2017 RANKING & REVIEWS
TOP RANKING ACCOUNTING FIRMS IN CHICAGO, ILLINOIS


Finding the Top Accounting Firm in Chicago

Living in diverse and fast-paced Chicago, Illinois, is a dream come true for many. As a Chicagoan in search of the best accounting firm in Chicago, you have certainly worked hard to create a successful way of life for yourself. It would come as no surprise that managing your money and taxes is something you want professional assistance with.

There is a seemingly endless supply of accounting firms in Chicago who promise everything under the sun. But how do you know what exactly you need from an accountant in Chicago, and how do you know how to discern the good from the bad?

As you begin, you may ask yourself the following questions:

  • What is the difference between a chartered accountant and one that is not?
  • Do accounting firms in Chicago charge on a flat scale?
  • What Chicago accountant is right for my specific needs?
  • What Chicago CPA firms offer free consultations?
  • What Chicago CPA Firms are the best?

At AdvisoryHQ, we would love to help you answer these questions and more. We’ve created a comprehensive and rigid selection system that holistically puts each Chicago-based accounting firm to the test, and only those who pass at the top of their category will be compiled into a list of the top 11 accounting firms in and around Chicago, Illinois.

As you read on, you’ll learn about our exclusive, top-down methodology as well as the criteria that allowed each Chicago-based firm to rank high on our list. There is no one right accounting firm for everyone, but we are confident that within this list there is an accountant in Chicago that’s right for you.

Best Accounting Firms in Chicago, IL Red Award Emblem

Award Emblem: Top 11 Best Accounting Firms in Chicago, Illinois



AdvisoryHQ’s List of the Top 11 Best Accounting Firms in Chicago, Illinois

This list is sorted alphabetically (click any of the below names to go directly to the detailed review for that accounting firm).

Click here for 2016’s Top 10 Best Accounting Firms in Chicago,Illinois


Top 11 Best Accounting Firms in Chicago, Illinois| Brief Comparison

Top Accounting Firms in Chicago

Services

CDH

Mergers & Acquisitions, procedure manuals, VFOCUS,etc.

Coleman & Associates

W-2 Processing, IRAs, 529 Plans, etc.

Horwich Coleman Levin, LLC (HCL)

Quickbooks Advisory, litigation support, business valuation,etc.

Legacy Professionals LLP

Fraud investigation, claims testing, accounting, etc.

Miller Cooper & Co., LTD

Search services, tax advisory, M&A Services, etc.

Mueller

Risk and Controls, business consulting, financial planning, etc.

MPS|CPA

Inventory capitalization, cost accounting, cost reduction, etc.

NDH Group, LTD

Stock options planning, estate Planning, CFO solutions, etc.

Ostrow Reisin Berk & Abrams, LTD (ORBA)

Wealth management, state tax, auditing, etc.

Schuman Simon & Grodecki

Bookkeeping, budgeting support, outsourced controller services, etc.

Shepard Schwartz & Harris, LLP

Bankruptcy assistance, interim controller services, cash flow planning, etc.

Table: Top 11 Best Accounting Firms in Chicago | Above list is sorted alphabetically



AdvisoryHQ’s Selection Methodology

What methodology does AdvisoryHQ use in selecting and finalizing the credit cards, financial products, firms, services, and products that are ranked on its various top rated lists?

Please click here “AdvisoryHQ’s Ranking Methodologies” for a detailed review of AdvisoryHQ’s selection methodologies for ranking top rated credit cards, financial accounts, firms, products, and services.


Detailed Review – Top Ranking Best Accounting Firms in Chicago, Illinois

Below, please find the detailed review of each of the top Chicago accounting firms on our list of the top 11 accounting firms in Chicago We have  highlighted some of the factors that allowed these top accounting firms in Chicago to score so well in our selection ranking.

See Also: Best Accounting Firms in Phoenix, Arizona | Ranking & Review



All-in-One Change Management Tools

Top Rated Toolkit for Change Managers.

