Tax & Accounting News
Announcing the Top 50 TaxBuzz Professionals of 2015 (US)
2015 was a big year for TaxBuzz and our participating tax accounting professional members. At the beginning of the year we launched TaxBuzz to help taxpayers and small business owners cut through the clutter to match up with the best tax accounting professionals in their local market. What started out small, now includes over 500,000 professional profiles with thousands of reviews. Traffic has grown exponentially, with over 1 million visitors expected in 2016.
With the introduction of our TaxBuzz Verified Professionals, our goal of showcasing the very best the tax accounting industry has to offer is well on its way. So far in January alone TaxBuzz has signed up another 400 professionals. We are fortunate to be working with so many well reviewed and respected professionals.
So here you go, our Top 50 rated TaxBuzz professionals of 2015.
Based in North Andover, Jim is an Enrolled Agent with over 25+ years of experience in tax preparation and planning. With 85 five star reviews, Jim has earned top billing in this year's list. As verified client Joe Sullivan from Woburn stated, "I have been a client of Jim's for over 20 years I could not find a better person or accountant if I tried."
Bob is the President of Bohemia, NY based Advisory Associates. Bob's firm focuses on tax, and his 35 five star reviews shows how much respect and trust he has developed with his client base. As verified client Norman W mentioned, "they are truly concerned with doing the best job possible and have always gotten back in touch with us in regards to any personal financial or tax matter."
Dr. Spead is a tax expert with vast experience in insolvency and forensic accounting. Dr. Spead has created an amazing following, with clients raving about his work. Bill W from Portsmouth summed it up perfectly. "Integrity, honesty and the most professional you'll ever find anywhere this side of heaven. He's the best!!!"
With over 900 clients in 90 countries, Bret is one of the preeminent Expat tax advisors. As a TaxBuzz Verified Professional, Brett has been vetted by going through a stringent background screening. Brett has attracted 28 five star reviews. Julia P a verified client from Amsterdam added "Brett has expertise not only with expat taxes but also with transition tax advice for those returning home or to another international setting. Highly recommended."
Bart is one of the partners at Ventura based Martin, Ketterling & Associates. Bart works with individuals and small businesses throughout Ventura County. Jodeen F a verified client from Ventura seemed to echo what others have said about Bart and the firm. "Twenty-five years of excellent service! I can email a quick question and have an answer within hours."
Plano Texas tax professional Monique Muhammad has generated quite a following on TaxBuzz. Monique focuses on tax and has clients throughout the U.S. With 22 and growing five star reviews her clients paint a pretty picture. Maria G from Olympia Fields seems to be a fan. "Monique is one of the most reliable, hard-working, dedicated and most professional people that I know."
Long Beach based Spencer Wilson, has been serving clients in greater Los Angeles and Orange County since 2004. Spencer provides clients with tax, accounting and bookkeeping services. Joe G from Fullerton has this to say about Spencer. "Spencer is the best. Always makes time for me, does an outstanding job and makes me feel welcome."
Ralph is a licensed Public Accountant in the state of Delaware. He is known for his exceptional customer services and expertise. Current client Jim R had this to say about Ralph and Saggio Management Group, Inc. "Absolutely the best! We never make a financial move without Ralph's input. He was even a big factor in my retirement planning."
Syosset, New York based Gary Grab, EA is known for some of the most comprehensive reviews on TaxBuzz. His client base is very enthusiastic in their endorsement of Gary and his services. Lizette R sums it up best with the following. "I have recommended him to my friends and colleagues who are also very satisfied customers."
With his office in Federal Way, WA Ahlberg is one of TaxBuzz's best reviewed tax pros. His demeanor and affection from his clients make him a can't miss choice as your tax professional. He works with clients on tax preparation and planning and IRS tax problems. George C summed it up best "The most interactive and caring professional tax services available, bar none!"
Hamilton Ohio based Lisa Foster, CPA is a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor who has been helping Ohio businesses navigate through the challenges on running a small business. Gerry G from Cincinnati shared the following glowing review, "Understands what we are working for in the future and helps us obtain our goals. She takes her time with us and is personal too."
