Areas served: Lexington, Virginia and surrounding Rockbridge County areas
Lexington, home to Washington and Lee University and Virginia Military Institute, generates distinct accounting demand from academic institutions, small downtown businesses, and rural Rockbridge County farms and estates. The local market includes 34 providers ranging from solo CPAs and Enrolled Agents to national franchises, with ratings from 3.7 to 5.0 stars. While the top-ranked provider—Carmen Margy Spruill EA Bookkeeping Solutions Inc, scoring 84.70/100 with 104 reviews—operates from nearby Stafford, local firms like Newcomb's Accounting & Tax Services (5 stars, 8 reviews) and Imler & Imler, CPAs, PLC (4.3 stars, 4 reviews) serve Lexington and Rockbridge County directly. Providers have been evaluated and compared using provider-verified profiles and independent research into credentials, service offerings, client feedback, and local expertise.
Carmen Margy Spruill EA Bookkeeping Solutions Inc is a family-run accounting firm operating in Stafford, VA since 1992, led by Enrolled Agent Carmen (Margy) Spruill. They provide comprehensive tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll services, and tax planning for individual taxpayers and small businesses including sole proprietors, LLCs, partnerships, corporations, estates, and trusts. Margy is also a Registered Social Security Analyst, offering specialized guidance to optimize Social Security benefits for those nearing retirement.
Paramount Tax & Accounting in Fredericksburg, VA provides comprehensive tax preparation and accounting services for individuals and businesses of all sizes. Their team of licensed tax professionals offers personal tax preparation, business tax services, bookkeeping, payroll processing, and incorporation assistance. They specialize in maximizing deductions and credits, conducting 3-year tax reviews, and providing IRS audit defense support through their Protection Plus partnership.
Liberty Tax in Roanoke specializes in comprehensive tax preparation services for both individuals and businesses. Located on Williamson Rd, this office offers personal tax filing, business tax services, and convenient refund advance options to help clients manage their tax obligations efficiently. Their experienced team provides in-person consultations and flexible appointment scheduling to serve the local community.
Your Assistant Bookkeeping, LLC, owned by Tammy Tackett, provides comprehensive bookkeeping and accounting support to small business owners in the Augusta County, Staunton, and Waynesboro areas since 2007. Services include monthly bookkeeping, payroll management, bookkeeping cleanup and catch-up, software training (QuickBooks and Xero), cash flow planning, and CPA-ready reporting. Tammy offers both on-site and remote support, specializing in helping businesses organize their finances, plan for tax savings, and achieve growth.
TMD Services LLC is a Fredericksburg-based accounting and tax preparation firm founded in 2012 by Tammy, offering personalized service to both individuals and businesses. Services include tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll processing, business startup consulting, expense reduction, budgeting, and IRS representation for tax issues and past returns. Known for close client relationships and avoiding the impersonal treatment of larger firms, TMD combines advanced training, technical expertise, and continuous professional development to deliver comprehensive financial guidance.
GBS Financial Services, LLC is a full-service accounting firm based in Charlottesville specializing in tax preparation, bookkeeping, and financial consulting for individuals and businesses. The firm helps clients navigate complex tax situations, maintain accurate financial records, and make informed business decisions. They're known for their personalized approach and commitment to helping clients maximize their financial position.
Jackson Hewitt Tax Service in Buena Vista offers comprehensive tax preparation and financial services for individuals and small businesses. Their Tax Pros specialize in individual income tax filing, self-employed and gig-worker taxes, IRS audit representation, and tax planning consultation. They also provide convenient drop-off tax preparation, refund advance loans up to $3,500, bookkeeping services, and financial products like prepaid debit cards, serving farmers, first responders, military members, retirees, and those with investment income.
Jackson Hewitt Tax Service in Fredericksburg offers comprehensive tax preparation services including individual income tax filing, self-employed and gig-worker taxes, amendments and extensions, and IRS audit representation. Their Tax Pros specialize in serving diverse populations including farmers, first responders, military service members, retirees, and those with investment income or rental properties. The office provides flexible options like drop-off service, refund advance loans up to $3,500, year-round support, and Spanish-speaking staff.
Fraim, Cawley & Company, CPAs is a Lynchburg-based accounting firm specializing in tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, and business advisory services for business owners, entrepreneurs, and high-income individuals. Led by Micah Fraim and Dave Cawley, the firm goes beyond basic tax prep to help clients structure finances tax-efficiently through strategies like entity optimization, QBI deduction planning, forensic accounting, exit planning, and business valuation. They're known for proactive strategic planning, accessibility, and helping clients identify missed deductions and save significant tax dollars.
H&R Block is a national tax preparation and accounting service offering individual and business tax filing, IRS representation, bookkeeping, and payroll services. Their Lexington location provides in-person tax preparation with experienced tax professionals who help clients navigate complex tax situations and maximize refunds. They combine personalized service with access to H&R Block's extensive resources and technology platform.
