CPAs provide myriad services ranging from assurances of financial information to tax planning and compliance to strategic advice on any number of personal and organizational decisions. Core services include:

Financial Statement Audit

An objective evaluation of an organization's financial statements to ensure they are pretty and accurately represented so third-party investors, creditors, and the public can rely upon them.

Review

Narrower in scope than an audit, a CPA provides limited assurance that they are unaware of any material modifications that should be made to the financial statements.

Examination

A CPA can also provide assurance (or audit) on non-financial information, such as IT systems, security and privacy controls, sustainability, and other business matters.

Compilation

The CPA applies accounting and financial reporting expertise to assist their client in presenting financial information but does not provide any assurance of the financial statements.

Tax Planning and Preparation

A CPA provides tax planning strategies and prepares federal, state, and local tax returns; helps clients comply with tax laws and regulations; and represents clients before various tax agencies.

Management and Business Consulting

Clients may ask a CPA to engage in many consulting activities, such as advising on the adequacy of accounting systems and internal controls, outlining possible strategic options to improve operations, advising on mergers and acquisitions, providing business valuations or assisting in the implementation of information systems.

Forensic Accounting

CPAs pair accounting, tax and financial skills with investigative talents to help clients resolve significant financial matters involving the investigation of fraudulent activities, bankruptcy reorganization, financial disputes and civil and criminal litigation.

Financial Services

CPAs may provide services related to financial planning for individuals and businesses, investment advice and management, retirement and estate planning, and business succession planning.