John serves clients in Southern California, Arizona and Nevada. Stephen S shared "John Hornick's service is exceptional." A common word we see throughout his client reviews is responsive. George B added "I used many other CPAs, but they were neither effective or trustworthy. I wholeheartedly recommend John M. Hornick, CPA."
Karen is a rock star. She is running a fast growing accounting firm in the Atlanta area. She is actively bringing on new staff and business clients, with TaxBuzz and her website is one of the primary sources of new leads. Rob G echoed what others had to say about Karen. "I have nothing but superlatives to describe Karen Dresher CPA. She has helped my family numerous times in the last several years and honestly I don't know where we would be without her help. "
Michael is a TaxBuzz Verified Professional who uses his real life experiences to help clients. The word responsive is all over his client reviews. Phill G from Purcellville added "Mike has consistently given us solid tax advice that not only maximized our returns but also supported our retirement planning."
Deborah is another tax professional who seems to have a great relationship with her tax clients. The words friendship and responsive are doted through her 14 five star reviews. Banning based client Joe P shared "Oak Valley Tax has saved us a lot of money and taken the frustration and pain out of the tax season. Deborah has also turned in to a good friend. Fast, painless and affordable."
Paula is a Escondido based CPA who has gained quite a stellar reputation. With 14 five star reviews and growing, Paula has gained the trust of her client base. Verified client Hank G added "best CPA I've ever had. I would recommend Paula to anyone."
As President of Aptos Peak Accounting Services, Jason prefers working with smaller businesses on a more personal level. Leslee L spoke highly of Jason with the following recommendation. "I couldn't rate their service higher. Having known them and used their services for several years, I know they have the utmost integrity."
Jean comes to us from Elizabeth, NJ, where he serves individuals and small business clients. He has attracted quite a following of satisfied clients. Johnry D added the following about Jean. "Good services and really good customer care. The best in town."
Evelyn is our top-rated Miami CPA. Her accounting firm Ivy Accounting, Tax & Advisory, serves clients from two Miami area offices. Evelyn specializes in accounting for Chinese owned businesses. Though, she services a wide range of clients in Dade County. E.J. from South Miami had this to say about his experiences with Evelyn and Ivy Accounting. "Ivy Accounting has been by far the best accounting service I have ever used to do my taxes. I sent my paperwork to Evelyn for her to do my business taxes and she got them done THAT DAY! I strongly recommend her services."
Tim is a partner at La Plata based Murphy & Murphy, CPA, LLC. His practice works with an assortment of individual, businesses and government organizations. He is a TaxBuzz Verified Professional and is active in many CPA societies. Kevin G from Alexandria stated that Tim is "extremely responsive, knowledgeable, and has always given me good advice. Makes any questions I have understandable."
Teszra manages One On One Tax and Financial Group, LLC in Asbury Park, NJ. She hosts networking events and is very active in her community. Teszra has been building up her online reputation by attracting many five star reviews from her clients. Maddie C summed it up best. "Teszra is absolutely the first person you should go see or contact if you've got any questions or issues regarding your credit, taxes, IRS problems, just anything financial."
Robert is a Stoughton MA CPA working with taxpayers and small business owners throughout Massachusetts. He even offers a special "clean-up-projects" for business owners who have fallen behind on their bookkeeping. Dean M a Sewell New Jersey small business owner offered the following endorsement. "Rob Hylen and his team have helped me sleep much sounder at night. When starting my new business, I was full of stress & overwhelming responsibilities. Not only did Rob help reduce my workload and stress levels, but his team took the time to keep me well informed so I could make better decisions as an executive and business owner on a daily basis."
San Diego based Steven Leibold is an Enrolled Agent with a large practice working with taxpayers and small business owners. Steven is our top rated tax professional in San Diego and has been vetted through our TaxBuzz Verified Professional program. His clients love him. San Diego's own Rebecca R. praised Steven with the following five star review. "If you ever have any IRS, tax, or business financial issues - Steve Leibold should be your first choice!"