H&R Block is a full-service tax preparation and accounting firm offering individual and business tax services, bookkeeping, payroll processing, and IRS representation. With decades of experience and certified tax professionals, H&R Block helps individuals and small business owners navigate complex tax situations and maximize deductions. Their Fredericksburg location provides in-person tax preparation, virtual consultations, and year-round accounting support.
Jackson Hewitt Tax Service is a national tax preparation franchise offering individual and business tax filing, tax refund advances, and year-round tax planning. Located on Courthouse Rd in Fredericksburg, this office provides in-person tax preparation with trained tax professionals who help clients navigate complex returns and maximize deductions. They specialize in serving busy professionals, self-employed individuals, and families seeking expert guidance during tax season and beyond.
H&R Block is a national tax preparation and financial services firm offering comprehensive tax filing services for individuals and businesses. Their Fredericksburg location provides in-person tax preparation, IRS representation, bookkeeping support, and payroll services. With decades of experience and trained tax professionals, H&R Block helps clients navigate complex tax situations and maximize refunds.
Newcomb's Accounting & Tax Services is a locally-owned firm in Lexington with over 15 years of experience serving individuals, small businesses, and corporations throughout Rockbridge County. They provide comprehensive tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services with a focus on accuracy and professional quality. Their experienced team handles everything from individual tax returns to complex business accounting needs.
Hunt & Associate, LLC is a family-owned accounting firm in Stuarts Draft, Virginia, with three generations of tax professionals dedicated to serving individuals and businesses. They specialize in comprehensive tax preparation and planning, bookkeeping services, and payroll processing, with a focus on maximizing tax savings while ensuring compliance. The firm distinguishes itself through personalized, family-style service and the ability to deliver all services remotely through a secure encrypted client portal.
DT & Company, PLC is a boutique accounting firm in Amherst, VA led by Douglas L. Thompson, CPA, who brings over 30 years of experience in tax preparation, financial planning, business advisory, and valuation services. They serve individuals and businesses throughout Central Virginia with personalized attention, combining the nimbleness of a small firm with comprehensive expertise. The firm specializes in personal financial planning (retirement, college savings, estate planning), strategic business planning, and helping clients build and preserve wealth.
Blue Ridge Business Service LLC is an accounting firm serving the Concord area with a focus on personalized financial management for small to medium-sized businesses. They provide comprehensive accounting services including bookkeeping, tax preparation, and business financial planning to help owners understand and optimize their financial position.
The Jefferson CPA Group, Ltd. is a Lynchburg-based accounting firm offering comprehensive tax and business services for business owners, executives, and independent professionals. They provide tax preparation, tax planning, tax problem resolution, small business accounting, payroll services, and specialized QuickBooks setup and training. Known for combining personal service with expertise and maintaining affordable rates, they offer a free initial consultation and secure client portal access.
Liberty Tax Service in Staunton offers comprehensive tax preparation for both individuals and businesses. Located at 2301 W Beverley St, this franchise office specializes in personal tax filing, business tax services, and provides access to Easy100 Advance loans for eligible taxpayers seeking faster refunds. The team helps clients navigate tax season efficiently with in-person appointments and extended hours to accommodate busy schedules.
Forest Accounting Services Inc provides comprehensive accounting solutions to individuals and businesses in the Forest, VA area. Operating from their Thomas Jefferson Road location, they offer tax preparation, bookkeeping, and accounting services tailored to their clients' specific needs. With a focus on personalized service and attention to detail, they help clients navigate tax obligations and maintain accurate financial records.
Imler & Imler, CPAs, PLC is a full-service accounting firm run by CPAs Craig and Tracy Imler, providing comprehensive tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll management, and business advisory services to individuals, businesses, nonprofits, trusts, and estates. They specialize in tax planning, compliance, corporate documentation, and sales tax expertise, with additional capabilities in capital fundraising and mergers & acquisitions guidance. Located in Lexington, they serve clients throughout the central Virginia region including Staunton, Roanoke, Rockbridge County, and Augusta County.
FXBG Accounting & Advisory provides comprehensive accounting and tax services to small businesses and individuals in the Fredericksburg area. The firm specializes in bookkeeping, tax preparation, and business advisory services tailored to local entrepreneurs. Their personalized approach and deep knowledge of Virginia tax requirements help clients maximize deductions and maintain accurate financial records.
Greg C. Raetz is a CPA and co-founder of Raetz and Hawkins, P.C., bringing over 40 years of public accounting experience to individual and estate tax services in Lexington. He specializes in tax return preparation for individuals, estates, and trusts, along with comprehensive tax planning. Previously a tax specialist at international firm Price Waterhouse, Greg combines deep expertise in complex tax matters with strong community roots and a long-standing commitment to personalized client service.
