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50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Columbus Accounting Firm Since 1926
T E Lott has been providing comprehensive financial services since 1926, with a legacy built on Quality, Integrity, Service, and Professionalism. Our team of certified public accountants and financial specialists serves businesses and individuals across the Golden Triangle region and beyond, offering tailored solutions in tax strategy, accounting, and business advisory. With over 60 employees across three offices, we combine nearly a century of industry expertise with personalized attention to help clients achieve long-term financial stability.

Our services span audits, payroll management, estate planning, and specialized consulting, ensuring businesses and individuals receive strategic guidance aligned with evolving financial landscapes. We maintain deep expertise in regulatory compliance and financial reporting, serving diverse industries including banking, manufacturing, and nonprofit organizations while upholding our family-founded commitment to excellence.
Services
Tax Preparation Business Accounting Payroll Services Audits & Reviews Estate Planning Cash Flow Management New Business Formation Non-Profit Services Employee Benefits Government Auditing
Details
  • Year established: 1926
Highlights and features
  • We have nearly 100 years of experience in accounting and financial services.
  • Our team includes certified public accountants with expertise in tax, audits, and business advisory.
  • We offer tailored services for businesses and individuals in Columbus and surrounding areas.
  • We provide comprehensive audit, payroll, and financial planning solutions.
  • Our legacy of family leadership ensures continuity and client-focused values.
What people say
Professional service Personal attention Quality service Expertise Trusted firm
Services
Business Accounting
Our business accounting services ensure accurate financial records and compliance for companies of all sizes. By handling bookkeeping, balance sheet preparation, and general ledger management, we enable business owners to focus on growth while maintaining financial clarity and regulatory adherence.
Tax Preparation
We provide comprehensive tax preparation services for individuals and businesses, maximizing deductions while ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. Our CPAs analyze financial situations to optimize returns and minimize tax liabilities through strategic filing approaches.
Audits & Reviews
Our audit services deliver assurance through three levels of engagement: compilations, reviews, and full audits. We help businesses meet stakeholder requirements by verifying financial accuracy and providing independent assessments that support lending, compliance, and strategic decision-making processes.
Estate Planning
We offer personalized estate planning guidance to protect assets and facilitate smooth financial transitions. Our services include trust establishment, will preparation, and strategic planning to address individual needs while considering future uncertainties and potential changes in circumstances.
Payroll Services
Our payroll solutions streamline business operations by handling tax withholdings, employee payments, and regulatory filings. We reduce administrative burdens, allowing owners to reclaim up to 12 days annually for core business activities while ensuring payroll accuracy and compliance.
People
Thomas Edison Lott, Sr.
Founder
Certified in 1926 as Mississippi #126, he established the firm with expertise in banking and manufacturing, creating a legacy of accounting excellence.
Thomas Tommy Lott, Jr.
Managing Partner
Joined firm in 1958, led from 1971. Expanded services to include consulting and retirement planning while maintaining core tax and audit practices.
Clay Richardson
Starkville Office Lead
Manages Starkville operations with expertise in local business financial needs, ensuring client access to strategic accounting solutions in east Mississippi.
Michael Prince
Senior Accountant
Provides advanced tax and audit services in Columbus, combining technical expertise with personalized client support for businesses and individuals.
Mark Vickers
Financial Advisor
Specializes in business valuation and growth strategy, helping clients prepare for mergers, acquisitions, and long-term financial sustainability.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide comprehensive services including payroll, bookkeeping, cash flow management, and audits tailored to small business needs.
How can your firm help with tax planning?
Our CPAs develop strategic tax plans to legally minimize liabilities while maximizing after-tax income through year-round planning.
Do you work with nonprofit organizations?
Yes, we handle IRS reporting, tax-exempt status maintenance, and financial compliance for nonprofit entities.
What estate planning services are available?
We guide clients through customized estate planning processes, addressing wills, trusts, and financial transitions with personal support.
Are you experienced with government entity accounting?
Our team specializes in governmental accounting standards, including pension liabilities and federal grant compliance audits.
Can you assist with employee benefit plan administration?
We support employers with designing, implementing, and maintaining competitive employee benefit packages across business sizes.