Business Details
Your Trusted Tax & Accounting Partner in East Aurora, NY
At Philipps & Brooks, we bring over four decades of expertise in tax and accounting services to individuals and businesses across Western New York. Our team of certified professionals is dedicated to providing personalized solutions tailored to each client's unique financial needs. We specialize in tax return preparation, strategic planning, IRS representation, and small business support, ensuring compliance while optimizing financial outcomes. With a focus on transparency and client education, we empower clients to make informed decisions about their finances.Our commitment to exceptional service is reflected in our approachable team, competitive pricing, and proactive communication. We pride ourselves on building long-term relationships through reliability and deep industry knowledge. Whether you're navigating complex tax codes or seeking strategic business advice, our experience positions us to deliver trusted guidance. Our local presence in East Aurora, NY, combined with our comprehensive service offerings, makes us a valuable partner for both personal and business financial success.
Services
Tax Return Preparation
Business Tax Services
IRS Representation
Strategic Planning
Bookkeeping Services
Payroll Processing
Audit Representation
Small Business Start-up
Estate Tax Services
Tax Resolution
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of local tax and accounting expertise
- Our team includes four licensed CPAs and specialized professionals
- We provide IRS audit representation and tax resolution services
- Competitive pricing with upfront cost transparency
- We deliver personalized service through in-person and virtual consultations
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
- New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants
Services
Tax Return Preparation
We prepare accurate individual and business tax returns while identifying legitimate deductions and credits. Our CPAs stay current with changing tax codes to ensure compliance and optimize refunds. Clients receive clear explanations of their returns and proactive advice for future tax years.
IRS Representation
Our team handles IRS and NYS tax notices, audits, and collection issues. We negotiate offers in compromise, installment agreements, and penalty abatements. With decades of experience, we resolve tax disputes while minimizing financial impact for individuals and businesses.
Business Tax Services
We provide comprehensive tax planning and compliance for small businesses, including entity selection, payroll tax, and sales tax registration. Our services cover quarterly filings, year-end returns, and strategic advice to reduce tax liabilities while supporting business growth.
Strategic Planning
We develop customized tax and financial strategies for life events like home purchases, college funding, and retirement. Our planning considers current obligations and future goals, helping clients make informed decisions that align with their long-term financial objectives.
Bookkeeping Services
We maintain accurate financial records through systematic bookkeeping, including general ledger maintenance, bank reconciliations, and payroll processing. Our services ensure businesses have reliable financial data for decision-making, tax preparation, and regulatory compliance.
People
Richard A. Brooks
Principal CPA
With over 40 years of experience, Richard leads our firm's tax strategy and client services. He specializes in complex tax issues and business succession planning, bringing deep expertise in IRS compliance and financial optimization for high-net-worth individuals.
Karen Kellogg
Tax Manager CPA
Karen oversees tax operations and client advisory services. Her expertise includes small business taxation, estate planning, and tax-efficient investment strategies. She ensures our team delivers consistent, high-quality service across all client engagements.
Cara L. Sheehan
CPA
Cara specializes in individual tax compliance and financial planning. She works closely with clients to navigate life changes, from marriage to retirement, ensuring their tax strategies align with evolving personal and financial circumstances.
Theo Fadel
CPA
Theo focuses on business tax services and audit representation. He helps companies optimize tax positions while maintaining compliance, with particular expertise in sales tax nexus issues and multi-state tax planning for growing businesses.
Rachael Weber
Junior Accountant
Rachael supports our bookkeeping and payroll services, ensuring accurate financial record-keeping for small businesses. She assists with tax preparation and client communications, bringing fresh perspective to our established practices.
Questions
What tax services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide complete business tax services including entity selection, payroll tax, sales tax registration, quarterly filings, and year-end returns. Our team also offers strategic tax planning to minimize liabilities.
Can you help with IRS audit representation?
Yes, our CPAs represent clients during IRS and NYS audits. We handle all communications, review proposed changes, and advocate for accurate tax assessments while protecting client interests.
Do you offer virtual tax preparation options?
We provide secure virtual consultations and document submission through our client portal. Most clients find this method convenient, though in-person meetings remain available for complex cases.
How are your tax preparation fees structured?
Fees depend on return complexity, with rates comparable to other local firms. We provide upfront estimates before work begins and maintain transparent pricing without hidden charges.
What happens if I receive an IRS notice?
Bring us the notice immediately. We'll analyze the issue, determine if the IRS proposal is correct, and handle all necessary communications to resolve the matter efficiently.
Do you assist with business start-up accounting?
Yes, we guide new businesses through entity selection, EIN acquisition, tax registration, and accounting system setup to establish strong financial foundations from day one.
