How Much Does an Accountant Cost?
This guide covers typical accountant rates, the factors that change a bill, and practical ways to compare quotes from businesses.
Typical prices by job
| Job | What it involves | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Basic tax return | Individual federal filing | $150 - $400 |
| Monthly bookkeeping | Transaction recording and reports | $300 - $1,500 |
| Business tax preparation | Business return and schedules | $1,000 - $5,000 |
Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.
What affects the price
The biggest price drivers are the type of work, number of income sources, business structure, transaction volume, and condition of the records. A straightforward return with organized documents costs less than work involving investments, rental property, multiple states, payroll, or overdue filings.
Large cities and specialized credentials often bring higher rates. Rush work, meetings, tax planning, audits, amended returns, and responding to tax notices may be billed separately or at a higher hourly rate.
How to pay less
Gather statements, receipts, prior returns, and bookkeeping reports before requesting quotes. Ask whether the fee is flat or hourly, what services are included, and what triggers extra charges. Comparing several providers can also reveal whether a monthly package or one-time engagement fits better.
Quotes from checked, reviewed providers on Reedleys are easier to compare against these typical ranges because you can evaluate business details and client feedback alongside the proposed scope.
Cost questions
Some offer a short introductory call at no cost, while others bill for consultation or tax planning time. Ask before scheduling and confirm whether the fee is credited toward later work.
Quotes reflect differences in scope, experience, software, location, deadlines, and the quality of your records. A lower quote may exclude filing, cleanup, review, or follow-up support.
Yes. Request a written scope that lists deliverables, deadlines, billing method, expected expenses, and rates for additional work.
Recognized Accountant businesses
Los Angeles forensic accounting and advisory firm providing litigation support and expert testimony.
Provides tax preparation and electronic filing, with assistance handling IRS audits.
Brooklyn accounting service offering tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, and business setup.
Brooklyn accounting firm offering bookkeeping, payroll, tax preparation, and business financial services.
Tax preparation and bookkeeping for individuals and small businesses in Brooklyn.
Brooklyn accounting and tax firm serving individuals and businesses in most U.S. states.
A Houston certified public accounting firm acquired by LaPorte in 2023, serving nonprofit organizations, charter schools, and energy industry clients.
Tax preparation and notary services in Houston, including federal and state returns.
Houston tax service for individuals and business owners, offering tax preparation, filing, and related tax services.
Houston financial services firm offering tax preparation, bookkeeping, business formation, notary, translation, ITIN, and QuickBooks support.