Robert is a partner at Framingham, MA based Whitney & Gore Financial Services. Karen D a verified client from Framingham MA stated it best. "They truly put the client first and go out of their way to be helpful. Their customer service is rare in this day and age."
Florida client John D. painted a great picture of Pamela and her expertise. "Pam is a "tax strategist." That's why I refer all my friends to her. I've been utilizing Pam's services for three years and my only regret is that I didn't hire her sooner."
Crystal and Integrity Accounting is located in the heart of Southern Maryland. Crystal has been well reviewed. Wesley Y had nothing but great things to say about Crystal. "Awesome accountant! Super attentive, great attention to details. Quick responses, very accommodating!"
Fredericksburg, Virginia based Shalom helps small business owners through Virginia and surrounding areas. Some business clients even refer to her as the "coaches coach". Jean I had this to say about her experience with Shalom. "The return was impeccably accurate, saving me thousands of dollars. I highly recommend that you go see her even if you believe yourself to be the tax expert in your household."
Mark is a New York based Enrolled Agent and Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor. He loves working with start-up businesses and writes monthly blog articles to help start-ups make the best choices. Verified client Laureen J offered this insight about Mark. "I have to admit that I personally do not like accounting but working with Mark makes it much less painful. His sense of humor and genuine caring about my business is what makes him truly stand out in my opinion."
As a former FTB tax auditor, Barry brings unique insight to handling complicated tax problems. He looks at himself as a tax planner first, versus a tax preparer. He tries to minimize liability for every client. Cheryl M summed up her experience with these kind words. "Barry is the best. Years ago we were put through an audit, that if it had not been for Barry, it would have maybe not gone as well. He was there through all the details until the end."
Hunt Valley CPA Bruce Caulk has built up quite a reputation amongst his clients. Verified client A. N. gushed about Bruce with the following five star review. "Bruce and his team are first class in every way. Not only are they knowledgeable about all things tax/finance related but they are wonderful people to work with. I refer them to friends, colleagues and family alike!"
A University of Cincinnati grad, Jason has established a very successful and growing accounting practice. Jason is one of the leading outsourced CFO alternatives for start-ups and growing businesses. Heather H from Cincinnati left this endorsement. "If you are looking for someone who values integrity, ethics, and the well-being of those rich and in need go here."
Tom has built a reputation as a QuickBooks expert. He provides St. Petersburg and Tampa area business owners with training and QuickBooks set-up consulting. Marcia L a verified client spoke of her experiences working with Tom and his National Income Tax & Accounting, Inc. staff. "This entire team is both professional, knowledgeable and so responsive. Have worked with this team for years and appreciate their constant strides in service."
Drew is the managing partner at Peoria based Pinnacle Financial Services. He focuses on tax and retirement planning. Al & Mary G (verified client) From Sun City left this five star review. "Tax Return was done Quickly, Efficiently, Professionally, and MOST of All CORRECTLY...at an Amazing Price to boot!"
Holladay, Utah is home to top-rated Ken Riter, CPA. A University of Utah grad, Ken is well known as the local choice for CPA services. "I like honesty and no nonsense. Getting my taxes done here are a breeze. Fast, accurate and reasonable fees are a giant plus" added Utah resident Karen P.
"Dave has been preparing my taxes for many years, and always contacts me if there are questions or missing information. What I respect most about David as a tax professional is client information remains private." Susan T. (Ocononomowoc WI.)
Lina works with clients throughout Silicon Valley and has become the tax professional of choice in the tech world. She is one of the highest rated tax pros on both TaxBuzz and Yelp. "Lina and her tax team are AMAZING. I ended up re-filing several years of taxes and ended up getting $10k back. Lina and team are organized, professional, fast, and helpful. Thank you!" added verified client Arielle.
Sonu Shukla is one of our top rated CPAs in Orlando Florida. Sonu has developed a system to make sure clients are not overpaying of their taxes. He has also been published on Amazon. "Sonu Shukla has been our go to guy for the last five years and continue to have a great professional relationship with him and his team. He is always fast to respond, dependable and great value for the money. Would recommend him to anyone or any company." added John R (verified client).