Get Your Change Management Tool Today...


CDH Review


CDH is an accounting, tax assurance, and business consulting firm with locations in Itasca and Chicago, Illinois, as well as Brookfield, Wisconsin. As a Moore Stephens member firm, CDH has access to limitless global resources. CDH has also made sure that it continues to be a relevant Chicago accounting firm by having members who speak over 12 different languages.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

Listed below are key factors that allowed CDH to rank as one of 2017’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois. 

Comprehensive Services

With CDH, you’ll have access to a full-range of marketing, HR, and IT services. Additionally, the firm will meet all of your business, tax, accounting, assurance, and advisory service needs as well. They truly are an all-inclusive provider.

Here’s an overview of service offerings:

Tax Services:

  • State and local tax
  • Succession planning
  • Tax planning and compliance
  • International tax
  • Valuations
  • Mergers and acquisitions

Assurance and Accounting:

  • Fraud and forensic services
  • Procedure manuals
  • Financial statement audits, reviews and compilations
  • Internal audit co-sourcing
  • Business consulting
  • Fiduciary training
  • J-SOX

Advisory:

  • Governance and risk advisory services
  • IT consulting
  • Market strategy
  • VFOCUS
  • Bookkeeping/cash flow analysis
  • Corporate training
  • Executive focus

Who They Serve

CDH proudly serves clients across many industries. They offer a one-stop experience with comprehensive solutions for each unique client situation.

CDH has diverse tax accountants of Chicago serving on their team in order to create a great working relationship with unique individuals and businesses. These accountants are trained in a vast array of services that this Chicago CPA has made available to their clients.

Service areas include:

  • International Business: Conducting business on a global scale can be intimidating. Luckily, CDH has over 20 years of international experience. Clients include U.S. subsidiaries of foreign-owned companies.
  • Manufacturing and Distribution: Through a collaborative effort with partnering global accounting, tax, and consulting experts, CDH can offer efficient and market-reflective management strategies to manufacturers and distributors.
  • Professional Services: Financial optimization for professional clients includes tax planning services, back office operations, financial analysis, performance management, and leadership development.

Women LEAD

CDH has launched a company-wide initiative which seeks to attract, advance, and retain women in professional fields who make positive changes in the workforce. The program supports both women and men through leadership, empowerment, and development. CDH believes that their Chicago accountants deserve equal presence, influence, and impact no matter their gender.

Professional Affiliations

CDH has relationship with a variety of affiliates worldwide and over two decades of experience in leading international  success. This CPA based in Chicago is also a member of the Moore Stephens International network. This allows them to have an immense number of regional and global resources at hand at all times.



Coleman & Associates Review


Located right in Chicago, Illinois, Coleman & Associates offers a fully integrated approach to accounting, tax, and financial services. They understand the complex needs of small-to-medium sized and closely held businesses. This Chicago CPA firm prides itself on it’s one-on-one approach to doing business.

Additionally, they are a member of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) as well as the Illinois CPA Society.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

Below are key factors that enabled Coleman & Associates to be rated as one of 2017’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois.

A Small but Experienced Team

The highly experienced staff of about 10 at Coleman & Associates works directly with each client, providing customized services at every stage. The team is well-accredited, and each Chicago accountant, and staff member come ready to share his or her own expert knowledge.

Tax Preparation & Planning

Coleman & Associates are expertly positioned to prepare returns for businesses, estates, individuals, and trusts. Through diligent service, they maintain current knowledge for all tax laws and regulations, allowing you the opportunity to reduce your tax burden as you build toward a successful future.

Accounting

Coleman & Associates stand ready to develop essential strategies that support all aspects of your growing business. Accurate and timely information, along with careful analysis and efficient operation, drive you to further success. This is one of the many reasosns that Coleman & Associates is a top CPA firm in Chicago.

