

Any paid preparer can file your return with a PTIN, but a CPA is licensed, regulated, and can represent you in IRS audits, appeals, and collections. If you own a business, are self-employed, have investment or multi-state income, or received an IRS notice, a CPA's expertise usually pays for itself.

paymentsHow much does a CPA cost?

Fees vary with complexity and location. A simple individual return may run a few hundred dollars; business returns, multi-state filings, and planning engagements cost more. Many CPAs offer a free initial consultation, and reviews on this site can help you compare.