Estimating Costs

Here’s a rough cost breakdown for common CPA services:

• Individual Tax Preparation: $150-$500 for simple returns, and upwards for complex financial situations.
• Small Business Tax Preparation: $500-$2,500+, depending on business size and complexity.
• Audits: Range dramatically based on company size and audit scope. Smaller businesses might pay a few thousand dollars, while large corporations can pay hundreds of thousands.  For example, a sole proprietorship might pay a few thousand dollars, while a mid-sized company’s audit could cost $10,000 – $50,000.
• Financial Consulting: Highly variable based on the engagement. Hourly rates are typical.

Always ask your CPA for a detailed fee breakdown and written agreement before work begins.

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) offer essential financial expertise for individuals and businesses. Whether it’s tax preparation, auditing, or strategic financial consulting, CPAs help ensure financial health and compliance. But what are the costs associated with hiring a CPA?