# Best Accounting Firms in Chicago, IL

## How Many Accounting Firms Products Does G2 Track?

**Total Products under this Category:** 151

### Category Stats (Aug 2026)

- **Average Rating:** 4.24/5 (↑0.02 vs Jul 2026) The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings

_Last updated: August 01, 2026_

## How Does G2 Rank Accounting Firms Products?

**Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:**

- 30 Analysts and Data Experts
- 700+ Authentic Reviews
- 151+ Products
- Unbiased Rankings

G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category.

## G2 Grid® for Accounting Firms 
 ![G2 Grid® for Accounting Firms plotting products by satisfaction and market presence](https://www.g2.com/categories/accounting-firms/grids.png?focus%5B%5D=55613&focus%5B%5D=161000&focus%5B%5D=113590&focus%5B%5D=1405496&focus%5B%5D=1338&focus%5B%5D=1466358&focus%5B%5D=10751&focus%5B%5D=148954)

Highlighted products: Pilot, Zeni, PwC, Inkle, KPMG, Haven, Indinero, and Collective.

Underlying data: [Grid® JSON](https://www.g2.com/categories/accounting-firms/grids.json?focus%5B%5D=pilot&focus%5B%5D=zeni&focus%5B%5D=pwc-pwc&focus%5B%5D=inkle-2024-11-18&focus%5B%5D=kpmg&focus%5B%5D=haven-2025-06-02&focus%5B%5D=indinero&focus%5B%5D=collective)

**Sponsored**

### Contentstack

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[Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=ppc&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list_llm&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=797&secure%5Bchosen_at%5D=2026-08-05T18%3A39%3A51Z&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_id%5D=1414&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bplacement_reason%5D=retargeted_product&secure%5Bplacement_resource_ids%5D%5B%5D=6293&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=6293&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=797&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Faccounting-firms%2Flocations%2Fchicago-il-us&secure%5Btoken%5D=99529dd7bc34ae13a70578ff69be9bebbff7d5a078d6977d19486c911ed15d30&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.contentstack.com%2F%3Futm_campaign%3Dfy27_glb_cam_da_pr_4336_g2%26utm_medium%3Dpaid-review%26utm_source%3Dg2%26utm_content%3Dclicks_pilot%26utm_term%3Ddxp&secure%5Burl_type%5D=custom_url)

### [KPMG](https://www.g2.com/products/kpmg/reviews)

We offer broad management consulting skills including technology enablement.

**Average Rating:** 4.2/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 22

#### Who Is the Company Behind KPMG?

- **Seller:** [KPMG](https://www.g2.com/sellers/kpmg-e2874d4d-01ea-4fab-aa80-7344e39b9d73)
- **HQ Location:** New York
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=6484382897b6c40df8932121e1811ba762577fa5b7c029aabc8189b25bf072fc&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fkpmg-us&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
53,551 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Top Industries:** Accounting
- **Company Size:** 50% Medium, 36% Small

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of KPMG?

**["The greatest financial service"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/kpmg-review-7640920)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— John M._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/kpmg-review-7640920)

**["KPMG - Right Choice"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/kpmg-review-8605228)**

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

_— Verified User in Consulting_

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/kpmg-review-8605228)

### [Plante Moran](https://www.g2.com/products/plante-moran/reviews)

Plante Moran a public accounting and business advisory firms that provide clients with tax, audit, risk management, financial, technology, business consulting and wealth management services.

**Average Rating:** 4.8/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 2

#### Who Is the Company Behind Plante Moran?

- **Seller:** [Plante Moran](https://www.g2.com/sellers/plante-moran)
- **Year Founded:** 1924
- **HQ Location:** Southfield, Michigan, United States
- **Twitter:** @PlanteMoran  
3,641 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=7f0710dd39498b305d5eff152dadc0ac07c47b530c518ad17f19f61de84ee232&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F8795&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
4,547 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Company Size:** 100% Medium

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Plante Moran?

