Client PortalBy Missy (Melissa) Dennis, CPA
When searching for a CPA, many small business owners ask one question first: “How much do you charge?” While pricing matters, it’s rarely the best way to decide. A CPA does more than file taxes — they help you make financial decisions, improve cash flow, and build long-term stability. Choosing the wrong one can cost more in missed opportunities than in fees.
At FJ & Associates, we recommend business owners treat the process like hiring an employee. Ask smart questions, check references, and study reviews. This approach ensures you’ll find more than a service provider — you’ll find a trusted financial partner.
Step 1: Interview Like You’re Hiring an Employee
Think of your CPA as part of your management team. Just like a key hire, you want someone with the right expertise, technology, and communication style.
Questions to ask include:
- What’s your experience with businesses like mine? Different industries face unique challenges — a CPA with relevant experience provides proactive solutions.
- How do you help clients beyond tax season? Look for someone offering year-round planning and advisory, not just once-a-year prep.
- What technology do you use? Modern CPAs use cloud-based tools, AI-enabled platforms, and virtual communication for efficiency and accessibility.
These questions separate tax-only providers from advisory-driven CPAs who can help you grow.
Step 2: Ask for References
References are often overlooked but are critical. A reliable CPA should provide names of clients you can speak with directly.
Ask references:
- How quickly does the CPA respond when you reach out?
- Have they provided proactive advice that saved time or money?
- Do you feel supported as a business owner?
Hearing client stories gives you clarity about the relationship you can expect.
Step 3: Leverage Online Reviews
Reviews provide a wider perspective. Google and Yelp reviews are today’s version of word-of-mouth referrals.
When reviewing, look for:
- Quantity: A CPA with 40+ reviews has proven consistency.
- Quality: Do reviewers mention responsiveness, strategy, and results?
- Consistency: Positive reviews posted over years matter more than a handful posted last week.
Strong online feedback confirms credibility and builds trust.
Why This Approach Works
Choosing based on interviews, references, and reviews ensures you evaluate a CPA from every angle:
- Expertise (Do they know your industry?)
- Service quality (Do they deliver beyond tax prep?)
- Reputation (Do other owners trust them?)
Instead of focusing on cost alone, you’ll find a CPA who saves you time, reduces risk, and helps your business thrive.
- Don’t hire a CPA based on price alone.
- Treat the process like hiring an employee.
- References provide real client insight.
- Reviews confirm reliability and credibility.
- The right CPA becomes a partner in your growth.
Looking for more than a tax preparer? FJ & Associates is a modern, virtual-first CPA firm offering tax, bookkeeping, payroll, and advisory. If you’re searching for a trusted CPA in Kaysville, Utah with dozens of 5-star reviews and proven client results.
Book Your Strategy Session Today →
Missy Dennis is a Partner at FJ & Associates, PLLC, based in Kaysville, Utah. With over twenty years of public accounting experience, Missy specializes in tax preparation, tax advisory, bookkeeping, estate and trust taxation, consulting, and audit services.
She holds a Master of Accounting degree from the University of Utah and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant. Her industry expertise spans low-income housing tax credits, non-profit accounting, and a wide variety of small- to mid-sized businesses.
Missy is dedicated to helping clients navigate complex tax and financial matters with clarity and confidence. She is committed to providing accurate, trustworthy, and actionable guidance so clients can focus on what they do best.
Contact:
FJ & Associates, PLLC
612 North Kay’s Drive, Suite 120
Kaysville, Utah 84037
www.cpaone.net