Financial Statement Preparation

Whether you are in need of a financial statement audit, a simple review, or any variety of tailored financial statement preparations, Coleman & Associates not only offer an objective view into your situation, they regularly participate in the Illinois CPA Society’s Peer Review Program.

Remote CFO

Don’t allow the tedious nuances of running a business keep you from the aspects that truly require your attention. Coleman & Associates will handle your bookkeeping through the latest online technology. Also, with a few simple clicks, you’ll have access to all of your data, anytime you need it.

Full-Service Payroll

Payroll is another time-consuming, tedious task that can be outsourced to alleviate you of such a burden. Coleman & Associates offer expert in-house payroll services which include the following:

  • W-2 processing
  • Check processing and printing
  • Direct deposit
  • Annual payroll tax reporting

Financial Consulting Services

Whether on an individual or corporate level, creating long-term financial goals is essential to a successful financial plan. As a client, you’ll have the opportunity to take advantage of Coleman & Associates’ financial consulting services including:

Retirement Plans and Planning:

  • SIMPLE plans
  • SEPs
  • IRAs
  • 401(k) plans
  • Pension/profit sharing plans

Estate Planning:

  • Business ownership succession
  • Fee-based asset management services
  • Mutual funds

Insurance:

  • Disability insurance
  • Fixed and variable life insurance
  • Long-term care insurance
  • Fixed and variable annuities

Education Planning:

  • Coverdell Education IRAs 
  • 529 plans

Don’t Miss: Best Accounting Firms in Indianapolis, IN



Horwich Coleman Levin, LLC (HCL) Review


Horwich Coleman Levin, LLC, better known as HCL, is an accounting, tax, and auditory firm located in Chicago, Illinois. HCL believes that people are the bottom line–not dollars. With this mindset, they offer clients value-driven services, and they always go the extra mile.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

Below are key factors that enabled HCL to rank as one of 2017’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois.

Comprehensive Services

  • Tax
  • Accounting and controllership
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
  • Peer review
  • Information technology
  • Audit and assurance
  • QuickBooks advisory
  • Business valuation
  • Family (home) office
  • Estate and trusts
  • Forensic accounting and litigation support

A Strong Leadership Team

The leadership team at HCL may be small (staffing roughly seven individuals), but each brings an integral mix of personal and professional achievements that add value and expertise to the firm as a whole. From CPAs of Chicago with decades of accounting experience to licensed attorneys who maintain several organizational memberships, there is certainly no lacking of strength here.

Acknowledgments and Associations

Over the years, HCL has accrued a variety of acknowledgements, and they hold several relationships with professional associations. This includes membership with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board and Accounting Now’s award for Best Accounting Firms to Work for 2014, 2015, and 2016. These acknowledgments and memberships attest to the self-driven dedication of the team to be the best.

Built on Values

The firm wouldn’t be where it is today without the strong core values that have guided them here. HCL measures success by the result of working with each client.

Their core values are:

  • Accountability: HCL serves clients in a practical and timely manner. They stand accountable to you. After all, your success is their success.
  • Excellence: HCL always delivers the highest quality service possible, without exception. If something doesn’t go as planned, they will find a way to fix it.
  • Integrity: HCL believes in an unwavering dedication to industry rules and regulations. Furthermore, they believe in earning your trust and apply honesty and integrity in everything they do.
  • Commitment: Building long-lasting relationships is the goal. Through quality service and honest advice, that’s exactly what HCL intends to do.

AISP Sponsor

In 2014, HCL joined just five other CPA firms as sponsors for the Accounting Intern Scholarship Program (AISP). Through the program, the firm offers newly graduated accounting students the opportunity to gain real world experience from a successful leader in the industry.  The rotation program last for eight weeks, at the end of which period students are considered for permanent placement.



Legacy Professionals LLP Review


Legacy Professionals LLP is an accounting, tax and auditory firm with locations in Chicago, IL, Indiana, IN, and Minneapolis, MN. Legacy Professionals LLP wishes to demonstrate their ongoing commitment to their employees, clients, and their community. 

