We've meticulously evaluated over 800 service providers to select the top 10 accounting firms, focusing on their expertise, key services, successful projects, client testimonials, pricing structures, and industry accolades. Examine their specialties and featured case studies to make an informed decision in finding a suitable partner.
Table of Contents
The Number 1 Accounting Firm as Selected by DesignRush Is...
1. Marcum
- Best for: Overall
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 1951
- Size: 1000 & Up
- Location: New York CIty, NY
- Notable clients: Climate and Clean Energy Equity Fund
Marcum provides end-to-end accounting, traditional tax, and assurance services, complemented with financial, risk, and transaction advisory services. Its extended offering comprises mergers and acquisition planning, family office services, forensic accounting, business valuation, and litigation support. Marcum caters to privately held and publicly traded companies, high-net-worth individuals, private equity, and hedge funds, helping them bridge financial management gaps.
Marcum Success Story
- Challenge: A nonprofit company had been working with the same outsourced accounting firm since the mid-90s, which also managed its accounting system. Upon conducting an external audit, the client identified a material weakness in its internal controls, rendering them concerned about the incumbent firm's work.
- Solution: Marcum aimed to restore confidence in the organization's accounting and finance functions by introducing new workflows and accounting systems. It implemented a new Sage Intacct accounting system, moved accounts payable processing to a web-based system, and helped integrate Fluxx grant management and HubSpot CRM software.
- Results: Having improved workflows and internal controls established, the client received clean reports from its audit. Marcum continued serving as the nonprofit's trusted advisor for additional projects, helping them evaluate alternative revenue streams and selecting and implementing new budgeting software.
2. TGG Accounting
- Best for: Accounting system implementation
- Average hourly rate: $50
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2006
- Size: 100-249
- Location: San Antonio, TX
- Notable clients: Flying A Media, PRO Compression, BirdRock Systems, MJBiz, Tourmaline Enterprises
TGG Accounting specializes in outsourced accounting services. It provides a full-scale accounting department for small businesses, covering staff accountants, accounting managers, and controllers. As part of the service, it handles day-to-day transactions, financial reporting, payroll, and other critical accounting services. Other notable company specialties include finance consulting, cash flow forecasting, exit planning, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and more.
TGG Accounting Success Story
- Challenge: Advertising company Flying A Media sought TGG Accounting’s assistance in improving its internal accounting systems. The company lacked the expertise and structured processes needed for consistent and accurate financial management, limiting its ability to scale effectively.
- Solution: TGG Accounting stepped in to accommodate the client’s request by implementing a comprehensive accounting manual, introducing new systems, and providing staff training. Beyond system adaptations, the agency aimed to instill confidence within Flying A Media's team to handle much of the accounting work themselves.
- Results: The partnership with TGG Accounting brought transformational results for Flying A Media; it successfully navigated complex asset purchases, streamlined its financial systems, and gained a clearer view of its financial operations. Additionally, it established important key performance indicators and benchmarks, which enabled the client to manage the business more effectively and prepare for future growth stages.
Check TGG Accounting Agency Profile
3. Smith Schafer
- Best for: Financial due diligence
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 1971
- Size: 100-249
- Location: Rochester, MN
- Notable clients: Reimagine Southwest, Baser Freight, D&R Star, Washburn McReavy Funeral Chapels, Fusion Logistics
Smith Schafer is an accounting firm helping businesses realize growth via accounting, tax, and consulting solutions. Offering comprehensive accounting services, including CFO services, monthly bookkeeping, monthly and quarterly bank reconciliations, payroll support, and financial reporting, the company aims to introduce flows and finance management practices that support strategic decisions. Smith Schafer boasts an 86% net promoter score (NPS) and a 96.4% satisfaction rating, affirming its dedication to clients’ requests.
Smith Schafer Success Story
- Challenge: A client who recently acquired a subsidiary tasked Smith Shafer with assessing the new personnel, processes, and ERP systems to ensure seamless integration and efficiency.
