Today we’d like to introduce you to Alice Garner.
Hi Alice, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When I sat for the CPA exam in 1996, my goal was simple: to create the option to work from home so I could spend time with my family. Instead, my career led me into both accounting and auditing roles, where I gained extensive experience across a variety of industries. Over the years, people would occasionally say to me, “Why don’t you start your own tax business?” At the time, I appreciated the encouragement, but I wasn’t quite ready.
That changed one evening in November 2024. I was speaking with an acquaintance who had recently taken over his father’s business. With his IT background, he shared his vision for expanding and improving operations. As we talked, I found myself contributing ideas related to accounting systems. Something about that conversation sparked a realization: I was ready to build something of my own.
With tax season quickly approaching, I began laying the foundation for my business right away. I met with clients and prepared tax returns during evenings and weekends while continuing my employment. The response was encouraging, and after a successful tax season, I expanded my services to include bookkeeping and consulting support. By December 2025, confident in the growth and direction of the firm, I made the decision to resign from my position and dedicate myself fully to my practice.
Today, I operate my business from a dedicated office in my home. I meet with clients either in my home or at their location, depending on their needs. I primarily provide bookkeeping and tax preparation services, but I also offer internal audit support, QuickBooks consulting, and documentation management. I do not rely on traditional advertising; most of my clients come through referrals, word of mouth, and my online presence.
Building this business has allowed me to combine my professional experience with personal flexibility — the very goal that inspired me to pursue my CPA license decades ago. It is a privilege to serve my clients by managing the financial details so they can focus on what matters most to them.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the greatest challenges I have faced has been managing my website and SEO. In the past, I partnered with companies that made strong promises but did not deliver the results I was hoping for. I have recently selected a new vendor and am optimistic that this partnership will strengthen my online presence and better connect me with clients in the surrounding communities.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My professional background is a combination of accounting and internal auditing experience. I have served in a variety of roles, including accountant, bookkeeper, internal auditor and tax accountant.
My accounting experience includes managing accounts payable and receivable, performing bank and account reconciliations, preparing tax returns, and generating financial statements. As an internal auditor, I developed strong skills in drafting policies and procedures, overseeing projects, and conducting detailed financial and operational analyses.
In addition, I have advanced experience in developing and managing complex spreadsheets to support accurate reporting and informed decision-making.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I truly enjoy helping others. My goal is to ease the burden of financial and accounting responsibilities so my clients can focus on their businesses, their families, and what matters most to them.
Pricing:
- Tax Preparation $150 an hour
- Accounting and Bookkeeping $75 an hour
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.choicecpaservices.com
Image Credits
The stock photos were purchased from istock.com.
The self-image photo is an edited version of my original photo created by Headshots.com.