Legacy Professionals LLP - accounting firms in chicago

Image Source: Best Accounting Firms in Chicago

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

Below are key factors that enabled Legacy Professionals LLP to rank as one of 2017’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois.

Core Values

Legacy Professionals LLP prides themselves on having several core values that drive their team to provide quality service to their clients. 

Some of these core values include:

  • Loyalty: Legacy is a firm that you can trust. They provide unprecedented support to each other as well as their clients, in order to build a strong working relationship. Legacy strives to be continually dependable and understanding to their clients needs.
  • Ethical: Legacy Professionals LLP believes in standing behind their word and doing the right thing. They expect their team as well as their clients to uphold this ideal as well.
  • Accountable: Legacy is a firm that you can count on whether it be for deadlines, deliverables, or questions. Legacy will be their for their clients specific needs and do so in a timely fashion.

Living the Legacy

Legacy Professionals LLP takes it’s name seriously, the firms traditions, core values, and principles of its original founders have been passed down over the years. In fact, the firm is in its third generation of leadership. The professional staff is made up of partners and principals that have extensive knowledge and experience, some having over 35 years experience as accountants in Chicago.

Practice Areas

With decades of experience among their staff, Legacy serves a niche group of clients. Their knowledge and expertise allows them to wisely serve individuals and businesses offering best practices. 

The practice areas that Legacy Professionals LLP provides services to :

  • Employee Benefit Plans
  • Labor Organizations
  • Not-For-Profits
  • Governmental Entities
  • Commercial Entities

Variety of Services

Legacy Professionals LLP offers a wide variety of services within their practice areas. Their team works tirelessly to provide thorough satisfactory service to all of their clients. 

Below is a list of hilighted services that Legacy provides:

  • Tax Exempt Filings
  • Corporate Formation Analysis
  • Tax Planning 
  • Representation before Government Agencies
  • Fraud Investigation
  • Claims Testing
  • Accounting 
  • Payroll Compliance Audits

Legacy is even willing to go outside of the list of services they provide in order to serve an organization or client. By contacting your local Legacy  Professionals LLP office they can work with you on agreed upon procedures for the service you require.

Related: Best Accounting Firms in San Jose, CA




Miller Cooper & Co., LTD Review


Founded in 1919, Miller Cooper & Co., LTD is one of Chicago’s premier independent firms of certified public accountants and business consultants. Through their offices in Deerfield and Chicago, Illinois, they serve entrepreneurial clients, governmental entities, non-profit organizations, and middle-market businesses.

Miller Cooper offers clients a full-range of accounting, tax, financial consulting, technology, and employee benefits services. Today, they remain the twelfth largest accounting firm in the Chicago area.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

Below you will find some of the key factors that enabled Miller Cooper & Co., LTD to rank as one of 2017’’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois. 

Specialized Industry Sectors

Miller Cooper works with exceptionally skilled accountants, tax advisors, and consultants to maintain a deep knowledge of the current industry. Offering customized services further serves to bring a comprehensive viewpoint to the table. Their desire to stay relevant and up to date in the industry allows them to be one of the top CPA firms in Chicago.

 Let’s take a look at Miller Cooper’s specialized sectors:

  • Manufacturing & distribution
  • Construction
  • Technology/start-ups
  • Family office
  • Healthcare, bio, and pharma
  • Real estate
  • Non-profits
  • Dealerships and automotive
  • Private equity/venture capital
  • Government and school districts
  • Professional services

A Variety of Services

Thanks to almost 100 years of professional expertise in their field, Miller Cooper offers a full suite of custom-tailored services to match each of their clients’ needs.

