How do you find a good CPA for a small business in 2025?

Thanks for these suggestions! I hadn't thought about checking with the Chamber of Commerce. Do you think it's better to find someone who specializes specifically in my industry (restaurant) or just a solid small business CPA in general? Also, when you interviewed CPAs, were there any specific red flags that made you immediately cross someone off your list?

Industry specialization can be very valuable for restaurants since there are specific tax deductions and compliance issues unique to food service businesses. A CPA with restaurant experience will know exactly what you can write off and how to properly handle tips, inventory, and other industry-specific concerns. When interviewing, major red flags included CPAs who couldn't clearly explain their fee structure, seemed disorganized about scheduling, or couldn't provide clear answers about how they handle communication during busy periods. I also avoided anyone who seemed to promise unusually large refunds or aggressive deductions without seeing my full financial picture - that's often a sign of someone who might take risks that could trigger audits.

That sounds interesting but also a little sketchy tbh. How does the matching process work? Do they just give you a list of random CPAs or is there some kind of vetting process? I've been burned before by online referral services.

How much does this service cost? The website doesn't seem to have pricing info without signing up. And do they have CPAs experienced with ecommerce businesses specifically?

The matching process is actually pretty thorough! They have an AI system that analyzes your tax situation and business needs, then they only match you with CPAs who have verified credentials and experience in your specific area. They verify licensing and check disciplinary records too, which is how I found out my previous accountant had some issues I wasn't aware of. They definitely have CPAs specialized in ecommerce - that's a huge focus for them actually. From what I understand, they have over 500 CPAs nationwide with various specializations. When I signed up, there wasn't any upfront cost to get matched with potential CPAs. You only pay if you decide to work with someone they recommend, and even then the payment goes directly to the CPA, not the platform.

How does this work exactly? Do they just give you a list of CPAs or do they actually set up the appointments for you? I'm confused about what the service actually does that I couldn't do myself.

Yeah right. So they magically have access to CPAs who are willing to take clients when everyone else is full? Sounds too good to be true. I bet they're just connecting people with inexperienced accountants or firms with high turnover rates that always need clients because they can't keep them.

They actually take care of the whole scheduling process! You tell them what you're looking for, your location, and any specialties you need. Then their system connects with CPA firms in your area that match your criteria and have availability. It's not just a directory - they literally get you confirmed appointment slots with multiple options. I totally get the skepticism - I felt the same way! But what they're doing is accessing firms that might be at capacity for their existing client base but have specifically partnered with this service to strategically add certain types of new clients. The CPAs I met with through Claimyr were all established professionals (15+ years experience) who were being selective about new clients rather than taking everyone who calls. They're looking for the right fit, not just anyone.

That's a smart idea I hadn't considered. I do have a good relationship with my business banker. Did your banker connect you directly or just give you a name to contact? I'm wondering if a warm introduction might help get past the "not taking new clients" barrier.

My banker actually made a direct introduction via email, which definitely helped get me in the door. He specifically mentioned my business challenges and growth plans, which I think made the CPA more interested in working with me. A warm introduction from a mutual contact can absolutely help bypass the "no new clients" response that's so common with established CPAs. CPAs often prioritize clients who come through referrals from trusted sources because it indicates you're likely to be a serious business owner who values professional advice. It's worth asking your banker for that direct introduction rather than just getting a name - makes a world of difference!

I would be super careful with online reviews for CPAs. My friend owns a tax practice and said there are firms that offer discounts in exchange for positive reviews. Plus, a lot of the negative reviews are from people who are mad because the CPA wouldn't do something illegal or aggressive with their taxes!