DIY vs CPA
When Should You Hire a CPA vs. Doing It Yourself?
Knowing When It’s Time to Call in a Pro
Filing taxes or managing your books on your own might feel like a smart way to save money, until it isn’t. Many individuals and business owners start off with the do-it-yourself approach, using software or spreadsheets to keep everything organized. But as life and business grow more complex, so do financial decisions. That’s when mistakes become more likely, and stress starts to build.
If you’ve ever wondered whether hiring a CPA is worth it, you’re not alone. Most people don’t know exactly when that turning point happens. You might be juggling receipts, dealing with payroll, or trying to understand deductions that seem to change every year. And it’s easy to question whether it’s time to get outside help or if you can still manage it solo.
At Yeater & Associates, we’re CPAs, so we’re always looking to save money too. So we completely understand the hesitation when it comes to deciding between doing it yourself and hiring a professional. But what we’ve learned is that the right help at the right time often saves more money, time, and frustration in the long run. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the difference between going solo and working with a CPA, and how to know when it’s time to make the switch.
What We See from Clients Like You
Over the years, we’ve helped individuals, families, and businesses across Northern Colorado, from Greeley to Windsor and beyond. Most started with simple needs. But as those needs changed, such as starting a business, buying property, getting audited, or expanding operations, the numbers got more complicated.
What we often hear from clients is that they didn’t realize how much time they were spending trying to “figure it out.” And when they finally handed things off to us, they felt relief, clarity, and sometimes, the discovery of savings or deductions they didn’t know they qualified for. Whether it’s cleaning up a spreadsheet, catching up on years of overdue filings, or setting up systems for long-term success, our team has seen it all. That means we can step in and give you exactly what you need with no judgment, no confusion, and no guesswork. If you’re looking for an experienced CPA in Northern Colorado or a Greeley accounting firm you can trust, we’re here to help.
What to Consider When Deciding Between DIY and a CPA
If your financial situation is straightforward, doing it yourself can work well. For example, if you have one W-2 job, a single bank account, and no investments or side businesses, most tax software can walk you through the process. But once your situation grows even slightly more complex, a certified public accountant can provide value that software cannot.
Here are signs it may be time to call in a CPA:
- You own a business or are self-employed
- You’ve bought or sold real estate this year
- You’re dealing with multiple sources of income or investments
- You’ve received a notice from the IRS or are being audited
- You’re managing payroll or paying contractors
- You need help with long-term tax strategy, not just annual filing
A CPA brings more than just number-crunching. We provide insights, ask questions you may not think to ask, and help you make decisions that support your goals. And unlike software, we don’t disappear when the filing is done. We’re here for the questions, the planning, and the big-picture thinking. Whether you need help with tax preparation, bookkeeping services, or small business accounting, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
We’re Here to Help You Focus on What Matters
When you try to do everything on your own, financial tasks can become a drain on your energy. Clients often come to us when they realize that time spent trying to manage their books or taxes is time taken away from family, work, or rest. That’s when hiring a CPA stops being a cost and starts becoming an investment in peace of mind.
At Yeater & Associates, we believe that our job is to remove the burden, so you can get back to what matters most. We tailor our support to your situation, whether it’s a one-time consultation, ongoing accounting services in Northern Colorado, or help with long-term planning. Our goal is not just to do the work for you, but to help you understand it, so you feel confident and in control.
Not Sure Where to Start? Let’s Make It Simple
If you’re still unsure about whether now is the right time to hire a CPA, that’s okay. We’re here to make the decision easier, not harder.
Here’s what working with us looks like:
- Reach out for a consultation so we can learn about your situation and goals
- Get a clear, honest recommendation about what services would benefit you most
- Let us handle the details so you can focus on the rest of your life or business with confidence
