How Much Should I Pay for a CPA?

Dimov Tax Services operates a Denver based accounting firm that provides expert CPA support, tax audit representation, payroll processing, and international tax solutions for individuals and businesses. Located at 1700 Lincoln St, they serve clients throughout the Denver area.

Dimov Tax Specialists

1700 Lincoln St

Denver CO 80203

(833) 829-1120

Understanding CPA Pricing in Denver

If you're asking how much you should pay for a CPA, the answer depends heavily on the complexity of your financial situation, the scope of services you need, and the experience of the CPA or firm you're working with.

In a market like Denver, CPA fees range from $200 for simple services to $3,000 or more for complex tax planning or business services. The important takeaway is this: you're not just paying for someone to fill out forms—you’re paying for insight, risk mitigation, compliance, and often, serious tax savings.

Typical CPA Service Fees in Denver

Below is a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay when hiring a CPA in Denver, based on both industry averages and local pricing patterns:

Service Average Cost Notes Individual Tax Return (1040 with itemization) $300 – $600 Varies based on complexity (e.g. real estate, stock sales) Small Business Tax Return (1120, 1065, 1120S) $800 – $1,500 Includes depreciation schedules, K-1s, business deductions Bookkeeping Services $100 – $300/month Ongoing monthly reconciliation; price varies with volume Payroll Processing $50 – $150/month + per-employee fee Includes W-2s, 941/940 forms, direct deposit setup IRS Audit Representation $200 – $400/hour Specialized service requiring CPA licensure Financial Statement Preparation $500 – $2,000 Often required for business loans or partners Tax Planning & Strategy Consultation $150 – $350/hour Helps reduce tax liability and optimize future filings

Source: Denver CPAs, AICPA benchmarks, IRS provider data

Factors That Influence CPA Fees

Not every CPA charges the same, and not every client needs the same services. The cost depends on several variables:

• Type of Client: Individuals, sole proprietors, partnerships, and corporations all come with different reporting and compliance needs.
• Service Scope: Tax preparation only? Or ongoing support including bookkeeping, payroll, and financial guidance?
• Documentation Provided: The more organized your records are, the less time a CPA needs to spend—saving you money.
• Software Compatibility: Firms like Dimov Tax Services use integrated systems like QuickBooks Online and UltraTax CS to reduce inefficiencies.
• Regulatory Complexity: Filing in multiple states, managing international investments, or dealing with audits will naturally increase fees.

Hourly vs. Flat Rate: What to Expect

Some CPA firms still use hourly https://servicebucket.blob.core.windows.net/cpa-denver-colorado/cpa-firm/real-estate-cpa-denver317681.html billing, particularly for consultation and audit defense work. Others, like Dimov Tax Specialists, offer fixed-fee packages to provide predictability and value.

Typical hourly rates for licensed CPAs in Denver fall between $150–$350/hour, depending on specialization (real estate, international tax, audit defense, etc.). However, most tax preparation and business services are billed as packages:

• Starter Packages: Flat rate for individual returns with 1–2 income sources
• Business Bundles: Includes tax prep, bookkeeping, and quarterly planning
• Premium Advisory Plans: Ongoing CFO-style support for growing companies

Dimov’s team offers tailored quotes after a discovery session and document review—ensuring you only pay for what you truly need.

How CPA Fees Compare to Non-CPA Services

It’s important to note that a CPA typically charges more than a general tax preparer or bookkeeper—but for good reason. Here's how CPA fees stack up:

Provider Average Fee for Individual Return IRS Representation? State Licensing? CPA (e.g., Dimov) $300–$600 ✔ ✔ Non-CPA Accountant $150–$300 ✘ ✘ Tax Preparer (e.g., H&R Block) $100–$200 ✘ ✘

For clients with real estate portfolios, business income, or multi-state taxes, the added cost of a CPA is often offset by strategic planning and error prevention.

What Makes Dimov Tax Specialists a Cost-Effective Choice?

Located in downtown Denver, Dimov Tax Specialists deliver top-tier CPA services with transparent pricing. Here’s how they offer value:

• No hidden fees: Clear quotes after document review
• Bundled packages: Bookkeeping + tax = lower total cost
• Expertise built-in: Audit defense, IRS communication, tax planning
• Tech-enabled service: Cloud-based file sharing, e-signatures, portal access
• Multilingual staff: Serving a diverse Denver community

While some firms nickel-and-dime clients with extra charges for questions or minor forms, Dimov includes proactive tax advice and personalized care in their pricing.

How to Know If the Price You’re Quoted Is Fair

To assess whether a CPA’s quote is reasonable, ask yourself:

• Does this price include document review, e-filing, and audit protection?
• Am I working with a licensed CPA who can represent me before the IRS?
• Are bookkeeping, payroll, or planning consultations included?
• Is this a local Denver firm that understands Colorado tax law?

Remember, the cost of fixing a tax error or missing a deduction is often far higher than a few hundred dollars saved upfront.

Why Paying More Can Save You More

There’s truth to the saying: you get what you pay for. An experienced CPA can reduce your audit risk, structure your finances to save thousands in taxes, and keep you in compliance with both state and federal regulations.

Dimov Tax Services takes pride in helping clients avoid financial pitfalls by offering smart, affordable solutions with long-term value.

Final Thoughts: What Should You Really Expect to Pay?

For most individuals and small businesses in Denver, working with a CPA should cost anywhere from $300 to $1,200+ depending on the scope and https://storage.googleapis.com/cpa-denver-colorado/cpa-firm/whats-the-difference-between-an-accountant-and-a-cpa.html complexity. That fee buys more than a tax return—it buys expertise, security, and often, measurable savings.

If you want help understanding what’s fair for your situation, Dimov Tax Specialists offers complimentary consultations and quotes based on your goals and documentation.

When it comes to your taxes, it's not about paying more—it's about paying smarter.