Exploring CPA Firm Acquisitions via Alternative Practice Structure (APS/MSO)

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February 05, 2026

by a searcher from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management in Chicago, IL, USA

I’m looking at tax and bookkeeping businesses but, since I’m not a CPA, I’m planning to use an Alternative Practice Structure (APS)—similar to how MSOs work in healthcare. Has anyone here done this? I’m trying to get a realistic sense of the "hidden" costs. Beyond the purchase price, what should I budget for the upfront legal/structural setup and the ongoing overhead of keeping the attest and non-attest sides separate? Any lessons learned on the "two-entity" management headache would be much appreciated!
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Reply by a professional
in Austin, TX, USA
Ryan please reach out to me at redacted I have bought and sold Accounting and management consulting firms, I currently own one. Happy to talk to you about anything that supports you.
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Reply by an investor
in Charleston, SC, USA
Can't shake the idea of rolling up the fragmented ethnic beauty supply store industry. If any one know of a good entry point ( platform) or owner with multiple stores, please let me know.
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