Hiring a CPA | What to ask a CPA before hiring them?

Do you know? Choosing the right CPA isn’t just about credentials—it’s about securing your family’s legacy. According to 2023 Fidelity Wealth Report, 68% of high-net-worth families who are citing “trust” as their top priority in advisors, their stakes go high.

In this article, I am going to share 4 proven step to find CPAs and Trust & Estate (T&E) attorneys who align with your business goals & also tips to avoid costly mistakes. Let's start with the following:

Why trust matters now?

Tax laws and wealth management strategies are evolving rapidly. For example, the 2023 SECURE Act 2.0 impacts estate planning, making experienced T&E attorneys invaluable. Remote work has also expanded access to top-tier professionals nationwide. But with more options comes decision fatigue.

Let's see how to hire CPA firms by cutting the cost.

CPA firms hiring?

Below are the 4 steps with guideline on how to hire a CPA firm:

Step 1: Leverage Trusted Referrals

Start by tapping your inner circle:

1. Ask peers, financial advisors, or attorneys for CPA/T&E referrals.

My Tips: Attend industry events such as CPA conferences to network with vetted experts.

But don’t stop there! Even glowing referrals need vetting:

• Check Google Reviews, LinkedIn endorsements, and Bar Association records.
• Review their website for client success stories, for example, "how they reduced a client’s estate tax by 40%”.

Step 2: Verify Credentials & Specializations

A license isn’t enough. Dig deeper:

For CPAs:?Confirm active licenses via your state’s?CPA Verify tool.

For Attorneys:?Check state bar membership such as?California State Bar.

Therefore, look for titles like?“multi-generational planning”?or?“complex asset protection. Why? New York based Smith Family avoided a $2M tax liability by hiring a CPA with 15+ years in offshore trust management experience. So, prioritize industry experience matter.

Step 3: Master the Interview Process

Prepare questions that reveal compatibility: As an example, you could ask the following questions:

1. “How do you handle IRS audits for high-net-worth clients?”
2. “Can you explain your fee structure? Is it hourly, retainer, or performance-based?”
3. “What’s your communication style? Will I work directly with you or a junior team?”

How to reject: Vague answers, lack of references, or reluctance to sign a trial agreement.?

Step 4: Start Small & Build Trust

Consider a 3-month trial project, like preparing a tax return or reviewing an estate plan. This “test drive” reveals their responsiveness and attention to detail.

My Tips: Formalize expectations upfront. Use a contract outlining deliverables, fees, and confidentiality terms.

My bonus tips to lower cost by hiring a CPA:

1. Some CPA firms now use AI for tax forecasting, therefore; ask candidates if they leverage tech to boost accuracy.
2. Many CPAs partner with attorneys for bundled services & simplifying coordination. So, check this also.

Concluding Thought

Choosing the right CPA & T&E attorney involves deep analysis. The purpose of my article is to guide you professionally from my experience because I was also an Accountant to save your time & money.

I hope you found this article effective. Do you have any similar experience to share? If have please share it in the comments section so that other fellow can learn from you also. If not then repost or share it with your collogue to spread this information.

Also, Follow & subscribe me on LinkedIn newsletter so that you never miss any updates. If you wish, you can discover more financial advice by visiting my professional site: financeideas.org

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hiring a CPA?

How much does a T&E attorney cost?

Fees range from?300?300?1,000 per hour. Some offer flat rates for estate plans like 5k to 15k.

Can I hire an out-of-state CPA?

Yes, but ensure they’re licensed in your state and understand local tax laws.

What if I’m unhappy with my advisor?

Review your contract’s termination clause. Many require 30 days’ notice.

References & Sources

Below is the lists of sources that I have used to write this article:

1. Check Attorney Discipline: American Bar Association
2. Verify CPA Licenses: AICPA Directory
3. Family Wealth Report on Long-Term Advisor Impact