Discover credible accounting firms in Rochester, NY, specializing in fund management, farm accounting, and growth-stage businesses across the Monroe, Ontario, and Orleans counties. Use filters to narrow your search and find the right partner.
Connect with the Best Accountants in Rochester NY
Every Rochester NY accountant on DesignRush has been evaluated for its credibility, expertise, and service reliability. Some listings may be paid.
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Accounting Firms Near Rochester
Frequently Asked Questions About Accounting Firms Rochester NY
What services do Rochester accounting firms typically offer?
Accounting firms in Rochester, New York, offer a comprehensive range of services that help businesses maintain regulatory compliance and meet their financial goals. These typically include:
- Bookkeeping: Recording and managing daily incoming and outgoing transactions, such as equipment purchases and payment of bills, to keep ledger up to date.
- Payroll management: Computing and processing employee compensation, including wages, benefits, and payroll taxes according to federal, New York state, and local tax rules.
- Business tax preparation and filing: Preparing a business’s tax returns and compiling supporting documents to help ensure accurate, compliant filings.
- Audits and assurances: Analyzing a business’s financial statements and internal controls for accuracy, fairness, and regulatory adherence.
- Business advisory and consulting: Offering specialized expertise, such as litigation, business valuation, forensic accounting, and financial planning support.
- Business formation: Providing guidance on entity choice (e.g., S-Corp, LLC, etc.) and tax implications for the New York business incorporation process.
Additionally, many offer accounting software setups (e.g., QuickBooks and ZOHO), trust and estate tax support, and individual and family accounting services.
What is the difference between an enrolled agent and a certified public accountant in Rochester, New York?
In summary, an enrolled agent (EA) is a federal-licensed professional who specializes in tax work. On the other hand, a certified public accountant (CPA) is a state-licensed professional who can provide broader accounting and assurance services in addition to tax. Here’s a breakdown of their differences:
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What industries do they specialize in?
Accountants in Rochester, NY specialize in multiple industries, as they cater to the various needs of businesses in the Greater Rochester area. However, they’re more commonly known to serve the following:
- Manufacturing: Known as the birthplace of Kodak, Xerox, and Bausch & Lomb, many local firms are experienced in variance analysis, inventory costing, and operational KPIs tailored to the manufacturing sector.
- Healthcare: With institutions like Rochester General Hospital and Unity Hospital of Rochester, accountants are experts in revenue cycle management, medical bookkeeping, and reimbursement-related reporting.
- Education: Home to Rochester Institute of Technology and University of Rochester, firms are skilled in Uniform Guidance/Single Audit support, grant accounting, and board reporting.
- Government: As a major employment sector in the region, many accountants have expertise in GASB-based reporting and compliance reporting.
- Agribusiness: Dubbed the front door to the Finger Lakes Region, Rochester accounts for 21% of New York’s farmland. As such, local accountants are skilled in farm accounting, seasonal cash flow management, and navigating the USDA, FDA, and EPA regulations.
On top of these sectors, Rochester accountants are also experts in accounting for nonprofit organizations, food and beverage businesses, real estate companies, dental practices, and more.
How far back can your business be audited in New York?
Your business can be audited for up to three years after a return is filed, according to the New York State Tax Law. However, the statute of limitations can be extended to over 6 years when there’s an indication of tax avoidance, or the taxpayer omits over 25% of their gross income.
There may be no time limit to assess additional tax if the business fails to file a tax return, or if the IRS suspects fraudulent behavior, gross negligence, or tax evasion.
Additionally, businesses that qualify for New York’s Voluntary Disclosure and Compliance Program can expect a 3-6-year lookback period to resolve tax debts and gain protection from criminal referrals.
Can a Rochester accounting firm represent you in a New York audit?
Yes. Qualified accounting firms in Rochester (e.g., New York-licensed CPA with a PTIN) can represent you before the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance if you authorize it with the power of attorney.
Because these firms understand New York's audit process, they can help you compile the necessary documents to defend your position and negotiate with the IRS or state representative to reduce risk and liability.
About The Author and Expert Reviewer
Dušan Milutinović is a finance expert with an MBA from Purdue University in the U.S. He has gained over 15 years of experience from his roles as the CFO of Serbia Broadband, Board Member of Hemofarm AD, General Manager of STADA, and Consultant at IFC (Member of The World Bank), as well as KPMG (BearingPoint). He is currently the Senior Finance Manager at DesignRush, overseeing the company's finance, administration, and reporting processes.






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