Question 1

Why should I hire a CPA instead of using tax software?

Accepted Answer

While tax software can help prepare a return, it doesn't provide personalized advice or strategic financial planning. A CPA evaluates your complete financial picture, identifies tax-saving opportunities, helps you stay compliant, and provides guidance throughout the year—not just during tax season. At Stoney Financial, we help individuals, business owners, and real estate professionals make informed financial decisions that support long-term success.

Question 2

What accounting and tax services does Stoney Financial provide?

Accepted Answer

Stoney Financial LLC offers comprehensive CPA and advisory services, including tax planning and preparation, business accounting, bookkeeping, financial reporting, business advisory, startup support, auditing, consulting, and personal financial guidance. Every service is tailored to your unique goals, whether you're an entrepreneur, real estate investor, contractor, or individual seeking trusted financial expertise.

Question 3

Do you work with businesses and real estate professionals?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We specialize in helping small business owners, real estate professionals, investors, contractors, and construction businesses manage their accounting, bookkeeping, taxes, and financial strategy. We understand the unique challenges these industries face and provide proactive guidance that helps clients improve cash flow, reduce tax liability, and make confident business decisions.

Question 4

Do you offer virtual accounting and tax services?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. While Stoney Financial is based in Kennesaw, Georgia, we serve clients throughout Metro Atlanta, across Georgia and Florida, and nationwide through secure virtual accounting, bookkeeping, tax, and advisory services. Whether you prefer meeting in person or online, you'll receive the same personalized attention and professional expertise.

Question 5

When is the best time to meet with a CPA?

Accepted Answer

The best time to meet with a CPA is before important financial decisions or tax deadlines—not after. Meeting throughout the year allows you to plan ahead, identify tax-saving opportunities, improve financial organization, and avoid costly surprises. Proactive planning is one of the most effective ways to build long-term financial confidence.

Question 6

How do I get started with Stoney Financial?

Accepted Answer

Getting started is simple. Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your financial goals, business needs, or tax concerns. We'll learn about your current situation, answer your questions, and recommend the services that best support your objectives. From there, we'll create a personalized financial strategy designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Question 7

What accounting topics should every small business owner understand?

Accepted Answer

Small business owners should have a basic understanding of bookkeeping, cash flow, profit and loss statements, balance sheets, business expenses, tax planning, and budgeting. You don't need to become an accountant, but understanding these fundamentals can help you monitor your financial health and make more informed business decisions.

Question 8

How often should a small business review its financial reports?

Accepted Answer

Most small businesses benefit from reviewing key financial reports at least monthly. Regularly reviewing your profit and loss statement, balance sheet, cash flow, accounts receivable, and accounts payable can help you identify trends, manage expenses, prepare for taxes, and address potential problems earlier.

Question 9

What is the difference between bookkeeping and accounting?

Accepted Answer

Bookkeeping focuses on recording and organizing financial transactions, such as income, expenses, invoices, and payments. Accounting uses that financial information to create reports, analyze performance, support tax planning, and guide business decisions. Both play an important role in maintaining a financially healthy business.

Question 10

What is the difference between tax planning and tax preparation?

Accepted Answer

Tax preparation focuses on accurately preparing and filing tax returns based on financial activity that has already occurred. Tax planning is proactive and looks ahead at financial decisions that may affect future tax obligations. Year-round tax planning can help business owners and individuals prepare for taxes and reduce unexpected surprises.

Question 11

When should a small business owner hire a CPA?

Accepted Answer

Consider working with a CPA when your business is growing, your bookkeeping is becoming difficult to manage, your tax situation is getting more complex, or you need help understanding financial reports and making important business decisions. A CPA can also provide year-round guidance instead of only helping during tax season.

Question 12

Where can I find reliable tax and small business financial information?

Accepted Answer

Start with trusted professional and government resources. The Stoney Financial Blog provides practical articles on accounting, bookkeeping, tax planning, real estate, and business finances, while our Resource Center connects you with useful guides, checklists, tax deadlines, and official resources from organizations such as the IRS, Georgia Department of Revenue, and U.S. Small Business Administration.

Financial Insights to Help You
Make Smarter Decisions

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Tax Planning vs. Tax Preparation: Why Year-Round Planning Saves Money

7 Signs Your Small Business Needs a CPA

The Complete Guide to Small Business Accounting: Everything Business Owners Need to Know

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