Sam's List is a curated directory of vetted financial professionals including accountants, CPAs, financial advisors, bookkeepers, and fractional CFOs. We help business owners and high net worth individuals find the right professional through verified reviews, detailed profiles, and a matching quiz that connects you with professionals based on your needs, industry, and financial profile.

How does Sam's List vet the professionals on the platform?

Every professional on Sam's List goes through a review process before being listed. We review their credentials, confirm they are actively practicing, and monitor their client reviews over time. Unlike directories that let anyone pay to be listed, we maintain quality standards so the professionals you see are legitimate and reputable.

Are the reviews on Sam's List real?

Yes. Every review on Sam's List is submitted by someone who has interacted with that firm. We do not allow firms to remove negative reviews or manipulate their ratings. Every reviewer must authenticate through LinkedIn, Google, or Twitter before submitting a review. No anonymous reviews are allowed.

How is Sam's List different from other financial professional directories?

Most other platforms take 5-10% of your annual contract when you hire a firm through them, sometimes in perpetuity. Sam's List takes zero referral fees and zero commissions. Our reviews are verified through social authentication and cannot be removed by the firm, and our matching quiz recommends professionals based on your specific situation rather than who paid the most for visibility.

Does it cost anything to use Sam's List?

No. Sam's List is completely free for anyone searching for a financial professional. You can browse profiles, read reviews, take the matching quiz, and contact professionals at no cost.

What is the best way to find a personal accountant?

Kimberly Green | 2025-07-17

Summary

Start with referrals, check credentials, ask about experience with your financial situation, set clear expectations, and prioritize communication. A good financial advisor should feel like a trusted partner, not a reactive fixer.

Finding a Personal Accountant

Looking for a personal CPA that actually returns calls and meets deadlines? You’re not alone. Many Reddit users report being ghosted by highly recommended professionals or stuck with slow service. Here’s a strategic guide to finding one who truly delivers.

(Inspired by Reddit threads like this one on how to vet a personal accountant.)

1. Start with Trusted Referrals

Begin with friends, family, colleagues, and financial advisors who have similar needs. Online tools like LinkedIn and professional directories like Sam's List help you vet further.

2. Vet Credentials and Experience

Look for:

CPA or EA licensing
Experience with situations like yours (for example, small business, real estate, equity comp)
Responsiveness and clarity about pricing and services

3. Ask Smart Interview Questions

What is your turnaround time?
Do you serve clients with my income or situation?
How do you charge?
What is your process for staying updated on tax changes?

A strong tax professional will be transparent and admit what they don’t know, then follow up.

4. Red Flags to Watch For

Avoid those who:

Are slow to respond or vague
Overpromise refunds without details
Can’t explain pricing or deliverables
Lack familiarity with your income type or industry

Checklist: Vetting a Personal Financial Advisor

Step	What to Look For	Why It Matters
Ask for referrals	From friends and financial professionals	Trusted pros work with trusted pros
Verify credentials	CPA or EA, relevant experience	Avoids compliance issues
Assess communication	Timely replies, clear expectations	Critical for tax season peace of mind
Clarify pricing model	Hourly, flat, by-form	Prevents surprise billing
Look for transparency	Open about process and limits	Signals long-term reliability

FAQs

Q: CPA or EA—what’s the difference?

A: CPAs tend to have broader training. EAs specialize in taxes. Choose based on your needs.

Q: How often should we check in with accountants?

A: At least once a year. Quarterly if you’re managing multiple income streams.

Q: Can I switch accountants easily?

A: Yes. Ask your current professional for copies of previous returns and documentation to make the transition smoother.

Author: Kimi, Co-founder of Sam’s List
Kimi writes about what she's learning while building Sam’s List and shares honest takeaways from her conversations with CPAs and financial advisors across the country. None of this is financial advice—just the stuff most people wish someone told them sooner.