The following is an example of services offered:

  • Consulting
  • Technology services
  • Audit and accounting
  • M&A services and due diligence
  • Business valuation
  • Tax advisory
  • Benefit plan administration
  • Search services
  • State and local tax services
  • Employee benefit plan audit
  • Estate, succession, and wealth planning
  • Outsourcing and bookkeeping
  • International services

A Global Alliance

Miller Cooper has earned global capabilities thanks to their affiliation with Nexia International, a network organization of over 24,000 professionals worldwide. Nexia operates in over 120 countries and has an aggregate annual revenue of over $3.1 billion. As an affiliate, Miller Cooper receives tremendous access to expert global and regional insight to better serve their clients.

Extensive Leadership

Miller Coopers offers clients a high level of customized services and one-on-one attention. They do this through a collaborative effort among their  extensive leadership team. Their 250+ skilled professionals strive to provide only the highest quality service to their clients.



Mueller Review


Mueller is a public accounting and business consulting firm with locations in Elgin and Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1968, they serve executives, corporations, business owners, and independent professionals within a wide range of industries. Clients can benefit from customized accounting, tax assurance, and management consulting services.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

Below are key factors that enabled Mueller to rank as a top 2017 accounting firm in and around Chicago, Illinois.

Firm Affiliation

Clients of Mueller can take advantage of comprehensive financial planning, investment advisory services, business planning, and insurance-based solutions through Mueller Financial Services, Inc., an affiliated entity of Mueller. The addition of Mueller Financial comes after years of listening to the in-depth needs of their clients.

Client Services

Through a blend of innovative approach and client dedication, the following is a list of services offered through Mueller:

  • Accounting services
  • Audit and assurance
  • Financial planning
  • Business valuation and litigation support
  • Tax services
  • Risk and controls
  • Business consulting and advisory

Additional financial services can be obtained through the above-mentioned Mueller Financial Services, Inc.

Industry Specialities

Mueller offers a variety of industry-specific services that give expert support to a variety of clients. Mueller is always on the cutting-edge of industry factors affecting their clients.

Industry specifications include:

  • Real estate
  • Construction
  • Healthcare
  • Transportation
  • Entertainment, media, and sports
  • Not-for-profits
  • Public companies
  • Technology
  • Professional services
  • Manufacturing and distribution

International Division

International business growth is an essential part of many client businesses. Mueller recognizes this need and is an affiliated member of CPAmerica International and Crowe Horwath International. Together, they work with banks, investors, and attorneys on a global scale.

Here’s a look at international services offered:

  • International tax consulting
  • Corporate and employee tax advice
  • Tax compliance
  • Tax structuring
  • Corporate registrations
  • VAT
  • Business valuations
  • Transfer pricing
  • Due diligence  
  • Audits (in accordance with U.S., GAAP, and IFRS standards)

Popular Article: Best Accounting Firms in Orlando, FL


Free Wealth & Finance Software - Get Yours Now ►


MPS|CPA Review


MPS|CPA is a leading partner with more than 2,500 companies operating through three office locations throughout Illinois, including Orland Park, Burr Ridge, and Chicago. Their services include accounting, personal, and business advisory.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

Below are key factors that enabled MPS|CPA to be rated as one of 2017’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois.

Niche Services

Over 60 professionals make up the body of MPS, and all are expertly trained to assist in specialty services such as:

  • Small businesses
  • Retail industry
  • Auto dealership
  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Professional services
  • Not-for-profit

Business Management Consulting

MPS offers a wealth of knowledge when it comes to helping clients appropriately manage their businesses. With an expert edge in taxation issues, they will help you pinpoint areas of your business that are affecting your profitability in the following ways:

  • Profit and Value Enhancement: MPS works with a long-term focus, meaning they aim to build your business to be as profitable as possible for ultimate sale.
  • Mergers and Acquisitions: Whether you are buying or selling, the process is quite daunting. MPS is an expert at making transitions smooth.
  • Business Succession Planning: A solid background will make transitioning your business to your successor much easier. Through expert tax and financial planning, MPS will guide you.

