Choosing a CPA is not just about numbers. It is about trust, safety, and clear guidance when money feels confusing. You deserve someone who listens, explains, and stands beside you when the pressure rises. This is true whether you run a small business, manage rental homes, or file a simple return. A good CPA protects you from painful mistakes, missed refunds, and ugly surprises from the IRS. You do not need to guess your way through this choice. Instead, you can follow a few clear steps to find the right match. These tips work whether you want a local Shreveport tax CPA or support in another city. You will learn how to check credentials, ask sharp questions, and read warning signs. You will also see how to match a CPA’s style with your own needs. That way you feel steady, informed, and in control.
1. Confirm the CPA license and standing
First, make sure you are dealing with a real CPA. “CPA” is a legal title. Each state has a board that issues and monitors licenses. You can confirm a license online in a few minutes.
- Visit your state board of accountancy website
- Search the CPA’s name and license number
- Check status, expiration date, and any discipline
You can start with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy state board list. Then you can click through to your state and run the search. If the name does not show up or the license is inactive, walk away. Money stress is hard enough. You do not need license drama on top of it.
2. Match the CPA to your specific needs
You should not hire a CPA who treats every client the same. Your needs guide your choice. Think about three things.
- Your life stage. Student, worker, parent, retiree
- Your income mix. Wages, self employment, rentals, investments
- Your goals. Lower audit risk, plan for college, grow a business
Each CPA has a focus. Some focus on small businesses. Others focus on high earners or retirees. Ask what type of clients they see most often. Then choose someone who already handles cases like yours.
3. Compare service levels and fees
CPAs use different service models and fee structures. You need clear numbers in writing before you agree. The table below shows common options.
| Service model | What you get | Common fee style | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tax prep only | One time return prep and e file | Flat fee per return or per form | Simple wage earners or first time clients |
| Tax prep plus planning | Return plus year round questions and planning meetings | Flat annual fee or hourly plus return fee | Families, landlords, or self employed workers |
| Business advisory | Books, payroll, tax, and strategy support | Monthly retainer or package pricing | Small business owners and growing side gigs |
| Issue and audit help | IRS letters, back taxes, payment plans | Hourly or project fee | Anyone with tax debt or prior year problems |
Ask three hard questions.
- What is included in this fee
- What costs extra
- How do you bill for calls and emails
If the answers feel foggy, ask for clearer terms. Money likes sunlight. So do you.
4. Check experience with IRS rules and issues
Tax law changes often. You need a CPA who keeps up and who knows how IRS rules work in real life. You can gauge this through simple questions.
- How do you stay current on tax law changes
- Do you have experience with IRS notices or audits
- How often do you amend returns for new clients
You can also review trusted IRS guidance yourself. The IRS “Individuals” page lists current topics, tools, and alerts. A good CPA can walk you through these rules in plain words. If the person hides behind jargon or rushes you, that is a warning sign.
5. Judge communication style and access
Good math does not help if you cannot reach the person who did it. You need a CPA who talks with you in a way that makes sense. Pay attention during your first call.
- Do they listen without cutting you off
- Do they answer in clear short sentences
- Do they check that you understand
Then ask about access.
- Who will you talk to day to day
- How long do replies usually take
- Do they offer video, phone, and secure messages
You should feel calm and respected. You should not feel rushed, small, or confused. Money already carries weight. Your CPA should relieve that weight, not add to it.
6. Look for trust signals and warning signs
Finally, trust your instincts and use outside proof. Look for three trust signals.
- Clear written engagement letter that explains work and fees
- Secure way to share documents and protect your data
- Willingness to say “I do not know yet” and then research
Then watch for three red flags.
- Promises of huge refunds without reviewing your records
- Pressure to sign fast or pay in cash only
- Refusal to give a copy of your full return with all forms
The IRS warns that “too good to be true” tax promises often lead to audits and penalties. You can see examples in IRS news releases about tax scams. You deserve honest help that protects you and your family.
Take your time and choose with care
You do not need to rush this choice. Make a short list. Talk with at least two CPAs. Ask the same questions each time. Then compare notes. When you find someone who is licensed, clear, and steady, you will feel it. Your shoulders drop. Your breathing eases. That is your sign. Choose the CPA who gives you that sense of safety and control.