- Solution: Smith Schafer approached the task by engaging with both management parties and corporate executives to understand their goals and concerns. It interviewed the finance staff and reviewed accounting procedures and ERP systems, identifying misalignments that caused inefficiencies and prolonged the monthly financial closing process.
- Results: Following the review, the Board of Directors received an evaluation of staff's strengths and weaknesses and suggestions for improving accounting procedures to comply with GAAP. Additionally, they were given recommendations for enhancing the ERP system to improve management reporting, reduce month-end close times, and increase the accuracy of financial statements.
Check Smith Schafer Agency Profile
4. Kaufman Rossin
- Best for: Accounting process standardization
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 1962
- Size: 250-499
- Location: New York City, NY
- Notable clients: Britto Central, Inc., CoraCGI, Golden State Bank, Broward Crime Stoppers, Neon Money, LLC
Kaufman Rossin leverages decades of accounting experience to help clients seize financial opportunities and stay compliant with evolving standards. Its accounting portfolio spans family office services, QuickBooks consulting, real-time, and traditional accounting. With over 600 employees, the company specializes in account reconciliation, accounts payable/receivable, payroll recording, sales tax preparation, and financial forecasting services intended to reduce workload, tap into new potential, and enhance client satisfaction.
Kaufman Rossin Success Story
- Challenge: An established healthcare organization contacted Kaufman Rossin for advice on its accounting department’s performance. The department had not produced financial statements for three months and lacked the capability to handle complex scenarios associated with fund and nonprofit accounting.
- Solution: Kaufman Rossin provided outsourced accounting services and restructured the department. It compiled monthly financial statements, redefined and standardized processes, and created standard operating procedures (SOPs). The measures were envisioned to ease several critical processes, including monthly closings, cash reconciliations, and compensation processing.
- Results: Following the restructuring, the organization established a leaner, well-organized accounting and finance department with standardized processes and SOPs. Key achievements included 22 SOPs for key processes, successful monthly closings for six months, and monthly reconciliations for over 30 bank accounts, which had not been performed in over a year.
Check Kaufman Rossin Agency Profile
5. Milestone
- Best for: Fractional CFO services
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2020
- Size: Under 49
- Location: Carmel, IN
- Notable clients: Meridian Hills Country Club, Sullivan Hardware & Garden, Blind Zebra, Lessonly, Arborgold Software
Milestone offers accounting, HR, and payroll services catering to enterprises of all scales. As part of its accounting service, the company provides bookkeeping, fractional CFO services, and accounting system design and implementation, poised to help businesses run clean books and reduce their tax liabilities through strategic planning. Milestone is committed to transforming accounting into a competitive advantage through insightful financial statements, tailored financial reporting and management flows, and verified financial audits.
Milestone Success Story
- Challenge: Meridian Hills Country Club (MHCC) hired Milestone to find a new controller to replace their retiring one, who could handle daily tasks and offer strategic advice to improve the accounting department's efficiency.
- Solution: Milestone conducted an initial accounting and financial operations assessment. Following a successful assessment, Milestone was tasked with providing ongoing fractional controllership and CFO services, acting as a key liaison with the Board and Finance Committee. Milestone also led strategic initiatives for process improvement and audit preparation.
- Results: Milestone quickly filled the gap left by the previous accountant, improving overall operational efficiency and effectiveness. Specific improvements were noted in the month-end closing processes, member billing and collections, and payroll processing.
Check Milestone Agency Profile
6. Wipfli
- Best for: General ledger accounting
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 1930
- Size: 1000 & Up
- Location: Billings, MO
- Notable clients: Chippewa Sand Transport, Antigo Sign & Display, Seminole Nation Gaming Enterprise, Allstar Holdings, Gale Construction
Wipfli is an accounting firm that provides actionable financial insights to enhance business value. With decades of combined experience and specialized knowledge across various industries, Wipfli helps organizations with technical accounting, financial planning and analysis, accounting compilation, and IPO and audit readiness. Fractional CFO and controller functions encompass one of its key specialties, assisting businesses in key accounting areas such as strategic planning, margin evaluation, debt structuring, month-end close processing, financial analysis, KPI monitoring, and more.