Manufacturing Accounting Services

MPS takes a holistic approach to assess their clients’ markets and stay ahead of negative impacts. They offer manufacturing and distribution clients assistance in the some of the following areas:

  • Cost reduction
  • Inventory capitalization
  • Cash flow management
  • Cost accounting
  • Financial projections and operating budgets
  • Business planning and investment decisions

Guidance for Non-Profits

MPS employs a dedicated team who focuses on the non-profit sector. Assistance is provided through grant-specific audits, financial statements, form preparation, and more.

Not-for-Profit clients include:

  • Private schools
  • Foundations
  • Voluntary health and welfare organizations
  • Professional trade and membership organizations
  • Cultural and performing arts organizations

Free Consultation

MPS would be happy to sit down with you and give you an idea of how their services can benefit you and your organization.  You can either call them personally or fill out a contact form on their website. Either way, this is always a great benefit to anyone looking to start a relationship with an accountant.


Free Budgeting Software for AdvisoryHQ Readers - Get It Now!


NDH Group, LTD Review


NDH Group, LTD was founded in 2003 with the goal of providing accounting, tax, and accounting technology services to a sophisticated array of business and individual clients. Their office is located right in busy Chicago, Illinois.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

Below are key factors that enabled NDH Group, LTD to be rated one of this year’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago.

Services for Individuals

Clients who may fall into this category include executives, business owners, and multi-generational families. Basic services include:

  • Stock options planning
  • Gift and trust return preparation
  • Family office support
  • Tax preparation, planning, and consulting
  • Business succession and estate planning

Services for Businesses

Whether you are just starting your business or are expanding for the tenth time, NDH offers the following client services:

  • Tax preparation, planning, and consulting
  • Accounting system training and implementation
  • CFO and accounting solutions
  • Start-up business services

Accounting Solutions

Financial reporting and accounting data is an essential part of a successful business. However, the caveat to this is that business owners rarely have time to oversee every detail, and oftentimes, things begin to slip through the cracks. This is where NDH can take the burden off your shoulders. They can help in the following ways:

  • CFO Solutions: Meeting the needs of clients is simplified through a “strategic six” approach that utilizes quick response, intelligent data access, answers to investors, forecast use, cost containment, and knowing the drivers of growth.
  • Back-Office Accounting: Accounting is a multi-faceted tool, and accuracy is critical. NDH offers both in-house and outsourced accounting services through multiple levels of highly expert staff.
  • Start-Up Business Services: Getting started is an intensive process with a lot of unknowns. Regardless of where you are in the process, NDH can help you apply many of the same principles they used themselves to get to where they are. This can include full back-office accounting, selecting banking and credit card processing providers, payroll, and development of critical financial models.

Tax Solutions

NDH is an expert tax advisor. They continually strive to minimize taxes and plan carefully. Clients can expect high-quality service with a small firm fee-structure.

Specialty areas of tax include:

  • Individual taxes
  • Business taxes
  • Family office support
  • Estate, gift, and trust taxes
  • Stock option planning

Accounting Technology

NDH prides themselves in their technologically advanced accounting strategies. Through the use of Cloud Accounting Software from  Intacct and NetSuite, clients will be astonished at the benefits they can receive from making the switch. Making technologically advanced changes doesn’t happen overnight, but NDH has all the tools and know-how to help you ease into an advanced way of doing business.


Free Wealth Management for AdvisoryHQ Readers


Ostrow Reisin Berk & Abrams, LTD (ORBA) Review


Ostrow Reisin Berk & Abrams, LTD (ORBA) is a Chicago-based accounting firm founded in 1977. They offer comprehensive accounting, audit, and tax solutions to a variety of individuals, middle-market companies, not-for-profit organizations, trusts and estates, and qualified retirement plans.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

The following is a list of key factors that enabled Ostrow Reisin Berk & Abrams, LTD to rank as one of 2017’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois.

Custom-Tailored Services

No two clients will be treated the same, and that’s a good thing. ORBA takes a customized approach to each client, offering a suite of customizable services backed by over 30 years of experience.

