Susan E. Polcari CPA in Chattanooga: Tax and Accounting Services for Individuals and Small Businesses

Susan E. Polcari CPA is a solo accounting practice based in Chattanooga that handles tax preparation, bookkeeping, and financial consulting for individual and small-business clients. As a certified public accountant, Polcari brings the highest credential in accounting and is held to continuing education requirements and ethical standards set by the state of Tennessee and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

What the Practice Actually Does

The practice focuses on tax preparation and compliance rather than large-scale audits or corporate restructuring. Polcari works primarily with individuals filing 1040 forms, self-employed professionals, and owners of small pass-through entities (S-corps, LLCs, partnerships). Bookkeeping and payroll services are available, along with tax planning to identify deductions and strategies that lower year-end liability. The engagement model is typically fee-for-service, meaning clients pay a flat or hourly rate for work performed rather than a percentage of assets or income. This structure suits clients who want transparent, predictable costs and have no ongoing advisory relationship with the firm.

Pricing and Service Basis

Specific fees depend on return complexity and the scope of work requested; a basic 1040 with standard deductions costs less than a return involving rental property, business income, or investment gains. Bookkeeping is often quoted as a monthly retainer based on the volume of transactions. Tax planning consultations are typically charged hourly or as a one-time flat fee. Because tax-preparation pricing fluctuates based on individual client circumstances, contact the practice directly to receive an estimate tailored to your situation.

How Polcari Compares to Other Chattanooga Accountants

Chattanooga has several options for tax and accounting services, spanning solo practitioners, small firms, and national franchises like H&R Block and Jackson Hewitt. A key difference is credential and scope. Polcari holds the CPA credential, which requires passing the Uniform CPA Exam and meeting education and experience requirements; this is more stringent than Enrolled Agent (EA) or tax-preparer certifications that some competitors hold. This credential is valuable if you face IRS disputes, complex business structures, or state tax issues that may require deeper expertise. Tax franchises offer walk-in appointments and handle volume quickly, but typically charge per-form pricing and employ staff with varying credentials. Solo or small-firm CPAs like Polcari provide a consistent relationship with the same professional across multiple years, which can lead to better continuity and deeper knowledge of your financial situation over time.

Choose Polcari if you prefer working with a CPA over multiple years, want customized tax planning tailored to your business or income picture, or need someone available for mid-year questions and adjustments. Choose a franchise or larger firm if you need quick processing, walk-in availability, or prefer lower costs for straightforward returns with minimal complexity.

Who This Practice Suits and Who It Doesn't

This practice works well for self-employed professionals, small-business owners, and individuals with investment income or itemized deductions who benefit from tax planning and consistent year-over-year advice. It also suits clients who want a single point of contact and are willing to schedule appointments in advance. It is less suited for clients seeking a full-service wealth advisory firm that also manages investments or handles estate planning at an attorney level. Those needing only basic 1040 filing and minimal follow-up may find faster, cheaper options elsewhere.

What a First Engagement Involves

The initial contact typically includes a conversation about the scope of work, tax history, and financial situation. For new tax clients, Polcari will request prior-year returns, income documentation (W-2s, 1099s, business records), deduction records, and any other relevant financial information. A fee estimate is provided once the complexity is clear. Subsequent work is often streamlined if the engagement continues in future years, since prior-year information is retained.

Hours, Location, and Logistics

Susan E. Polcari CPA operates by appointment. Confirm current hours and the office location directly with the practice, as small solo practices sometimes adjust scheduling seasonally or by client need. The practice is accessible to clients in and around Chattanooga and may offer phone or remote consultations for routine matters.

Polcari's CPA credential and willingness to engage in ongoing tax planning distinguish her from discount-focused competitors and from practitioners without the full CPA designation. For a Chattanooga business owner or professional with year-round tax concerns, that combination justifies the relationship.