Wipfli Success Story
- Challenge: Chippewa Sand Transport, a short-haul trucking operation, needed comprehensive bookkeeping and financial management services for its accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger maintenance, payroll, and other administrative tasks.
- Solution: Wipfli provided a range of back-office services, including general ledger accounting, payroll processing, vendor bill payments, customer invoice preparation, bank account reconciliation, monthly financial statements, and tax return preparation.
- Results: Wipfli’s outsourced services proved to be a more cost-effective investment than hiring additional personnel. The firm ensured that all accounting tasks were performed quickly, efficiently, and accurately, allowing Chippewa Sand Transport to focus on its core business operations.
7. KMK Ventures
- Best for: Accounts payable/receivable services
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2007
- Size: 100-249
- Location: Ahmedabad, India
- Notable clients: Budget Wireless Group, Bentonchem industries, MEDIQ Urgent Care
KMK Ventures offers comprehensive outsourced accounting and tax services, acting as an extended accounting back office for businesses. Its accounting suite encompasses bookkeeping, accounts payable and receivable management, tax preparation, audit support, virtual CFO services, inventory management, payroll management, and financial planning and analysis. KMK Venture’s seasoned accountants enable clients to keep accurate financial records, supporting their operations via ledger maintenance, financial statement curation, and bank account reconciliation.
KMK Ventures Success Story
- Challenge: Budget Wireless Group (BG) struggled with establishing robust internal control systems across its 300 points of sale and corresponding bank accounts. Due to an underdeveloped accounting department, it lacked visibility into operational financial results. BG sought to streamline accounts receivable, accounts payable, and inventory management processes while needing HR support for multi-state payroll processing.
- Solution: KMK Ventures onboarded 22 full-time equivalents (FTEs) as an extension to the client’s onshore accounting team. Beyond the new hires, the company reviewed BG’s business workflow to identify bottlenecks and deployed a Robotic Process Automation (RPA) feature to automate bank statement downloads for over 300 accounts, saving over 4 hours daily.
- Results: BG reduced operational overheads by over 50% and decreased its month-end close cycle to 10 days. Implementing a just-in-time ordering reduced inventory by over $6 million while successfully resolving disputes of over $5 million due to reconciling commissions.
Check KMK Ventures Agency Profile
8. Invensis
- Best for: Bookkeeping
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2000
- Size: 1000 & Up
- Location: Lewisville, TX
- Notable clients: Philips, Trend West, GRM, Chatham University, Groupon
Invensis offers comprehensive finance and accounting outsourcing services, serving as a one-stop solutions vendor for over 1,000 clients globally. With over 24 years of experience and a team of over 5000 experienced professionals, Invensis offers tailored solutions that promote scalability and agility and deliver results. Its accounting specialties include bookkeeping, financial analysis, accounts payable and receivable services, payroll processing, tax preparation, and more. Using tools like QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, and Sage, the company curates strategic financial plans, forecasts financial positions, and introduces new flows to streamline clients’ accounting practices.
Invensis Success Story
- Challenge: А Mexican fast-food chain in Brazil needed to manage daily finance and accounting tasks, including processing invoices, bookkeeping, expense accounts, and reporting. The company had a significant backlog spanning three years that needed urgent resolution for tax compliance within six months.
- Solution: To reconfigure the client's accounting flows and introduce some organization, Invensis conducted a series of activities - posting daily sales from a client-shared Excel spreadsheet, posting cash or bank payments from monthly PDFs, reconciling daily bank deposits, posting credit card charges, recording deposits from online banking statements, and managing weekly payroll accounting reconciliation. Additionally, it trained its professionals, advised on software procurement, streamlined processes, and ensured data security.
