CPA selection in Tampa starts with defining the work you need. A suitable professional can help you evaluate tax requirements, organize financial records and plan for your business. Results depend on your circumstances and applicable rules. At Henriquez Accounting & Tax Services, discuss your needs and confirm any available coordination with your chosen firm within an agreed scope. See our accounting & bookkeeping, tax preparation & planning, and Outsourced Controller/CFO reporting.
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Our credentials and service scope: Henriquez Accounting & Tax Services provides U.S. tax services through Pedro Henriquez, EA, MBA, CAA. His CPA credential is held in the Dominican Republic; it is not a Florida CPA license. IRS representation is different from a financial statement audit or other CPA assurance service. Discuss the scope of your engagement and verify the appropriate licensing jurisdiction before hiring a provider. See the IRS guide to preparer credentials and Florida license verification.
Meeting Arrangements During CPA Selection
- Better understanding of local rules: Florida and county tax considerations vary—local CPAs are more attuned to the nuances.
- In-person meetings when needed: Some conversations (entity choice, complex audits, exit planning) are best face-to-face.
- Network & connections: Local CPAs often know bankers, attorneys, and business peers in your area.
6 Essential CPA Selection Checks
- Credentials & licensing: Confirm active FL CPA licensure; bonus if tax specialist or EA on staff.
- Relevant experience: Have they handled your industry or complexity (self-employed, real estate, multi-state, cross-border)?
- Range of services: Beyond tax prep—look for advisory, IRS examination representation, bookkeeping oversight, strategy, and planning.
- Communication & accessibility: Responsiveness, clarity, and availability during peak seasons.
- Fees & transparency: Ask for clear, written scopes and itemized pricing.
- Client feedback & reputation: Referrals, reviews, and evidence of long client relationships.
Benefits of Hiring the Right CPA
- Evaluate potentially available deductions and credits under applicable tax rules
- Improve documentation and address tax compliance questions
- Discuss year-round guidance and its frequency when included in the engagement
- Gain clarity from accurate reporting and forecasts with our CFO dashboards
- Build long-term trust and a professional partnership
Coordination After CPA Selection
Ask whether selection assistance, interviews, onboarding, bookkeeping setup or periodic reviews are available and included. Define responsibilities, timing and your authorization for any coordination with a separately retained CPA.
Want help finding the right CPA for you?
Discuss the condition of your records and agree on the bookkeeping or cleanup work needed, required documents and delivery schedule. Coordination with your chosen CPA should have a written scope and your authorization; immediate tax readiness is not guaranteed. Schedule Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch CPAs even if I’ve worked with someone already?
Yes — you absolutely can change your CPA at any time whenever you feel it is necessary or beneficial for your financial situation. It is very important to ensure that all your financial records and documents are fully up to date and accurately organized before making the switch to a new professional. Be sure to request copies of all prior tax returns, financial statements, and any relevant workpapers or supporting documents from your previous accountant to have a complete record.
Additionally, it’s crucial to have a clear and thorough discussion with your new CPA, making sure you both agree upon the full scope of work they will handle, the expected timing of deliverables, and the fees or costs involved before officially completing the handoff process and transitioning your accounts.
Do CPAs only handle taxes?
CPAs may provide tax and advisory services within their expertise and engagement. IRS examination representation is separate from a financial-statement audit or review, which requires an appropriately qualified provider and separate engagement; routine bookkeeping does not provide assurance. Explore bookkeeping oversight.
How do I vet the CPA’s integrity and reliability?
Always make sure to ask for references in order to verify their past work experience and quality, and take the time to read multiple reviews from different sources to gain a well-rounded and comprehensive perspective. Additionally, be sure to confirm that their professional licensure is currently active, valid, and in good standing. Pay close attention to how clearly and thoroughly they explain fees, deadlines, and any complex or technical topics involved in the entire process to avoid misunderstandings later on.
Document your CPA selection decision with the agreed service scope, contact person and information deadlines. Keep copies of prior returns and reports, identify any unresolved items and ask who handles transition questions. A clear handoff helps the new provider understand your records without assuming earlier work is complete.