**["Great experience!"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/plante-moran-review-7717828)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Will M._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/plante-moran-review-7717828)

**["Deep Expertise Across Subjects That Delivers Results"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/plante-moran-review-13132319)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— William M._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/plante-moran-review-13132319)

### [Sikich](https://www.g2.com/products/sikich/reviews)

Sikich offers a formula of professional services uniquely crafted to address your business’s challenges and opportunities. Our comprehensive skillsets, obtained over decades of experience as entrepreneurs, business owners and industry innovators, allow us to provide insights and transformative services to help strengthen every dimension of your business.

**Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 10

#### Who Is the Company Behind Sikich?

- **Seller:** [Sikich](https://www.g2.com/sellers/sikich)
- **Year Founded:** 1982
- **HQ Location:** Chicago, Illinois
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=213724be0480ee2eb0e38b77793214af4ab18a05676e1ae2625fb8352186753f&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fsikich%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
2,311 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Company Size:** 40% Medium, 40% Small

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Sikich?

**["Great service, thorough and clear scoping objectives"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sikich-review-8533346)**

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

_— Scott H._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sikich-review-8533346)

**["Outstanding Professional Services Agency"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sikich-review-8360276)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Perena M._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/sikich-review-8360276)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Sikich?

- [What is Sikich used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-sikich-used-for)

### [Ernst & Young](https://www.g2.com/products/ernst-young/reviews)

One of the world's leading professional services organizations, helps companies across the globe to identify and capitalize on business opportunities.

**Average Rating:** 4.1/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 20

#### Who Is the Company Behind Ernst & Young?

- **Seller:** [Ernst & Young (E&Y)](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ernst-young-e-y)
- **Year Founded:** 1989
- **HQ Location:** London
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=340d34cb6814593cb6be46462017d68a16b372058fc6a3ec69bc30c2ac8b9ee0&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fernstandyoung&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
403,177 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Company Size:** 70% Large, 40% Medium

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Ernst & Young?

**["Advisory and Implementation"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ernst-young-review-11769267)**

**Rating:** 4.0/5.0 stars

_— Verified User in Consulting_

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ernst-young-review-11769267)

**["Good company to work with for rich experience"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ernst-young-review-10658599)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Aavinashh L._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/ernst-young-review-10658599)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Ernst & Young?

- [Who owns EY India?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/who-owns-ey-india)
- [Why is EY famous?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/why-is-ey-famous)
- [What is Max Ernst known for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-max-ernst-known-for)
- [What is Ernst short for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-ernst-short-for)

### [Cornerstone Solutions](https://www.g2.com/products/cornerstone-solutions/reviews)

Cornerstone Solutions provides services for successful construction and real estate firms since 1985.

#### Who Is the Company Behind Cornerstone Solutions?

- **Seller:** [Cornerstone Solutions](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cornerstone-solutions)
- **HQ Location:** Chicago, IL
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=7886df2ed926834e5eb248c77dcfa8e5c815d3ab1f0fe3132ced0dba45868834&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2FNo-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
1 employees on LinkedIn®

### [Crowe](https://www.g2.com/products/crowe/reviews)

Crowe is a public accounting, consulting, and technology firm that connecting deep industry and specialized knowledge with innovative technology to create value for clients with integrity and objectivity,by listening to their businesses, trends in their industries, and the challenges they face.

**Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 1

#### Who Is the Company Behind Crowe?

- **Seller:** [Crowe](https://www.g2.com/sellers/crowe)
- **HQ Location:** Chicago, Illinois, United States
- **Twitter:** @CroweCRM  
1,769 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=92f2cd55717d163cd9e4b2bc7d17d92638b0e1fbb25b76fb0387e82a9c14d42a&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fcrowe%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
9,167 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Company Size:** 100% Small

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Crowe?

**["AbleBridge - Crowe Are Great Partners "](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/crowe-review-223833)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Larry G._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/crowe-review-223833)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Crowe?

- [What is Crowe used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/crowe-what-is-crowe-used-for)
- [What is Crowe used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-crowe-used-for)

### [Grant Thornton](https://www.g2.com/products/grant-thornton/reviews)

Grant Thornton is a firm that offers three main service including Audit/Assurance, Tax and Advisory to help organizations pursue growth holistically whether through revenue improvement, leadership, mission fulfillment, or innovation.