The following is a brief overview of some of these services:

  • Audit services
  • Wealth management services
  • Accounting and advisory services
  • Employee benefit plans services
  • Litigation support services
  • State and local tax services

Key Specialties

Each industry sector comes with its own unique set of variables and challenges. With expert knowledge at hand, ORBA specializes in the following industries:

  • Dental groups
  • Broker/dealers
  • Retail
  • Not-for-profit groups
  • Law firms and lawyers groups
  • Restaurant groups
  • Marine
  • Real estate groups
  • Construction
  • Advertising agencies/communication firms
  • Private equity and venture capital firms
  • Manufacturing and distribution groups
  • Health care groups
  • Technology firms
  • Professional services

Sustainability Policy

It’s always nice to see a firm committed to reducing their impact on our world. ORBA implements sustainable practices in their day-to-day operations through the creation of their Sustainability Committee.

The following are just some of the ways ORBA works to reduce their impact:

  • Reducing paper consumption and working toward a paperless office.
  • Implementing computerized file storage, further reducing the need for paper.
  • Installing energy-efficient and motion-sensing lighting throughout the office.
  • Installing water filters to eliminate consumption of bottled water.
  • Recycling paper waste, computers, printers, toner cartridges, and more.

Free Money Management Software


Schuman Simon & Grodecki, LTD Review


Schuman Simon & Grodecki LTD has been one of the leading CPA firms in Chicago since 1923. This Chicago accounting firm understands being cost-conscious and puts their expertise to work to provide their clients with a great return-on-investment.

Not located in Chicago? No problem, Schuman Simon & Grodecki travels across the U.S. for client meetings.

Key Factors that Allowed This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm

The following is a list of key factors that enabled Schuman Simon & Grodecki, LTD to rank as one of 2017’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois. 

Rich History

Schuman Simon & Grodecki, LTD has been in business for over 90 years as a Chicago accounting firm. Over the years, the firm has evolved and taken on more tax accountants in Chicago with various backgrounds and areas of expertise. For years this firm’s members have been apart of the American Institute of CPAS, Illinois Society of CPAs and the Private Companies section of the AICPA.

Yale G. Simon has been a practicing Chicago CPA for over 50 years. In 1975, Simon became a partner of the firm and has continued to watch it grow ever since. Yale is one of the leaders of the small firm and has a vast knowledge of various tax services that help aid their Chicago clients.

Mission Statement

Schuman Simon & Grodecki, LTD make promises to their clients through their mission statement. Through this they want to build trust and take accountability for their services. They also want to ensure that services rendered are done at a reasonable cost, while still achieving strong results.

Schuman Simon & Grodecki want the follwing results for their clients:

  • To be in compliance with all governmental taxing bodies
  • To have good working order of financial records
  • Use various strategies to minimize taxes (discussed with the client prior to implementation)
  • Prepare financial statements to be discussed with the individual, a lender, or a third party
  • Work to develop a plan for the future

As esteemed CPAs of Chicago the Schuman Simon & Grodecki firm are dedicated to this pledge for each and every client. They also remain available to the client in order to properly respond to their unique needs.

Practice Areas/ Services

Schuman Simon & Grodecki offer a diverse number of services as a top accounting firm in Chicago. Their firm members have profiles on their site that summarizes their areas of expertise as well as personal information. This is advantageous to clients so that they can choose the Chicago CPA best fit for them or their business.

Some of these practice areas include:

  • Accounting & Assurance
  • Bookkeeping
  • IRS practice and procedure
  • Estates and trusts

Schuman Simon & Grodecki, LTD want their clients to realize their financial goals and want to provide effective financial advice and services  in order to help them do so.

Read More: Best Accounting Firms in San Francisco, California



Shepard Schwartz & Harris LLP Review


Shepard Schwartz & Harris LLP has stood as a vital asset to the Chicago business community for decades. Founded in 1935, they offer accounting and business advisory services to privately-held businesses, high-net-worth families and individuals, as well as not-for-profit organizations.

