Business Details
Your Trusted Laredo CPA Firm for Tax & Financial Services
Bert Kraus CPA has served Laredo, TX for over four decades, building a legacy of trust and expertise in accounting, tax, and financial services. Founded by the first female CPA in Laredo, our firm combines generational knowledge with modern technology to deliver comprehensive solutions for businesses and individuals. Our team of certified professionals specializes in tax planning, IRS audit representation, QuickBooks support, and personalized financial strategies tailored to high-net-worth clients and small business owners.We prioritize proactive accounting, leveraging cloud-based tools to streamline processes while maintaining the personalized attention that defines our family-owned practice. With deep roots in the community and partnerships across legal, investment, and insurance sectors, we provide holistic financial guidance designed to minimize liability, maximize growth, and ensure long-term stability for our clients.
Services
Tax Preparation
QuickBooks Setup
Payroll Services
Personal Financial Planning
IRS Audit Representation
Business Accounting
Estate Planning
Bookkeeping
Retirement Planning
Business Formation
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined accounting expertise in Laredo's unique border economy.
- Our team includes a CPA licensed since 1985 with experience at Ernst & Young.
- We provide integrated financial solutions through partnerships with legal and investment professionals.
- Our staff has served the local community for decades, ensuring deep market knowledge.
- We combine cloud-based technology with personalized service for efficient results.
Services
Tax Preparation
Our tax preparation services cover individual and business needs, including complex filings for oil and gas, real estate, and transportation industries. We specialize in minimizing liability through strategic deductions and credits while ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. Our team stays current with evolving tax laws to provide accurate, future-focused solutions for optimal financial outcomes.
QuickBooks Setup
We provide customized QuickBooks setup and training for businesses transitioning to digital accounting. Our services include system configuration, integration with third-party tools, and staff training to maximize software efficiency. We ensure seamless implementation that aligns with your specific business processes and financial management goals.
Payroll Services
Our comprehensive payroll services handle tax compliance, direct deposits, and reporting requirements for small to mid-sized businesses. We manage federal and state filings, tax deposits, and year-end documentation while staying updated on legislative changes to maintain compliance and reduce administrative burdens for business owners.
IRS Audit Representation
We provide expert representation during IRS audits, handling all communications and documentation to protect your interests. Our approach includes preparing responses to notices, negotiating settlements, and appealing unfavorable decisions. Our licensed professionals work to minimize additional liabilities while guiding clients through complex audit processes.
Personal Financial Planning
Our financial planning services create customized strategies for retirement, education funding, and estate preservation. We analyze assets, risk tolerance, and long-term goals to develop comprehensive plans that address tax efficiency, investment growth, and family protection through insurance and estate documentation.
People
Herbert (Bert) N. Kraus, Jr.
CPA
Third-generation CPA with 35+ years of experience, licensed since 1985. Specializes in business taxation and financial planning. Member of AICPA and Texas Society of CPAs. Leads firm with focus on community service and technology integration.
Karina Chavez
CPA/Office Manager
Licensed CPA since 2009 with expertise in tax preparation and business formation. Manages day-to-day operations while providing specialized accounting solutions. Graduated from Texas A&M International University with advanced accounting credentials.
Irma Laura Davila
Senior Tax Accountant
30-year veteran of the firm with extensive experience in corporate and individual tax services. Supervises payroll processing and reporting. Holds associate's degree in accounting and provides continuity through multiple generations of clients.
Amber Avis
Financial/Tax Accountant
13-year team member pursuing CPA and CFP certifications. Handles bookkeeping, payroll, and tax preparation. Specializes in client education through seminars and personalized financial guidance for investment optimization.
Blanca M. Cruz
Financial/Tax Accountant
15-year veteran providing accounting, tax, and payroll services. Progressed from receptionist to key technical role. Deep understanding of local business needs through long-term client relationships and industry-specific expertise.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide full-cycle accounting including bookkeeping, payroll, financial statements, tax compliance, and business advisory services tailored to small business needs in Laredo and surrounding areas.
How can you help with IRS audit issues?
Our licensed professionals handle all aspects of IRS audits, from correspondence to in-person representation, working to minimize liabilities while ensuring proper documentation and compliance with tax regulations.
Do you offer QuickBooks support for existing businesses?
Yes, we provide QuickBooks setup, training, system reviews, and troubleshooting to help businesses maximize their accounting software's capabilities for improved financial management.
What financial planning services are available for individuals?
We offer comprehensive planning covering retirement strategies, education funding, estate preservation, and risk management tailored to high-net-worth individuals and families' long-term goals.
Can you assist with cross-border business ventures?
Our firm leverages proximity to the Mexico border to help international clients establish Texas businesses, providing accounting, tax, and compliance guidance for cross-border operations.
How do you stay updated on tax law changes?
Our team maintains active CPA licenses, participates in continuing education, and collaborates with legal and investment professionals to ensure compliance with evolving federal, state, and international tax regulations.