Roy E. Carter, CPA PC is a certified public accounting firm serving the Staunton area since 1998, with decades of combined experience. They offer comprehensive tax preparation for individuals and businesses, QuickBooks Pro advisory services, and personal accounting services. Their team of certified public accountants provides dependable, professional service tailored to clients throughout Staunton, VA and surrounding areas.
Kelemen & Stephens PLLC is a CPA firm based in Fredericksburg, VA, offering comprehensive accounting, tax, and business advisory services to individuals and companies. Founded by experienced CPAs, the firm specializes in tax planning, bookkeeping, financial statement preparation, and personalized business consulting. They focus on building long-term client relationships by providing strategic financial guidance tailored to each client's unique situation.
One Plus One Accounting Services is an independent accounting firm based in Staunton, Virginia, offering comprehensive tax and accounting solutions for individuals and small businesses. With a focus on personalized service and attention to detail, they help clients navigate their financial needs with straightforward, reliable guidance.
Cornett Tax Inc is a local accounting firm serving Lexington, VA and the surrounding area. They provide comprehensive tax preparation and accounting services for individuals and businesses, helping clients navigate tax planning, compliance, and financial management needs.
Sareen & Associates CPA is a full-service accounting firm serving the Fredericksburg area with expertise in tax planning, preparation, and business accounting. The firm works with individuals and businesses to optimize their financial strategies and ensure compliance with current tax regulations.
Lexington Tax Advisors is a tax consulting firm serving the Lexington, Virginia area. They provide expert tax planning and advisory services to help clients optimize their financial strategy and navigate complex tax situations. Based on their consultant and finance focus, they work with individuals and businesses to develop tailored tax solutions.
Swisher & Johnson, CPAs, PLC is a full-service CPA firm in Lexington, VA offering comprehensive accounting, tax, and financial planning services for individuals, businesses, and nonprofits. They specialize in tax preparation and planning, small business accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, IRS representation, and business advisory services including succession planning and business valuation. Known for combining personal service with expertise at affordable rates, they pride themselves on being large enough to meet all client needs while maintaining a small-firm approach.
Tax Clinic is an IRS-affiliated tax assistance location in Lexington, VA offering free tax preparation and filing services to qualifying individuals. Located at 204 W Washington St, this clinic provides one-on-one tax help, refund status assistance, payment options, and access to IRS resources including free e-filing through IRS Free File. They serve as a local taxpayer assistance center with extended hours during tax season.
Living Water Farm Bookkeeping provides comprehensive bookkeeping services to small businesses and farms in the Natural Bridge, Virginia area. They handle daily financial record-keeping, transaction management, and financial organization to help business owners maintain accurate records and understand their financial position. With a focus on serving the local agricultural and small business community, they offer personalized bookkeeping support tailored to the needs of working entrepreneurs.
John C. Hash is a CPA partner at Brown Edwards, a full-service accounting firm with over 26 years of experience providing assurance services, tax preparation, and specialized expertise in automotive dealerships, construction, higher education, and not-for-profit organizations. Brown Edwards offers comprehensive accounting services including tax planning, bookkeeping, payroll, and IRS representation, with a strong commitment to client education through blogs, webinars, and in-person events. The firm combines deep industry knowledge with personalized service for businesses and organizations throughout the Roanoke area.
Carmen Margy Spruill EA Bookkeeping Solutions Inc ranks #1 with a Lantern Score of 84.70/100, 5 stars, and 104 reviews. This family-run firm has operated since 1992, led by Enrolled Agent Carmen Spruill, and specializes in tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, and Social Security planning for small businesses, self-employed individuals, and estates. While based in Stafford, they serve clients remotely. For local Lexington providers, Newcomb's Accounting & Tax Services holds 5 stars with 8 reviews and over 15 years serving Rockbridge County businesses and individuals.
Pricing information is not publicly listed for Lexington-area accounting and tax providers. Costs typically vary based on service complexity—simple individual tax returns may start around $150-$300, while small business tax preparation and monthly bookkeeping can range from $300-$1,500+ depending on transaction volume and entity type. Estate and trust returns, business formation, and payroll services typically command higher fees. Contact providers directly for quotes tailored to your specific needs.
None of the 34 accounting and tax providers in the Lexington directory report weekend hours. Most firms operate Monday-Friday during traditional business hours, though some national franchises like H&R Block and Liberty Tax may extend hours during peak tax season (January-April). For weekend access, consider providers offering remote services or drop-off options, such as Jackson Hewitt's drop-off service or firms explicitly advertising remote availability like Your Assistant Bookkeeping, LLC.
Living Water Farm Bookkeeping specializes in farm accounting and bookkeeping for agricultural enterprises in Natural Bridge and surrounding areas. Jackson Hewitt Tax Service on Magnolia Ave in Buena Vista explicitly lists farmers and agricultural business owners among their specialties, offering experience with Schedule F farm income reporting, depreciation of equipment, and crop insurance proceeds. Rockbridge County's rural character means most local CPAs have at least some agricultural client experience.