Simona manages Tax Unlimited, a Houston based tax professional firm. "My first year with Mrs Taylor and I will continue to be her forever client" added Jerry J from Katy Texas.
Bill brings an extensive corporate background to his work as a CPA. Bill works with Orlando area businesses offering an array of services, including accounting and outsourced CFO services. "We love Bill! He takes away some of the stress of paying taxes and gives us an updated financial snapshot of our business each month. I would recommend Bill to everyone" added Deena A (verified client).
CJ is new to TaxBuzz but closed out 2015 with some stellar reviews. "CJ has been doing the company books for a year and we couldn't be happier! She has been very professional, attentive, educational and proactive. Unlike some CPA's, CJ takes the initiative to understand our operations allowing her to ensure accuracy and provide the best service possible. CJ has proven to be invaluable and we look forward to the future with her. We highly recommend her services" added Morgen D (verified client) from Youngstown OH.
Sharon is known as the tax pro for tax pros. She works on IRS tax problems. "I'm a CPA with a "Main Street" practice in southwest Missouri. I have referred to, and collaborated with, Sharon at IRS Tax Pros for the benefit of several clients. The experiences and the service have been exceptional. I give her my highest recommendation!" added Brent D (verified client) from Springfield MO.
Jeffrey provides tax preparation and planning services. He has attracted some glowing reviews. "Jeffrey did an awesome job of handling my personal and business taxes. I appreciate his open and friendly manner and I look forward to doing business with him again" added D F (verified client) from Phoenix Arizona.
Mari has clients throughout the country, though primarily in Wisconsin and Arizona. Her reviews reflect the diversity of the cold and hot climates. "Excellent 5+ star service, very happy with the level of professionalism and services provided" added Nathan W (not a verified client) from Green Bay WI.
Laredo based Gabriela has a diverse client base of US and Expats. Her problem solving has been represented in her five star reviews. "I highly recommend Gabriela if you are looking for a professional, knowledgeable, and personable CPA" stated Mike G (verified client).
Gordon is our top-rated CPA in Upland. His practice helps taxpayers and small business owners, though he does specialize in HOA tax preparation. An active blogger, Gordon shares his knowledge online and through social media. "My wife and I have been using Gordon's service for over 20 years. We have now moved out of Southern California and will still use his services even if I have to drive 500 miles" stated Martin W (verified client).
Jim is an Enrolled Agent based in the Santa Cruz area of California. He is tax focused and has attracted some awesome five star reviews. "Jim is solid. He helped me out when I was in a tight spot and made the whole process easy to deal with. Knowledgeable and straightforward" added Casey H.
Tera is a TaxBuzz Verified Professional with clients through Virginia. Many of her clients work with her for both business and individual issues. "Tera Kovanes handles both my personal and business taxes. She takes the time to answer my questions and works hard to be accurate and to take advantage of the tax laws where ever possible. Hiring Tera is an investment that pays dividends in the form of lower tax liabilities" stated Mary S (verified client) from Henrico Virginia.
Russ has an established tax practice in Camarillo, California. He has been interviewed by the local newspapers for his expertise and has a robust practice. "Russ has been doing my taxes since 1989 and there is no way I will switch from his professional services. Top notch, professional, expert!" stated Richard H (verified client).
Gary is a Denver area CPA who enjoys helping clients both big and small. "I was looking for a CPA that was knowledgeable, friendly, and easy to work with and Gary was just what I was looking for” added Taylor P (verified client).
Charlotte based Godwin Obimah, works with individuals and small business owners throughout North Carolina. "Godwin is awesome! He has been preparing my taxes for over 14 years. I would recommend his services to anyone” stated Deshay R.
Lee Reams II
CEO
I am a tax and business news junkie who has spent the last 20 years developing and executing "best in class" word-of-mouth marketing campaigns for tax and accounting professionals. With TaxBuzz and CountingWorks we have taken that same commitment to quality content directly to the consumer. Keeping you up-to-date with the latest tax law changes, business growth tips and planning strategies to help you reach your best financial outcome.
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