**Average Rating:** 4.8/5.0

**Total Reviews:** 3

#### Who Is the Company Behind Grant Thornton?

- **Seller:** [Grant Thornton](https://www.g2.com/sellers/grant-thornton)
- **Year Founded:** 1924
- **HQ Location:** Chicago, Illinois, United States
- **Twitter:** @ThorntonBenefit  
373 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=b6e5e65f1df963cfe91bd14ee1afb9a6588d1f66fc33ce7833dbe4b1f05e48a4&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fgrant-thornton-us&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
11,671 employees on LinkedIn®

#### Who Uses This Product?

- **Company Size:** 100% Large

#### What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Grant Thornton?

**["Grant Thornton are trusted advisors whom help us implement industry leading solutions"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/grant-thornton-review-9754512)**

**Rating:** 4.5/5.0 stars

_— Joanthan F._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/grant-thornton-review-9754512)

**["Indeed Big 5 !"](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/grant-thornton-review-7498002)**

**Rating:** 5.0/5.0 stars

_— Prasad B._

[Read full review](https://www.g2.com/survey_responses/grant-thornton-review-7498002)

#### What Are G2 Users Discussing About Grant Thornton?

- [What is Grant Thornton used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-grant-thornton-used-for)

### [Marcum LLP](https://www.g2.com/products/marcum-llp/reviews)

Marcum LLP is one of the largest independent public accounting and advisory services firms in the nation, with offices in major business markets throughout the U.S., as well as Grand Cayman, China and Ireland.

#### Who Is the Company Behind Marcum LLP?

- **Seller:** [Marcum](https://www.g2.com/sellers/marcum)
- **Year Founded:** 1951
- **HQ Location:** New York, New York, United States
- **Twitter:** @MarcumLLP  
8,623 Twitter followers
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=27c3e90d7423d2e1f9575410aeae6c7a904917f6aaaeb7614ce57e9f8bf2269c&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2F21984&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
1,424 employees on LinkedIn®

### [WeiserMazars LLP](https://www.g2.com/products/weisermazars-llp/reviews)

WeiserMazars specializes in accounting, tax and advisory with 700 professionals in 10+ US offices.

#### Who Is the Company Behind WeiserMazars LLP?

- **Seller:** [WeiserMazars](https://www.g2.com/sellers/weisermazars)
- **HQ Location:** New York, NY
- **LinkedIn® Page:** [www.linkedin.com](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bsource_type%5D=product_profile&secure%5Btoken%5D=7886df2ed926834e5eb248c77dcfa8e5c815d3ab1f0fe3132ced0dba45868834&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2FNo-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps&secure%5Burl_type%5D=linkedin_company_website)  
1 employees on LinkedIn®

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[Browse Accounting Firms Themes](/categories/accounting-firms/themes)

 ![Nathan Calabrese](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Nathan Calabrese")
NC

Researched and written by [Nathan Calabrese](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/nathan-calabrese)

Updated April 17, 2025

Strategic financial decisions in Chicago often begin with the right accounting partner. G2’s Research team has verified and ranked 9+ top-rated firms in Chicago, backed by authentic user reviews. These firms specialize in bookkeeping, [tax preparation](https://www.g2.com/categories/tax-services/locations/chicago-il-us), [financial consulting](https://www.g2.com/categories/financial-consulting/locations/chicago-il-us), and business advisory, helping businesses in Chicago, including startups in River North, professional service firms in The Loop, and growing companies in West Loop, stay financially organized and make informed decisions. Compare accounting firms based on real customer experiences, pricing, and service offerings to make an informed choice and find the right partner to support your financial goals in one of the nation’s top business and finance centers.

