One calculator and a readiness check
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Ready to meet an accountant?
Check whether you're actually prepared for a productive first conversation with a CPA, enrolled agent, bookkeeper, or tax preparer.
Assumptions this uses
- Assumes a standard US individual or small-business accounting conversation, not a specialized forensic or litigation engagement
- Documents referenced are prior returns, income statements, and bank records typical of US individual and small-business tax work
- Does not check your actual tax situation or eligibility for any credit or deduction
Limitations: This checklist confirms you're prepared to have a productive conversation — it does not evaluate your tax situation, filing status, or which type of professional is legally required for your case.
Runs entirely in your browser.
Ask for their PTIN or license number before the pitch
Anyone paid to prepare a US federal tax return needs an active Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), and CPAs carry a state license number too. Ask for it in the first email, then look it up yourself before the first call. It takes a few minutes and tells you whether they're currently authorized, and for a CPA, whether their license is in good standing in your state.
Retainer vs. one-time fee
Compare a recurring bookkeeping or accounting retainer against a one-time tax preparation fee to see which costs more over a year.
Assumptions this uses
- Treats any recurring monthly retainer or subscription fee as the 'monthly fee' field
- Treats one-time or annual charges like a tax-season preparation fee as the 'other annual fees' field
- Does not account for differences in what's actually included — a retainer may bundle bookkeeping and tax prep, while a one-time fee usually covers tax prep only
Limitations: This tool compares fee totals only. It does not tell you which service level you actually need, or account for the value of ongoing bookkeeping versus a once-a-year filing.
Runs entirely in your browser.
The Accountant Selection Worksheet
A worksheet and question list for figuring out what kind of accountant you actually need and vetting them before you hire.
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