- Results: Invensis' outsourcing services resulted in a 60% cost savings and a 75% increase in cash flow. They also efficiently resolved a three-year backlog, empowering the client to process more than 1,200 supplier invoices and 3,000 sales bills per month.
9. Crowe
- Best for: Month-end close processing
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 1942
- Size: 1000 & Up
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Notable clients: AbleRidge, P2 Automation, Sikich
Crowe is an accounting, consulting, and technology firm providing financial guidance through risk-based financial statement audits, tax optimization, strategic advisory, and industry-tailored consulting services. It serves a wide range of industries, offering deep insights into leading practices. As an independent member of Crowe Global, a major accounting network with over 200 firms operating in more than 130 countries, Crowe strives to help clients navigate regulatory changes, digital disruption, and counterintuitive markets while providing bespoke accounting solutions for business growth and resilience.
Crowe Success Story
- Challenge: A publicly registered financial services company encountered difficulties with high staff turnover, struggling to meet month-end close deadlines. Seeking to hire an experienced accounting staff, the company reached out to Crowe for help and requested recommendations for a shorter month-end close schedule.
- Solution: Crowe onboarded three individuals across the client’s accounting department, tasked to manage month-end close processes and assist throughout the year-end audit process. The team attended meetings, prepared and reviewed journal entries and reconciliations, and collaborated with technical accounting and cross-functional teams while training and monitoring the new hires that were envisioned to take over these roles full-time.
- Results: The new flow improvements helped the client shorten their month-end close schedule, enabling them to meet deadlines more efficiently. By mentoring the new hires on the recent flows, Crowe ensured a smooth transition and continuity in the accounting department.
10. Baker Tilly
- Best for: Financial reports
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 1988
- Size: 1000 & Up
- Location: Calgary, Canada
- Notable clients: LandVest, Impact Seven, Bognet Construction, Kreilkamp Trucking, Wisconsin Physicians Service Insurance Corporation
Baker Tilly specializes in accounting and assurance services, focusing on financial statement audits, tax optimization, and advisory services. It leverages technology, data analytics, and industry expertise to deliver transparent and value-driven audit engagements, focusing on risk-based models, proactive client service, and compliance with regulatory requirements. Baker Tilly audits publicly listed and privately held companies of all sizes across, offering technical accounting and external audit support to ensure clients maintain clean books and tax compliance.
Baker Tilly Success Story
- Challenge: Real estate company LandVest, with its four divisions and over 33 small offices across the US, struggled with non-aligned processes across its branches and 70 separate checking accounts managed via QuickBooks, which complicated its cash report access. They sought Baker Tilly's help to reduce duplicate vendors and customers, streamline accounting processes, set up dashboards and reports, and consolidate accounting functions.
- Solution: Baker Tilly guided the implementation of Sage Intacct to unify the company's accounting system and standardize company-wide processes and accounting procedures. It also set up project accounting with time and expense tracking, consolidated accounting functions under one system, and enhanced reporting capabilities by creating detailed reports and dashboards for real-time financial overviews.
- Results: With a unified system, LandVest was enabled to manage finances more efficiently, simplify and streamline key accounting processes, and improve reporting with comprehensive real-time financial insights.
Check Baker Tilly Agency Profile
How We Picked the Best Accounting Companies
To identify the top accounting companies, we conducted a thorough review of their client feedback, success stories, industry reputation, team capabilities, client base, and areas of expertise. Through in-depth assessment, our selection team evaluated each company’s track record and capabilities that make it excel in the field.
Here are the criteria we used to rank the top accounting firms:
- Client reviews: Testimonials reflecting the company’s performance, expertise, and client satisfaction
- Portfolio: Analyzing past projects to gauge the firms' capabilities and the quality of their work
- Awards and recognition: Accolades and industry mentions that validate the firms' credibility, reputation, and innovative approaches
- Team expertise: Assessing the skills, experience, and specialized knowledge of the company’s team members
- Top services: Core services and areas of expertise across the accounting niche
- Accounting expertise: Proficiency in delivering comprehensive accounting solutions, including financial analysis, reporting, advisory services, and compliance with regulatory standards
Find out more about our selection process on the DesignRush Agency Ranking Methodology page.
