What is a CPA?

A CPA is much more than its definition of Certified Public Accountant. The term certified refers to the licensing to carry on business as a CPA and meeting the standards as promulgated by the American Institute of CPAs and the various state societies. To be initially licensed, an individual must pass a rigorous examination, which is uniform among the states, and then obtain a certain amount of experience working for a firm which performs examinations of financial statements and renders a report upon them. The term public accountant refers to the role as an accountant, who handles record keeping and reporting matters for the public. However, the term CPA, in sum, means to most people much more than these parts of certified and public accountant. A CPA is a very trusted advisor of both individuals and of businesses.

Why Should I Choose a CPA?

Don’t underestimate the value of the CPA designation. Those three letters are awarded to individuals who have passed a rigorous uniform national examination, fulfilled demanding state licensing requirements and demonstrated their professional competence. And all CPAs must satisfy extensive continuing education requirements to keep their CPA licenses current.
Membership in a professional association is also an important qualification. Members of the Minnesota Society of CPAs and American Institute of Certified Public Accountants are governed by a stringent code of professional ethics. Also, all CPA firms in Minnesota must undergo a comprehensive review of their accounting and auditing practice every three years. So, CPAs are highly trained and qualified professionals who work very hard to maintain their profession’s high standards.

What accounting software do you support?

We support and consult on various different software packages. The most common are QuickBooks, Easy Accounting, and Peachtree. We have experience with many different types of clients on implementing and assisting them in the correction of system errors.

Do you use cloud computing?

We are able to consult on QuickBooks online used by clients. We also have implemented SmartVault. This service allows us to securely share files with our clients through a secure online client portal.

How do you bill for your services?

Corporate and individual tax returns are typically billed at a flat rate after completion of the return. Monthly bookkeeping and payroll services are billed at a fixed fee on a monthly basis. Fee proposals are submitted prior to engagement commencement for audit and review engagements. Special projects are usually billed as time is incurred and at our standard hourly rates. All standard forms of payment are accepted including credit cards.

What hours are you available?

We are available year round during normal business hours, which are 8:00 to 5:00, Monday through Friday. We would be happy to make special arrangements for evening or weekend consultations.

What information should I bring to you for my individual tax return?

Here’s a short list that should cover most situations: All W-2’s, 1099 INT’s, 1099 DIV’s, 1099B’s (if stock sales have occurred), 1099 MISC’s (if self-employed), K-1’s, 1099 SSB for social security benefits, 1098’s for mortgage interest, real estate and personal property tax bills, contribution records, significant medical expenses, unreimbursed employee expenses, investment interest incurred, rental property income & expenses, and farm income & expenses (if applicable).