Recent Updates

2010 is a year of much uncertainty. All of the provisions of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001, along with a long list of other tax provisions are due to expire on December 31, 2010. There is little guidance at this point on whether Congress will extend some or any of the provisions. Not knowing what the Congress will ultimately decide causes tremendous uncertainty for taxpayers and their advisors.

For the rest of this entry and more news, visit my Recent Updates page.

My business: Ethnea Ferguson, CPA Inc., is a certified public accounting practice providing an array of quality financial services on a very personal basis to closely-held businesses and their owners. I work with companies who require effective accounting and tax services and offer consultation in business planning. Additionally, I prepare individual income tax returns and consult with individuals on their financial situation.

I tell people that there are no services that I provide, that cannot be provided by other CPA firms. What distinguishes me is the close personal manner and due diligence with which I provide those services. Clients' financial circumstances are quite a personal and private matter and I strive to provide a comfortable setting where clients do not feel intimidated to ask questions on issues impacting personal and business situations. I don't charge fees for phone consultations; I visit with my clients on a regular basis and I welcome clients to stop by my office anytime with any concerns. With increasing government regulation requiring more forms and creating new and creative penalties, I offer my clients a reliable resource for dealing effectively (and inexpensively) with the increasing complexity of those regulations. I solve problems for my clients and become a trusted friend with whom they enjoy working.

In addition to solving problems, my role involves providing high-quality tax and financial planning for businesses and individual clients. My task, as such, goes beyond the mere computation of net income or tax liabilities. I believe my clients should thoroughly understand their financial situation. For example, business owners should clearly understand why they are or aren't earning as much as they should be; why cash flow is not the same as net income; why an increase in revenue may not necessarily translate into a bigger bottom line. For my individual clients, I help them understand in November or December what their income tax returns will look like the following April. Over the years, I've learned my client's simply don't like financial surprises and I work hard to prevent such surprises from happening.

Finally, I do not sell any investment instruments or products. My clients can depend on me for objective, knowledgeable investment advice.

I welcome the opportunity to develop new associations with successful individuals and businesses. If I sound like an accountant with whom you would like to work, please feel free to give me a call 440-526-8400.

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What is a CPA?

A certified public accountant is an independent professional -- comparable to a physician or an attorney--who offers accounting services to clients for a fee.

The CPA certificate is a license to practice granted by the state on the basis of a rigorous examination, specific educational requirements and the evidence of a number of years of work experience in the field. Once certified, a CPA must adhere to certain other requirements in order to maintain that license. In Ohio, CPAs are required to attend 40 hrs. of continuing education per year to maintain their license.