10 Most Popular Accounting Firms Compared
Agency name | Location | Hourly rate | Size | Best for |
Marcum | New York City, NY | Inquire | 1000 & Up | Overall |
TGG Accounting | San Antonio, TX | $50 | 100-249 | Accounting system implementation |
Smith Schafer | Rochester, MN | Inquire | 100-249 | Financial due diligence |
Kaufman Rossin | New York City, NY | Inquire | 250-499 | Accounting process standardization |
Milestone | Carmel, IN | Inquire | Under 49 | Fractional CFO services |
Wipfli | Billings, MO | Inquire | 1000 & Up | General ledger accounting |
KMK Ventures | Ahmedabad, India | Inquire | 100-249 | Accounts payable/receivable services |
Invensis | Lewisville, TX | Inquire | 1000 & Up | Bookkeeping |
Crowe | Chicago, IL | Inquire | 1000 & Up | Month-end close processing |
Baker Tilly | Calgary, Canada | Inquire | 1000 & Up | Financial reports |
Best Melbourne Accounting Company Rankings
- Crowe LLP is a global accounting firm offering audit, tax, advisory, and consulting services. With deep industry expertise, we empower businesses to make informed decisions for lasting value. [... view the full profile of Crowe]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- Nexia Australia represents a network of solutions-focused accountancy and consultancy firms, providing a comprehensive and personalized accounting solution. With senior partners and an experienced [... view the full profile of Nexia Australia]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- Protiviti is a global consulting firm that offers deep expertise, objective insights, and tailored solutions to empower leaders in tackling future challenges. With a comprehensive range of services [... view the full profile of Protiviti]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- Grant Thornton LLP (US) is an IT, project management, audit, tax, AgTech, and BPO company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois with over 50 U.S. offices and access to a global network or member firms in [... view the full profile of Grant Thornton]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up $35/hr $1,000 - $10,000
- K Partners delivers financial advice using three main principles: Integrity, Transparency & Partnership. Helping clients create financial prosperity for their businesses, families and futures is [... view the full profile of K Partners Pty Ltd]Melbourne, Australia Under 49 Inquire Inquire
- Visory facilitates seamless integration of your business with industry-leading workflows and certified experts to execute them efficiently. Our platform offers real-time progress updates at each phase [... view the full profile of Visory]Melbourne, Australia 50 - 99 Inquire Inquire
- Phalanx Accounting Services has extensive experience in attending to all aspects of tax compliance and bookkeeping. [... view the full profile of Phalanx Accounting Services]Melbourne, Australia Under 49 Inquire Inquire
- Hall Chadwick Melbourne is a leading chartered accounting firm offering clients expert advice and a comprehensive range of accounting, audit, tax and advisory services. [... view the full profile of Hall Chadwick Melbourne]Melbourne, Australia 100 - 249 Inquire Inquire
- Join us at Deloitte, where we believe that our collective influence is the cornerstone of our value. With a rich legacy spanning over 175 years and a global network encompassing 150 countries, we [... view the full profile of Deloitte]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- Providing businesses with the most advanced accounting and financial services is Accario's primary mission. Accario's services and disciplines continue to help clients maintain a healthy balance sheet [... view the full profile of Accario]Melbourne, Australia 250 - 499 $40/hr $1,000 - $10,000
Need Help Selecting The Right Agency For Your Project?
