Do you provide free initial consultations?
Yes.  We can meet in person or talk on the phone to discuss your needs, goals, ways we can partner, and the pricing of our services.
How do you price your services?
CPA firms price their services based either on an hourly rate or at a fixed price agreement.  The fixed price may have a contingency built-in for unforeseen additional work.  Our clients with standard tax returns generally have a fixed price.  Also, our accounting and customized CFO services can be structured with a fixed price.  For services that lend themselves to hourly pricing, such as specialized research and tax planning, we can provide a fee range.
When will you bill me for your services?
For on-going services, we’ll provide you with an invoice at the end of each month.  For individual tax preparation services, we’ll invoice you when we complete your tax return.
What can I do to reduce my fees?
Providing complete and organized information is the best way to keep your fees affordable.  We offer guidance, suggest strategies, and provide yearly tax organizers to help you stay organized and on track.
What is a CPA and do I really need one to prepare my taxes?
A Certified Public Accountant is a person who has met certain educational and experience requirements, as well as passed a rigorous licensing exam.  They are licensed by their state, required to receive ongoing professional education, and bound by ethical standards.   A CPA is well-versed in the intricacies of individual and business tax preparation, and is often the most cost-effective of the various preparer types.  The advantages of building a relationship with a CPA go beyond tax preparation by providing a wide range of services.
Who will actually perform the work?
K. A. Bell, CPA takes a collaborative approach to ensuring that your needs are met. With our team of accountants and administrative support, you can be assured that you’ll receive personalized service that helps you reach your goals. As a CPA and shareholder, Kathy Bell personally oversees all work that is produced by the firm and has an established review process to ensure you are provided with the highest quality of service.
Is my personal data safe?

K. A. Bell, CPA is committed to safeguarding your personal information. We reference AICPA’s recommendations, IRS and state regulations, and consult with information technology experts. The transfer of your information and files is done safely and securely through our electronic client portal.

What is the Client Log-In used for?
The Client Log-In is a user-friendly portal that allows us to safely and securely transfer and receive your information and files.
My old accountant has years of files. What happens to them?
CPA firms have record retention policies to maintain files for a certain number of years.  You can request copies at any time within that time frame.  Since many firms now store most records electronically, transferring your files is less cumbersome.  We’re happy to help you with this.
How does the individual tax preparation process work?

At K. A. Bell, CPA, we strive to make the individual tax preparation process easy and efficient.  If you are a new client, it is best to schedule an in-person meeting.  When the meeting is prior to year-end, we can provide a Tax Organizer in January to help you organize your information for the current year.  When the initial meeting is during tax season, please bring your current year tax information with you.

During your meeting, we’ll discuss your tax situation, answer any questions you have, and take information needed to prepare your returns.  If there are additional questions or missing information, we’ll contact you.  Once we complete your returns, you can choose to receive them by mail, our secure client portal, or in person.  We are happy to schedule an appointment to review the completed returns with you.  Included with your returns will be important instructions you will need to follow.

Most federal and state returns are filed electronically.  We are required by law to obtain a signed authorization form from you prior to doing so.  Additionally, depending on your particular situation, there may be additional steps needed to pay balances due, file local returns, or pay the next year’s estimated taxes.

Do we need to meet in person?
While we do recommend meeting in person during your first year and any time there is something new or unusual with your tax situation, we are able to provide the same level of service without meeting in person each year.
Where are you located?
K. A. Bell, CPA’s main office is located just north of Pittsburgh in Cranberry Township. We also have several additional locations throughout the greater Pittsburgh area for your convenience.
Do you have evening and Saturday appointments?
Yes.  We offer evening and Saturday appointments for your convenience.
Does my CPA need to be local?
No.  With our secure client portal and extensive knowledge of various state laws, K. A. Bell, CPA is able to work with you no matter where you live.  We have many clients in various states.
Are you capable of handling tax filings in other states?
Yes.  We have clients across the United States and are experienced in a wide variety of state filings.
What should I do if I get a tax or audit notice?
Please call us first so we can put your mind at ease.  If it is an audit notice, do not talk to the tax authority without talking to us first.  If there is a section on the notice authorizing us to communicate with the taxing authority, please sign it and provide us with a complete copy of the notice so we can respond to the taxing authority in a way that best serves your needs.
I’m starting a new business. Can you help me?
Yes.  There are many steps to get a business up and running and K. A. Bell, CPA can guide and assist you every step of the way.  As we get to know you, your business, and your personal tax situation, we’ll discuss the type of business structure that will be most advantageous.  From there, we can provide guidance or assistance with additional registrations needed at the Federal, state, and local levels.  We will also offer recommendations on accounting and payroll processing needed for your new business.  Going forward, we’re here to help you have a successful business for many years to come.  Find out more here.
Can you help my business with accounting and business decisions?
Yes.  We have several levels of ongoing accounting and support for businesses ranging from periodic accounting assistance and consulting services to monthly customized CFO services.  Additional information can be found on our Services page.
Do you work with other accounting software in addition to QuickBooks?
Yes.  We’re experienced with many accounting systems.  While QuickBooks has become the most widely used system for small business, we also support Sage Accounting.  However, if your business is using a different system that is working well for you, we’re happy to work with it as well.
I am an Executor of an estate. Can you help me with the process?
Yes.  We’ll partner with you and your attorney to assist with the estate administration process and filing of income tax returns.  Find out more here. 
What is an engagement letter?
Often used by finance, accounting, law, and consulting firms, an engagement letter is a written agreement that outlines the details of a business relationship.  You will receive it directly from us.  Once you sign the engagement letter, it serves as an official contract where we agree to provide you with professional services in exchange for your payment.  We are happy to discuss any specific questions you may have about the engagement letter.

Questions? Contact Us.

Primary Office: 2009 Mackenzie Way, Suite 100 Cranberry Township, PA  16066

Gibsonia Office:  103 Ringneck Court, Gibsonia, PA  15044

Business Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM and By Appointment

Phone: 724.720.9452

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