Certified Public Accountants for Tax, Audit, and Advisory Services
CPA firms are professional practices staffed by Certified Public Accountants—the highest credential in the accounting profession. CPAs are licensed by state boards, must pass the rigorous Uniform CPA Examination, and complete continuing education to maintain their licenses . For individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations, CPA firms provide critical services including tax preparation and planning, financial statement audits, bookkeeping, and strategic advisory.
What Services Do CPA Firms Offer?
Tax Services
CPA firms prepare and file tax returns for individuals, businesses, estates, trusts, and nonprofit organizations. They also provide year-round tax planning to minimize liabilities, estimate quarterly payments, and represent clients before the IRS in audits or disputes .
Audit and Assurance Services
Financial statement audits provide independent verification that an organization’s financial records are accurate and comply with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). CPA firms conduct audits, reviews, and compilations for businesses, nonprofits, and government entities.
Accounting and Bookkeeping
Many CPA firms offer day-to-day bookkeeping services: recording transactions, reconciling accounts, processing payroll, and preparing financial statements .
Advisory and Consulting
CPAs advise on business structure, mergers and acquisitions, succession planning, estate and gift tax planning, and other strategic matters.
Nonprofit Services
Specialized CPA firms help tax-exempt organizations prepare Form 990, conduct independent audits, and maintain compliance with IRS requirements.
CPA vs. Other Tax Professionals
| Credential | Licensing | Representation Rights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPA | State Board | Unlimited | Complex tax, audit, business advisory |
| Enrolled Agent (EA) | IRS | Unlimited | Tax preparation and resolution |
| Tax Preparer | State/local (varies) | Limited | Simple tax returns |
CPAs are the only professionals who can conduct audits and issue audit opinions. They are also qualified to provide a broader range of advisory services beyond taxation .
How to Choose a CPA Firm
Verify Credentials – Confirm that the firm’s CPAs hold active licenses with your state board of accountancy. You can verify Virginia CPA licenses through the Virginia Board of Accountancy and DC licenses through the DC Board of Accountancy .
Consider Specialization – Some CPA firms specialize in particular industries (nonprofits, government contractors, real estate, healthcare). Look for experience relevant to your situation.
Evaluate Size and Resources – Larger firms may offer more specialized expertise; smaller firms may offer more personalized attention and lower rates.
Understand Fee Structure – CPA firms may charge hourly rates, flat fees, or retainer arrangements. Request a clear estimate before engaging services.
Schedule a Consultation – Most CPA firms offer an initial consultation to discuss your needs and determine fit.
CPA Firms Serving Virginia and Washington DC
The Washington DC metro area presents unique tax and accounting challenges, including:
Multi-state filing across Virginia, DC, and Maryland
Virginia’s fixed-date conformity to federal tax law (December 31, 2025)
DC’s highly progressive income tax rates (top bracket of 10.75%)
Nonprofit compliance requirements for tax-exempt organizations
Working with a local CPA firm that understands these complexities is essential for accurate compliance and tax optimization.
Get a Trusted CPA Firm
At Nova Tax & Accounting Services , our licensed CPAs provide comprehensive tax, audit, accounting, and advisory services to individuals, businesses, and nonprofits across Northern Virginia and Washington DC. Schedule your free consultation today to experience the difference of a local, trusted, proven CPA firm.