We'll Find The Best Agencies For You- Offering AgTech, Business, and IT Services. Baker Tilly Canada Cooperative is a member of the global network of Baker Tilly International Limited, the members of which are separate and independent [... view the full profile of Baker Tilly]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- BDO is a trusted adviser to clients seeking project management, audit, tax, and business consulting services. As one of the worlds leading audit and accounting organisations, we have clients of all [... view the full profile of BDO]Melbourne, Australia Under 49 Inquire Inquire
- Offering project management, business, and IT services. At KPMG LLP, their purpose is to turn knowledge into value for the benefit of their clients, people, and the capital markets. [... view the full profile of KPMG]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- With offices in 440 cities, we operate in 150 countries across five continents, providing high quality audit, accounting, tax, and business advisory services. [... view the full profile of PKF International]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- EY offers Accounting, Business Consulting, and IT Services with a mission to build a better working world. It provides insights and quality services that instill trust in global capital markets and [... view the full profile of EY]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- Origo offers a platform solution for fast-growth, mid-market companies, that enables operational improvement. We give our partners the people, process, tech, and data that they need to accelerate [... view the full profile of Origo]Melbourne, Australia 1000 & Up Inquire Inquire
- Acuity Forensic is a forensic accounting firm based in Sydney, Australia. Trusted by litigators, blue-chip corporates, and government departments, Acuity Forensic provides expert advice, reports, and [... view the full profile of Acuity Forensic]Melbourne, Australia Under 49 $300/hr $1,000 - $10,000
- Allied Business Accountants offers year-round support and expert consultation to help businesses in Melbourne maximize profits and achieve sustainable growth. With services ranging from cash flow [... view the full profile of Allied Business Accountants]Melbourne, Australia Under 49 Inquire Inquire
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an accounting firm?
An accounting firm is a company that specializes in various accounting and bookkeeping services for its clients. Accounting agencies ensure that their clients’ financial records are accurate, up-to-date, and within legal frameworks. They help businesses understand the financial “health” of their organizations.
What services do accounting firms provide?
Accounting firms offer a wide range of financial and advisory services to individuals, businesses, and organizations. These services are designed to help clients manage their financial affairs, comply with tax laws, make informed decisions, and achieve their financial goals.
Here are some of the key services provided by accounting companies:
- Tax planning and preparation
- Operational bookkeeping and payroll
- Business development and valuation
- Financial consulting
- Mergers and acquisitions guidance
- Estate and trust planning
- Financial audits and risk management
Is an accounting firm different from a CPA firm?
An accounting firm is different from a CPA firm in terms of scope and regulations.
Accounting firms provide a wider range of financial and accounting services. On the other hand, a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) firm specifically offers accounting and auditing services. It’s typically run by CPAs who have passed the CPA exam and are licensed to practice public accounting.
Accounting firms help their clients with day-to-day financial tasks, including payroll, financial statement preparations, and bookkeeping. On the other hand, CPA firms provide specialized services like tax planning, forensic accounting, and more.
Additionally, although accounting firms are required to stick to certain standards like generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and international financial reporting standards (IFRS), they’re not as regulated as CPA firms.
CPA firms are bound by a tighter web of regulations. They need to undergo rigorous ongoing education, ethical high bars, and meticulous quality checks. They are also regulated and licensed by state boards of accountancy.
How much do accounting companies charge for their services?
Accounting firms typically charge from $20-50/hour for basic bookkeeping to $300/hour for specialized consulting. [Hello Bonsai] Their costs are usually based on a fixed fee, hourly rate, or percentage of assets managed. That said, costs can vary depending on the firm’s experience level and qualifications, location, and complexity of work.
The average costs per accounting project based on business size are shown in the table below:
Project/service | Individuals/smaller businesses | Larger enterprises |
Tax preparation | $100 - $500 | $500 - $5,000 |
Financial statement review | $1,000 - $5,000 | $500 - $5,000 |
Auditing services | $5,000 - $25,000 | $50,000 - $100,000 |
Why should I hire an accounting firm?
