Find a accountant in Chicago, IL

Find accountants in Chicago, IL

Find accountants in Chicago, IL

Share a few details and we'll show you the best accountants in your area.
Zip code

Find accountants in Chicago, IL

Share a few details and we'll show you the best accountants in your area.
Zip code

Top 10 accountants in Chicago, IL

Clients agree: these Chicago accountants are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
IITS TAX SERVICE LLC

IITS TAX SERVICE LLC

5.0(2)
Offers online services
15+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Derek C. says, "I was very pleased with the customer service she's so polite and walk me through everything and put everything in her words to make me understand the situations what was going on five stars we'll see you again next year" Read more
Kenneth P. Rapoport CPA, Ltd.

Kenneth P. Rapoport CPA, Ltd.

5.0Exceptional(11)
Top Pro
Offers online services
7 hires on Thervo
33+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Susan I. says, "Years ago, Ken helped me with some difficulties with the IRS. He patiently worked his way through the issue and was able to reduce the amount owed and have the penalty waived. And Ken’s charge was very reasonable. Since then, my partner and I have over the last 8 years engaged Ken’s services for our annual taxes. Because of Ken’s extensive tax expertise, we always get a refund much larger than if we had used TurboTax, even allowing for his fee. Ken is also personable, attentive, and most importantly, honest. I highly recommend Ken!" Read more
Ramirez Tax Service

Ramirez Tax Service

5.0(1)
Offers online services
44+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Marco M. says, "good service." Read more
Lanre's Tax Services

Lanre's Tax Services

New on Thervo
Offers online services
1 hire on Thervo
20+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Lanre's Tax Services is a private company and offers Tax Return Preparation, accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, and financial services to individuals and to small and medium size company at a reasonable rate. I enjoy do accounting work from payroll to bookkeeping to tax preparation by providing a stress-free work environment for my clients
Provisions Tax Service

Provisions Tax Service

New on Thervo
Offers online services
Serves Chicago, IL
I’ve been a tax professional for over 20 years. I pride myself in making your money matter. I’m honest and do a thorough job when preparing my clients tax returns.
Monarch Chicago, Inc

Monarch Chicago, Inc

New on Thervo
Offers online services
3+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
I am a minority-owned business with extensive experience in accounting across various roles. I aim to expand my mission to help organizations achieve stability and operational success.

Your Accounting questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thervo.

What do accountants do?

Accountants help manage finances for businesses and individuals. Common services include:

  • Day-to-day bookkeeping: Recording income/expenses, processing payroll, managing accounts payable/receivable
  • Reporting: Preparing financial statements, cash flow reports, profit/loss statements
  • Taxes: Tax planning and preparation, filing returns, resolving audits
  • Auditing: Reviewing financial records to verify accuracy and compliance
  • Advising: Budgeting, reducing costs, improving profits, managing cash flow
  • Compliance: Ensuring legal/regulatory standards are met, documenting processes
  • Systems: Implementing accounting software/controls appropriate for the organization

How much do accountants charge?

Accountant fees vary widely based on several factors:

  • Location: Accountants in major metropolitan areas tend to charge higher rates, averaging $150 to $400 per hour. In smaller towns, rates may range from $100 to 250 per hour.
  • Experience level: Newly certified or junior accountants typically charge $50 to $150 per hour. Senior accountants with 5 to 10 years of experience charge $200 to $500 per hour on average.
  • Firm size: Solo practitioners and small local firms often have lower rates compared to larger regional or national firms.
  • Specializations: Accountants with niche expertise like forensic accounting or international taxes command higher rates.
  • Services: Commonly outsourced services like payroll, bookkeeping, and tax prep tend to cost less per hour than consultative services like auditing and financial planning.

Expect to pay $150 to $1,800+ for tax prep, $2,000 to $25,000+ for auditing, and $200 to $1,000 per month for bookkeeping, depending on your business size and needs. Request free consultations and compare detailed estimates before hiring.

How is an accountant different from a bookkeeper?

Bookkeepers handle daily transactions like recording expenses or issuing invoices. Accountants take the data bookkeepers compile and use it for high-level tasks like preparing financial statements, guiding business strategy, and filing taxes.

Most small businesses need both bookkeeping and higher-level accounting. A single accountant can provide both services, or you can hire a separate bookkeeper. If hiring both, ensure they communicate and regularly share data.

When should you hire an accountant?

Consider hiring an accountant if:

  • You need help selecting accounting systems and software for your business.
  • You need help with complex finances like managing investments, real estate, or international transactions.
  • Don't have the time or the training to do daily bookkeeping and accounting tasks yourself.
  • You need tax expertise to help maximize your return and prevent tax errors or penalties.
  • You're looking to identify cost reductions and growth opportunities.
  • You're preparing for an audit or sale and need to verify accurate financial statements.
  • You notice errors in your current system and need an expert to review processes and improve internal controls.

How do I choose an accountant near me?

The right accountant-client relationship can provide tremendous value to your business. Take the time to research options thoroughly before deciding who to hire. When researching accountants near you:

  • Ask for referrals from business owners in your industry.
  • Review credentials like CPA licensing, education, specializations.
  • Ask them for a free consultation and meet with them to discuss your needs.
  • Compare detailed estimates from at least 3 potential accountants.
  • Ask for client references and read client reviews on Lawful and Google.
  • Clearly communicate your expectations and budget.
  • Look for an accountant who communicates clearly and answers your questions in understandable terms.
  • Prioritize trust and rapport, as your accountant handles sensitive financial data.
  • Consider both large established CPA firms and smaller local professionals.

What questions should I ask when getting estimates from CPA firms or accountants?

Asking the below questions and choose an accountant who answers you promptly and clearly.

  • How long have you been an accountant?
  • What financial certifications do you have?
  • Do you specialize in a specific industry or area?
  • Can I have a free consultation? 
  • What accounting services do you offer?
  • How to you calculate and bill for your services?

Reviews for Chicago accountants

Recent success stories from people in the Chicago area.
Alesha B.
Very professional easy to work with. Willing to explain everything. Very reliable dependable and trustworthy have been preparing my taxes for the last decade never been disappointed.
IITS TAX SERVICE LLC
Heather I.
Thank you very much for helping me with my taxes last year. I have not used an accountant before, and I must thank you for being so thorough, organized, and resourceful. I didn’t know what to expect, but was very pleasantly surprised. You are obviously very good at what you do! Also I appreciate your help amending last year’s return to maximize my refund. It helped make a big difference! 🙂 All the best to you!
Kenneth P. Rapoport CPA, Ltd.
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