Comments on: The Solo CPA’s Top Work-at-Home Tips

By: Donald L. Scanlon, MS, CPA, CFE, CVA

Donald L. Scanlon, MS, CPA, CFE, CVA — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 21:46:55 +0000

I’ve been exclusively working from home for several years. Before that, I used my home office part-time.

Like Mr. Ballman, I frequently make “house calls” which seems to work well & I enjoy the variety of going to someones home or office. I also make extensive use of electronic communications. I don’t seem to have a problem concentrating even though I leave the TV on all day–I think that it is mostly just for “company.” My biggest problems are staying away from the refrigerator and avoiding depression from being isolated from other people. I haven’t been too successful with the former, but, have solved the latter by involvement in church and civic organizations.

Other than the ability to wear gym shorts or sweats to work, the thing that I like best is knowing that I’m going to write-off part of my home utilities, condo fees, etc.

By: Sonia E. Perez, CPA, EA

Sonia E. Perez, CPA, EA — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 21:41:13 +0000

This is a very good article. For me one of the hardest obstacles is having my cats around demanding attention and distracting me from my work. I usually put them in a separate part of the home for a few hours, but I usually feel guilty for not letting them roam.

The real issue I have with being a solo practitioner is how to price my services. I would love to learn how others have dealt with this issue. Perhaps you can tackle this concern in a future survey.

Thanks for giving us an opportunity to comment and share.

Sonia E. Perez, CPA, EA

By: Edward P. Cooper, CPA, PC

Edward P. Cooper, CPA, PC — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 21:38:09 +0000

This article was really, on target — all good, and practical.
Additionally, it was helpful to get some verification on the ideas that I
already knew but had not implemented.

I’ve been amazed over the past year the number of small CPAs that have
invited me to pay modest rent for an extra office they have — contrary to
the fortress mentality at my old firm. Some of my best referrers of
business have been other small CPA firms, which has frankly surprised me.

Thanks for your columns, and Happy Holidays!

By: Tom Hood

Tom Hood — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 12:18:53 +0000

Great post Rick and Harry is an active Maryland member at MACPA and with the GWSCPA.

He probably did not mention that he was a critical part of our testimony in Annapolis which led to our ability to pass mobility legislation in Maryland last year.

He testified against our opposition by the Maryland Accountants and represented the voice of small practitioners and why mobility was critical to their tax practices (we are now at 31 states).

He is also an active member of the AICPA Council. Needless to say, we are proud of him!