Hiring an accounting firm provides expertise in financial management, ensuring compliance with tax laws and financial regulations. These companies:
- Provide valuable financial guidance and planning
- Handle financial tasks, freeing up your time
- Maintain precise financial records
- Reduce the risk of financial mistakes
- Give valuable insight into your business’s financial aspect
- Are often cost-effective compared to hiring in-house staff
Businesses can gain numerous benefits from outsourcing their accounting needs. For example, in a case study by TGG Accounting, a collaboration between its accounting firm and Flying A Media increased operational efficiency. The agency established a comprehensive accounting manual, integrated new systems, and trained staff.
How to choose the right accounting company for my business?
Here is a step-by-step guide to finding the right accounting firm for your business:
- Determine your needs: Identify your specific accounting and financial needs. Determine whether you need tax preparation, bookkeeping, audit services, financial planning, or a combination of services.
- Ask for referrals from fellow business owners: Seek recommendations from other professionals in your industry. Referrals can be a valuable way to identify trusted partners and avoid potential pitfalls.
- Conduct online research: Online reviews and testimonials can provide unique insight into how the company works and how well it takes care of its clients.
- Review their pricing, deliverables, and payment structure: Understand how they charge, (e.g., fixed fee, hourly rate, or retainer). Clarify any hidden costs or minimum contract value.
- Check what technologies they are using: Find out if they’re fluent with the latest accounting tools and software like Xero, QuickBooks, and others.
- Find out if they’re certified: Are they certified public accountants (CPA), chartered accountants (CA), certified management accountants (CMA), or others? Although bookkeeping and tax regulation don’t necessarily require certified professionals, securing loans and auditing do.
Need help finding the best accounting firm that matches your business needs? Just tell us what kind of accounting services you’re looking for, and our Agency Team will send you a list of top accounting firms that we think are the best fit.
Visit the Marketplace to learn more about this free service.
What questions should I ask accounting firms before hiring one?
If you’re considering hiring an accounting firm, there are several questions you should ask to ensure they’re the right fit for your needs. Here’s a list of targeted questions to guide your decision-making:
- What specific accounting services do you offer?
- Do you have experience working with clients of similar industry and size?
- Are you adept at using the latest accounting software or tools like QuickBooks, FreshBooks, Xerox, and more?
- Are you open to learning about the accounting tools that my business currently uses?
- How do you ensure data security and confidentiality?
- How do you identify potential tax-saving opportunities for my business?
- What are some of the tax strategies you've implemented for clients in the past?
- How do you stay updated on the latest changes in accounting regulations and tax laws?
- How can you ensure my business remains compliant with all relevant financial regulations?
- How can you assist in long-term financial planning for my business's growth and stability?
- Could you provide references from current or past clients?
- How do you structure your fees (e.g., hourly rate, flat fee, percentage of revenue)?
- How often can I expect updates and reports on my financial situation?
- What's your preferred mode of communication? How quickly can I reach you if I have questions or concerns?
- How do you handle discrepancies and disagreements regarding finances?
What are the most popular locations for accounting firms?
Accounting firms tend to cluster in areas where there is a high concentration of businesses, financial institutions, and economic activity. Some of the most popular locations for accounting companies include:
What are the leading accounting firms in the U.S.?
Agency | DesignRush rating | Google rating | Top clients |
CapexCPA | 4.9 (2 reviews) | 4.9 (105 reviews) |
|
Outbooks | 4.8 (1 review) | 4.6 (8 reviews) |
|
Jordensky | 4.8 (1 review) | 4.9 (40 reviews) |
|
Avidity | 4.7 (1 review) | 5.0 (4 reviews) |
|
Outstaff Your Team | 5.0 (4 reviews) | 5.0 (28 reviews) |
|
What are the Big 4 Accounting Firms?
The "Big 4" refers to the world’s four largest public accounting firms by revenue, encompassing Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG. These accounting conglomerates are estimated to audit more than 80% of all US publicly listed entities, showcasing esteemed prominence in corporate finance advisory, audit, tax, data assurance, and digital transformation. Cumulatively, they amass more than $100 billion in revenue and have substantial influence and a globally established client base.
