What to Expect During Your First Consultation with a Denver CPA
Starting a relationship with a new accounting firm can feel a bit like a first date—you’re both trying to see if you’re a good match for a long-term partnership. Whether you’re a startup founder or a seasoned business owner, the first consultation is the most important step in taking control of your financial future. At Thomas J McAlister, P.C., we know that the best results come from trust and transparency, so we want to pull back the curtain on exactly what happens during that initial meeting. If you’ve been searching for a Certified Public Accountant in Denver, here is your guide to making the most of your first 30 minutes.
1. Sharing Your Financial Story: The "Discovery" Phase
The main goal of your first consultation is for us to understand your "vitals." Every business has a unique narrative, and your numbers tell that story. Your accountant will likely ask about:
Your Business Structure: Are you an LLC, an S-Corp, or a sole proprietorship?
Your Revenue and Expenses: What are your main sources of income, and what are your biggest monthly costs?
Your Current Systems: Do you use QuickBooks, Xero, or a shoebox full of receipts? (Don't worry, we've seen it all!)
Pro Tip: To make the meeting most productive, have your latest tax return or a recent profit-and-loss statement handy. It helps your Denver CPA see exactly where you stand from minute one.
2. Setting Your Goals: What Does Success Look Like?
We don't just want to file your paperwork; we want to help you grow. During the first consultation, we’ll dig into your short-term and long-term objectives.
Growth Plans: Are you looking to hire employees, open a second location, or prepare for a future sale?
Tax Savings: Are you primarily looking to lower your tax bill (legally!) or just stay compliant with the IRS?
Cash Flow: Do you struggle with having enough cash on hand to pay bills even when sales are high?
By identifying these goals early, we can tailor our business accounting services to fit your specific needs rather than giving you a one-size-fits-all solution.
3. Defining the Scope: How Can We Help You?
Not every business needs a full-time CFO, but every business needs something. During this chat, we’ll discuss which services make sense for your current stage:
Tax Preparation: Ensuring your annual filings are perfect and on time.
Bookkeeping & Payroll: Taking the daily administrative burden off your plate.
Advisory & Strategy: Looking at trends to help you make smarter financial decisions throughout the year.
We’ll be transparent about our fee structure and how we communicate, so there are never any surprises down the road.
4. Your Turn to Interview Us: Questions to Ask
The first consultation is a two-way street. You should leave the meeting feeling confident that you’ve found the right partner. Don't be afraid to ask:
"How often will we communicate—monthly, quarterly, or just at tax time?"
"What industry-specific tax credits should I be aware of in Colorado?"
"Who will be my main point of contact at the firm?"
"How do you handle IRS audits or tax litigation support?"
Conclusion: The Foundation of a Great Partnership
Your first consultation shouldn't be stressful—it should be empowering. It’s the moment you stop guessing about your finances and start getting expert guidance. At Thomas J McAlister, P.C., we pride ourselves on being approachable, professional, and deeply invested in the success of the Denver business community.
Ready to get started?
Book your free, no-obligation 30-minute consultation call with us today! Let’s sit down (virtually or in person) and see how we can save you time, reduce your stress, and keep more money in your business.