Several providers offer IRS representation: Paramount Tax & Accounting (83.71/100, 55 reviews) includes tax audit defense among core services. National chains H&R Block and Jackson Hewitt provide IRS representation services at their Lexington and nearby locations. Swisher & Johnson, CPAs, PLC explicitly lists IRS representation alongside their comprehensive CPA services. Enrolled Agents like Carmen Margy Spruill hold federally-authorized credentials to represent taxpayers before the IRS at all administrative levels.
The most rigorous credential is CPA (Certified Public Accountant), requiring 150 college credit hours, passing a four-part exam, and continuing education. Enrolled Agents (EAs) like Carmen Margy Spruill specialize in taxation, pass a three-part IRS exam, and have unlimited representation rights before the IRS. For complex business accounting, audits, or financial statement compilation, prioritize CPAs. For tax-focused services including audit defense, both CPAs and EAs are well-qualified. Many franchise preparers have IRS Annual Filing Season Program credentials or hold no designation—ask about specific qualifications and experience relevant to your situation.
Local CPA firms like Newcomb's Accounting, Imler & Imler, and Swisher & Johnson offer continuity, deep local market knowledge, and relationship-based service—valuable for complex business advisory, multi-year tax planning, estate work, and industries with specialized needs (farms, nonprofits, professional practices). National franchises like H&R Block, Liberty Tax, and Jackson Hewitt provide standardized processes, extended hours during tax season, upfront pricing, refund advance products, and multiple locations—advantageous for straightforward W-2 returns or clients who value convenience and brand recognition. Consider complexity of your situation, desired ongoing relationship, and service model preference.
Nonprofits require specialized expertise in Form 990 preparation, donation acknowledgment compliance, program expense allocation, unrelated business income tax (UBIT), and tax-exempt status maintenance. John C. Hash at Brown Edwards brings expertise serving higher education institutions and nonprofits. Swisher & Johnson explicitly serves nonprofits among their client base. Key considerations include experience with your organization size (small local vs. large foundation), grant accounting requirements, and audit preparation if your budget exceeds Single Audit thresholds. Academic institutions have unique considerations around research funding, endowment management, and student employment tax treatment.
Using one provider for both bookkeeping and tax preparation ensures consistency, reduces reconciliation work, and enables proactive year-round tax planning rather than reactive year-end scrambling. Providers like Your Assistant Bookkeeping (QuickBooks certified, 5 stars, 46 reviews), TMD Services LLC (founded 2012, personalized service), and GBS Financial Services offer integrated bookkeeping and tax services. However, some businesses prefer separating functions for internal controls or pricing competition—monthly bookkeeping from a bookkeeper and annual tax from a CPA. Evaluate based on your business complexity, control environment needs, and whether strategic tax planning matters more than cost optimization.
Tax preparation is backward-looking compliance work—filing returns based on prior-year transactions already completed. Tax planning is forward-looking strategy—structuring current and future transactions to minimize tax liability legally. For example, tax planning involves timing income and deductions, choosing business entity types (S-corp vs. LLC), optimizing retirement contributions, and implementing estate strategies before year-end. CPAs like Kelemen & Stephens PLLC and The Jefferson CPA Group explicitly highlight tax planning alongside preparation. Many preparers focus primarily on compliance; if you have a growing business, real estate investments, or complex income sources, seek providers who emphasize proactive planning and year-round advisory relationships.
QuickBooks-certified accountants like Your Assistant Bookkeeping and Roy E Carter CPA PC receive specialized training in setup, customization, troubleshooting, and best practices for QuickBooks Desktop and Online. They help with initial chart of accounts design, integration with bank feeds and payroll, custom reporting, month-end close procedures, and cleanup of poorly-maintained files. This certification matters most for businesses already using or planning to use QuickBooks—certified advisors can train your staff, automate workflows, and ensure your books support accurate tax reporting. For businesses using other platforms (Xero, FreshBooks) or needing extensive customization, industry-specific expertise may matter more than platform certification.
Self-employed individuals and gig workers face quarterly estimated tax payments, self-employment tax (15.3% Social Security and Medicare on net earnings), home office and vehicle expense deductions, retirement plan options (Solo 401k, SEP-IRA), and careful recordkeeping for 1099 income. Providers like TMD Services LLC, Paramount Tax & Accounting, and Jackson Hewitt locations explicitly serve self-employed clients. Key planning opportunities include maximizing deductions for business use of home, mileage or actual vehicle expenses, health insurance premiums, and retirement contributions that reduce both income and self-employment tax. Common mistakes include missing quarterly payments (triggering penalties), poor expense documentation, and failing to separate business and personal finances.