Key Factors that Enabled This Firm to Rank as a Top 2017 Accounting Firm in Chicago

Below are key factors that enabled Shepard Schwartz & Harris LLP to be rated one of 2017’s top 11 accounting firms in Chicago, Illinois.

Services to Meet Your Needs

The team at Shepard Schwartz & Harris LLP is more than a group of accountants; they are a comprehensive entity that utilizes a breadth of knowledge and experience to assist both private and business clients in the many challenges they may face.

Let’s take a look at each category of services and what they entail:

Auditing and Accounting:

  • Audit, review, and compilation of statements
  • Bankruptcy assistance
  • Cash flow preparation/planning
  • Cost certifications
  • External tenant sales
  • Interim controller services
  • Budgeting and cash planning
  • Trust accounting
  • Management advisory services

Tax Services:

  • State income tax management
  • Business income tax planning
  • Buy-sell agreement structures
  • US tax compliance for foreign investors
  • Personal income tax planning
  • Estate, gift, and trust tax returns and planning
  • Stock option planning
  • Wealth transfer planning
  • Donor reporting consulting
  • UBIT planning

Business Advisory:

  • Business resizing and relocation
  • Information flow
  • Security
  • Due diligence for acquisitions
  • Third party assessments
  • Valuation and transaction advisory
  • Analysis of business proposals
  • Fraud investigation and evaluation
  • Litigation support and expert testimony

Family Office Services:

  • Personal income tax planning
  • Charitable giving planning
  • Tax liability protection planning
  • Audit, review, and compilation of personal data
  • Trust accounting
  • Executive compensation tax analysis
  • Retirement funding review
  • Comprehensive financial planning
  • Wealth transfer services
  • Estate settlement support

Specialized Industries

A diverse array of needs and decades of experience allow Shepard Schwartz & Harris LLP to custom-tailor services for a variety of clients, including:

  • Hospitality industry
  • Real estate & construction
  • Not-for-profit organizations
  • Professional services
  • Manufacturing and distribution

Core Values

Whether the issue at hand is guiding a new client through the complexities of their financial situation or advising corporations on routine matters, Shepard Schwartz & Harris LLP acts through a set of core values they hold at the center of all they do:

  • Ingenuity
  • Integrity
  • Reliability


Conclusion – Top 11 Accounting Firms in Chicago, Illinois

As you’ve reached the end of our report on the top 11 accounting firms in and around Chicago, Illinois, you’ve had the chance to get to know some of the brightest and most innovative accounting firms in the Chicago area. As you weigh the details of the listed accounting firms in Chicago, you’ll begin to find that your specific situation may be better suited to certain firms over others.

For example, are you seeking a top accounting firm in Chicago for your own personal tax and accounting needs? Are you a business owner seeking professional advice? Are you part of a global corporation, ready to see where all your success can lead you next?

These defining terms can help you as you make your decisions. Whether you are an expert business person or just an everyday, hard-working individual, one of the Chicago-based accounting firms on our list is certain to give you the direction and support you need.

As always, if one of the accounting firms you have your eye on offers a free consultation, take advantage of this service! It’s a great opportunity to get a first-hand feel for how a relationship with that particular accounting firm in Chicago will go.

If your firm of choice doesn’t extend this invitation, most are willing to take a brief phone call regardless, so write down your most pressing questions and step confidently in the direction you want to go.

Related: Best Accounting Firms in San Diego, CA



AdvisoryHQ (AHQ) Disclaimer:

Reasonable efforts have been made by AdvisoryHQ to present accurate information, however all info is presented without warranty. Review AdvisoryHQ’s Terms for details. Also review each firm’s site for the most updated data, rates and info.

Note: Firms and products, including the one(s) reviewed above, may be AdvisoryHQ's affiliates. Click to view AdvisoryHQ's advertiser disclosures.