Here's a brief breakdown of all Big 4 accounting firms:
- Deloitte
Known for its global presence, Deloitte provides a wide range of services, including audit, consulting, tax, and advisory. The company’s workforce comprises over 330,000 members spread across 150 global locations. Over the last 25 years, Fortune Magazine has honored Deloitte as one of the ‘100 Best Companies to Work For in America’. - PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
PwC is renowned for its audit and assurance services, international financial reporting standards (IFRS) reporting, consulting, and tax solutions. Its global operations are spread across 159 countries, with local offices in 800 cities. PwC secured the 22nd spot on Fortune's 2024 ‘100 Best Companies to Work For' list, marking its highest ranking in seven years. - EY (Ernst & Young)
EY’s commitment to building a better working world is reflected through its broad range of services pertinent to assurance, advisement, taxation, and financial audit. The company supports digital pioneers in fighting data piracy, helps governments navigate cash-flow crises, and conducts high-quality audits to foster trust in financial markets and businesses. EY’s employee network comprises 400,000 people and one million alumni scattered across 150 global branches. - KPMG
KPMG assists global organizations in managing risks and seizing financial opportunities via holistic audit, tax, and advisory services. The conglomerate caters to businesses, governments, public-sector agencies, non-profits, and through their audit and assurance practices, the capital markets. KPMG operates in 143 countries, and in FY23, the branches collectively employed over 270,000 people.
Why Trust DesignRush
A trusted B2B marketplace connecting businesses with top-tier accounting firms, DesignRush maintains an impressive 4.7 rating on Trustpilot and Google.
Our dedicated team of agency experts built a network of over 30,000 agencies. We simplify the agency selection process, providing value to clients and agencies alike, via the DesignRush Marketplace.
Media Features
As a media platform, our press releases are picked up by 141 media outlets and reach a potential audience of 70 million. Our expertise extends to reputable platforms, such as Forbes, MSN, Yahoo! Finance, CNBC, MarketWatch, and Benzinga, solidifying our presence in the industry.
These achievements underscore our commitment to providing valuable insights and solutions within the digital landscape.
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Accounting Expertise
Accounting firms on DesignRush offer services such as bookkeeping, tax preparation, financial planning, and auditing to clients across various sectors, helping them maintain accurate financial records. These accounting companies manage day-to-day financial transactions, oversee bill payments, detect financial discrepancies, monitor cash flow, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Agency Credibility Indicators
The top accounting firms highlight their exceptional performance through prestigious awards and recognitions, such as:
- International Accounting Bulletin Awards
- Thomson Reuters Luca Pacioli Accounting Awards
- The Stevies International Business Awards
- IFAC Global Leadership Awards
- AICPA Outstanding CPA in Government Award
These accolades underscore the firms’ reputation within the accounting industry, illustrating their outstanding capabilities in maintaining clean financial records.
Their expertise is verified through various certificates, including:
- Certified Public Accountant Accreditation by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- Chartered Global Management Accountant Accreditation by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
- CFA Institute Certified Financial Analyst
- Institute of Management Accountants’ (IMA) Management Accountant Certification
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Enrolled Agent Accreditation
Agencies’ Supported Technologies
Accounting firms are proficient in various industry-standard technologies, tools, and software, including but not limited to QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, Sage, FreshBooks, ADP Payroll, TurboTax, Xero, and many more.
Agency Reviews
For deeper insight into these agencies, DesignRush features client testimonials that share project challenges, results, and overall feedback. Each review undergoes verification, ensuring that the insights we present are both current and accurate.
Using the Bayesian Statistical Method, our algorithm calculates the most probable success rate for each agency. This reduces bias and promotes equity in the rating system, aligning our agency rankings more closely with the genuine quality of the services they offer.
Content Relevance & Accuracy
We make sure our content stays up to date, incorporating the latest listing data, industry trends, emerging technologies, and real-time insights supplied by agencies. It is reviewed by seasoned industry professionals who also provide their invaluable expertise – ensuring accurate and in-depth information.