Business Details
31 Years
experience
Certified Small Business Accounting Experts Orlando
Cole & Associates is a trusted accounting firm committed to helping clients maintain financial viability while proactively addressing future goals through open communication, thorough research, and sound analysis. Established in 1995, we have built a reputation for excellence in serving small businesses across Florida. Our team combines technical expertise with personalized service to solve complex accounting challenges. We focus on understanding each clients unique needs to improve tax positions, capital structures, business strategies, and acquisition potential. Our mission extends beyond compliance, aiming to add value to businesses and asset bases through innovative solutions.With decades of combined experience, including senior roles at major firms like Ernst & Young and Price Waterhouse, our professionals deliver reliable accounting services that adapt to evolving economic landscapes. We prioritize building long-term relationships by saving clients time and providing actionable financial insights. As fully licensed CPAs and CMAs, we uphold the highest standards of professionalism while maintaining membership in prestigious organizations like FICPA and AICPA. Our commitment to client success has made us the preferred choice for businesses seeking expert accounting guidance in Orlando and beyond.
Services
Tax Planning
Auditing Services
Payroll Management
Advisory Consulting
Financial Reporting
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer 28 years of specialized small business accounting expertise
- Our team includes licensed CPAs with Big Four firm experience
- We provide personalized service with proactive financial strategies
- We maintain memberships in top professional organizations (FICPA, AICPA)
- We combine technical excellence with transparent communication
Associations and certifications
- Certified Public Accountants (CPA)
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
What people say
Proactive financial advice
CPA expertise
Personalized service
Regulatory compliance
Business growth strategies
Services
Tax Planning
Our tax planning services combine deep regulatory knowledge with strategic foresight to optimize clients' financial positions. We analyze business structures, identify deductions, and implement year-round strategies that reduce liabilities while maintaining compliance. Our CPA-certified team stays current with evolving tax laws to ensure maximum savings and operational efficiency.
Auditing Services
We conduct comprehensive financial audits that verify accuracy and compliance with GAAP standards. Our process examines internal controls, tests financial records, and provides independent assurance to stakeholders. This service helps businesses strengthen credibility with investors, lenders, and regulatory bodies through transparent reporting practices.
Payroll Management
Our payroll services handle complete payroll cycle management including tax filings, compliance reporting, and wage distribution. We utilize advanced accounting software to ensure accuracy while reducing administrative burdens. This service helps businesses maintain regulatory compliance and employee satisfaction through timely, error-free processing.
People
Dayo O. Apena
Managing Member
CPA and CMA professional with 17+ years of experience in risk management and assurance services. Holds advanced degrees from Florida Tech and UCF. Former consultant at Ernst & Young, specializing in financial controls and compliance strategies for diverse industries.
Elizabeth D. Ferrara
Senior Manager
23+ year expert in QuickBooks accounting with specialized knowledge of community association financial systems. Holds CPA and CAM licenses. Former Price Waterhouse professional with extensive experience in small business financial reporting and process optimization.
Ronald A. Cole
Founding Member
Established the firm in 1995 after 12+ years at Price Waterhouse and KPMG. UCF graduate and former U.S. Marine Corps Captain. Industry leader in condominium association accounting, with leadership roles in CAI and Florida legislative advocacy groups.
Questions
What accounting services do you specialize in for small businesses?
We specialize in tax planning, financial audits, payroll management, and business advisory services tailored specifically for Florida's small business environment.
Are your accountants certified professionals?
Yes, our team includes Certified Public Accountants (CPA) and Certified Management Accountants (CMA) with extensive industry experience across multiple sectors.
How do you help businesses with tax compliance?
We provide year-round tax strategy development, accurate return preparation, and proactive updates on changing tax regulations to ensure complete compliance.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Orlando, we serve small businesses across the entire state of Florida through both onsite and virtual service delivery.
