Buy a CPA firm WITHOUT being one

I've had a lot of questions on this. So I'll just give you the process and how it looks: Most people shut down the idea of buying an accounting firm because they think they can’t buy a CPA firm without being a CPA. That’s just not true. Here’s the exact blueprint: Step 1: Find the right firm and get in the door Most non-CPAs hit a wall here. They either can’t find a serious seller or get ignored when they do. If you need help with that, message me. Step 2: Build trust This is where most people lose the deal. The seller has to believe their staff and clients will be taken care of. It's vital that you position yourself in a way that the seller feels confident handing you the keys. Step 3: Drop CPA from the name You can’t legally keep CPA in the name unless CPAs own at least 51 percent. So you have to drop it. Step 4: No attestation services This means no audits, reviews, or comps. But honestly, this is usually less than 5% of most CPA firm’s revenue. Want to know a secret? I’m a CPA and I don’t offer audits services anyway. It sucks. Between the cost of E&O insurance and peer reviews, I’m out. This would put you in compliance. But here's a little extra flavor for you... *Bonus* I like to keep the same firm name. But obviously, we have to drop CPA. So let’s say the firm name is John Smith, CPA. In this instance, I would do something like John Smith and Associates, or John Smith Bookkeeping and Tax. This allows for continuity with the client base and helps avoid client attrition as much as possible. You don’t need a license. You need a strategy. And now you have one.