Beyond tax preparation: How CPAs become the first call for clients

What separates a trusted advisor from a tax preparer? In this episode of It’s a Write Off, Joel Lutz and Trevor Myres, CPA/PFS, explore what happens when an accounting firm becomes one of the first calls a client makes when something happens in their business, even when the issue has little to do with taxes. After a client reached out for help navigating a potential legal situation, Joel and Trevor discuss how proactive communication, fixed-fee engagements, strong professional networks, and integrated advisory services can transform the CPA-client relationship. They also dig into the connection between tax planning and financial planning, including how Myres CPA integrates wealth management into its advisory model. Trevor explains why coordination between a client’s CPA and financial advisor matters, how disconnected advice can derail a tax strategy, and what accounting firms should look for when choosing financial planning partners.