Show More

### Accounting Firms Topics

- [What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Accounting Firm?](#what-are-the-benefits-of-hiring-an-accounting-firm)
- [Why Chicago Businesses Need Specialized Support](#why-chicago-businesses-need-specialized-support)
- [What Accounting Services Do Chicago Firms Offer?](#what-accounting-services-do-chicago-firms-offer)
- [How to Choose the Right Accounting Firm Partner in Chicago](#how-to-choose-the-right-accounting-firm-partner-in-chicago)
- [How Much Do Accounting Services Cost in Chicago?](#how-much-do-accounting-services-cost-in-chicago)
- [Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring](#key-questions-to-ask-before-hiring)

[
### Accounting Firms Topics
Expand/Collapse ](#)
- [What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Accounting Firm?](#what-are-the-benefits-of-hiring-an-accounting-firm)
- [Why Chicago Businesses Need Specialized Support](#why-chicago-businesses-need-specialized-support)
- [What Accounting Services Do Chicago Firms Offer?](#what-accounting-services-do-chicago-firms-offer)
- [How to Choose the Right Accounting Firm Partner in Chicago](#how-to-choose-the-right-accounting-firm-partner-in-chicago)
- [How Much Do Accounting Services Cost in Chicago?](#how-much-do-accounting-services-cost-in-chicago)
- [Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring](#key-questions-to-ask-before-hiring)

## Learn More About Accounting Firms 

[Accounting firms](https://www.g2.com/categories/accounting-firms/locations/chicago-il-us) provide essential financial services that support the backbone of businesses across industries. From managing tax compliance and auditing to advising on complex financial decisions, these firms play a critical role in maintaining business integrity and fostering growth.

Businesses of all sizes, from startups seeking help with [bookkeeping](https://www.g2.com/categories/bookkeeping-services/locations/chicago-il-us) to large corporations requiring sophisticated [financial audits](https://www.g2.com/categories/auditing-services/locations/chicago-il-us), turn to accounting firms for expertise and regulatory guidance. Demand for accounting services continues to grow in Chicago, IL, as companies navigate evolving tax laws, increasing financial scrutiny, and the push toward digital transformation. This surge is particularly noticeable among small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs), which often lack in-house accounting capabilities but still face complex financial challenges.

### What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Accounting Firm?

1. **Expertise in** [Tax Compliance](https://www.g2.com/categories/tax-services/locations/chicago-il-us) **and Planning:** Chicago-based firms stay current with Illinois and federal tax codes. This helps clients avoid penalties while optimizing their tax liabilities. Proactive planning can also uncover credits and deductions for local regulations.
2. **Accurate Financial Reporting and Bookkeeping:** Reliable bookkeeping and reporting form the foundation of sound decision-making. Accounting firms deliver timely, accurate financial statements that support budgeting, forecasting, and investor relations.
3. **Time and Resource Efficiency:** Delegating accounting tasks to experts allows businesses to focus on core operations. This is especially valuable for SMEs that cannot justify a full in-house accounting team.
4. **Audit Readiness and Internal Controls:** Firms ensure businesses are well-prepared for audits and implement internal controls to detect fraud or inefficiencies early. This reduces risk and enhances trust with stakeholders.
5. **Strategic Business Advisory:** Beyond compliance, many accounting firms offer strategic consulting. Services may include cash flow optimization, M&A guidance, and succession planning, all of which are vital for growing firms.
6. **Technology Integration:** Modern firms help businesses implement accounting software, automate workflows, and ensure secure digital recordkeeping. These capabilities are essential in today’s tech-driven environment.
7. **Scalability of Services:** As a company grows, its financial complexity increases. Accounting firms offer scalable services that adapt to evolving needs, without requiring a major overhaul of internal systems.

### Why Chicago Businesses Need Specialized Support

Chicago's diverse economic landscape, including financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, demands accountants with both geographic and industry-specific expertise. Local firms understand the nuances of Illinois tax regulations, Cook County filings, and Chicago-specific licensing requirements. This gives clients an edge in regulatory compliance.

Chicago’s dynamic real estate and nonprofit sectors also require specialized accounting knowledge. Real estate businesses often deal with complex depreciation and 1031 exchanges. Nonprofit organizations must adhere to strict reporting and grant compliance standards. Firms with localized experience are better equipped to serve these unique verticals.

Proximity also facilitates stronger client relationships. On-site visits, faster communication, and familiarity with the local business environment improve service quality and responsiveness.

