How much does an accountant cost in the US?

CPA fees in the United States range from about $250 for a simple individual return to $2,500 or more for an S corporation or partnership. Most self-employed people pay $400 to $1,200 a year.

Typical price ranges in the US

• Individual return (Form 1040): $200 to $600
• Self-employed with Schedule C: $400 to $1,200
• S corporation or partnership return: $800 to $2,500
• Advice and planning: $150 to $400 an hour

Figures are typical ranges in US dollars for independent freelancers and small agencies in the United States, before any sales tax. They are our own estimates, not quotes.

What pushes the price up

The number of forms and schedules, business income, rental property, investments, filings in more than one state, and how organised your records are.

What applies in the US

Returns are filed with the IRS and usually with your state too. Self-employed people pay estimated tax four times a year, and an S corporation must run payroll for its owner. A CPA or an enrolled agent can represent you before the IRS if a question comes up.

How to compare quotes fairly

List what you need filed in a year and ask each accountant to price that list. A fixed annual fee is easier to compare than an hourly rate. On VouchQuote every quote follows the same structure and at most three professionals reply, so you can compare them side by side. Quotes on VouchQuote are shown in US dollars.

Questions to ask before you hire

• Which returns and filings are included?
• Are you a member of a recognised body?
• Is advice during the year included?
• What happens if I receive a notice from the tax office?