### What Accounting Services Do Chicago Firms Offer?

Accounting firms in Chicago typically offer services that fall into two main categories:

#### Core Services

- **Bookkeeping and Payroll -** Daily transaction recording, bank reconciliations, and payroll processing.
- **Tax Preparation and Filing -** Federal, state, and local tax returns for individuals, corporations, and partnerships.
- **Audit and Assurance -** Internal and external audit services for regulatory compliance or investor confidence.
- **Financial Statement Preparation -** GAAP-compliant balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports.

#### Advanced and Strategic Offerings

- **Forensic Accounting -** Investigation of financial discrepancies and fraud detection.
- **Business Valuation -** Independent valuation reports for mergers, acquisitions, or legal disputes.
- **Virtual CFO Services -** High-level financial oversight for businesses lacking an in-house executive.
- **ERP and Software Integration -** Advising on and implementing accounting systems like QuickBooks, NetSuite, or Xero.
- **Industry-Specific Advisory -** Tailored consulting for sectors such as healthcare, construction, and hospitality.

Many firms are also adopting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting support and cryptocurrency accounting. These offerings reflect the shift toward modern finance.

### How to Choose the Right Accounting Firm Partner in Chicago

Selecting an accounting partner is a strategic decision. Businesses should consider:

- **Industry Experience -** Choose firms with demonstrated experience in your specific sector. This ensures familiarity with compliance nuances and industry benchmarks.
- **Certifications and Designations -** Confirm that the firm employs Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), Enrolled Agents (EAs), or Chartered Accountants (CAs), depending on your needs.
- **Technology Compatibility -** Ensure the firm supports or integrates with your current software stack, such as QuickBooks, SAP, or Sage. A firm’s tech savviness can streamline collaboration and reporting.
- **Scalability and Flexibility -** Look for partners who can scale with your business growth and offer flexible contract models, such as project-based or retainer-based engagements.
- **Transparency in Pricing and Processes -** Reputable firms provide detailed engagement letters outlining deliverables, timelines, and pricing. This reduces the chance of unexpected costs.
- **Onboarding Process -** Evaluate how a firm transitions new clients. Efficient onboarding with a structured timeline and dedicated team indicates a well-managed practice.
- **Local vs. National Coverage -** Decide whether a Chicago-based boutique firm or a national network with a local office is a better cultural and operational fit.

### How Much Do Accounting Services Cost in Chicago?

Pricing can vary significantly based on the scope of services, the size of the business, and the complexity of financial needs. For small to mid-sized businesses in Chicago, here is a general range:

1. **Basic Bookkeeping:** $50 to $150 per hour or $500 to $2,000 per month.
2. **Tax Preparation (Business):** $750 to $3,000 or more per return
3. **Audit Services:** $5,000 to $20,000 or more
4. **Virtual CFO or Advisory Services:** $150 to $400 per hour or $2,000 to $10,000 per month
5. **Project-Based Consulting:** Varies based on engagement scope

_Note: Bundled service packages often offer better value than selecting individual services. Firms may also offer discounted rates for nonprofits or long-term contracts. The list above is the typical or estimated cost for these services._

### Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Before finalizing a partnership, businesses should ask:

1. **What industries do you specialize in, and can you provide relevant references?**
2. This helps confirm industry fit and expertise.
3. **Who will be managing our account, and what are their credentials?**
4. Clarify the level of seniority and specialization on your team.
5. **How do you approach onboarding and communication?**
6. Look for firms with structured processes and responsive service.
7. **What accounting platforms and software do you support?**
8. Make sure they are compatible with your existing tools.
9. **How do you stay current with changes in tax laws and financial regulations?**
10. Ensure the firm is proactive in maintaining compliance.
11. **What is included in your pricing model, and how are overages handled?**
12. Transparency here helps avoid billing surprises.
13. **Do you offer proactive advisory services, or is your work strictly compliance-focused?**
14. Understand whether the firm adds strategic value beyond core services.

Chicago businesses benefit most from accounting firms that offer both local insight and broad expertise. Use G2’s marketplace to explore top-rated providers, compare offerings, and read verified reviews to make an informed and confident decision.