What is the average cost of a CPA for taxes in 2026?

Based on National Society of Accountants data, the average fee for a Form 1040 with a state return is approximately $323 for a simple return and $515 for an itemized return. Adding a Schedule C for self-employment income raises the average to $670–$900. Small business entity returns (S-corp, partnership) run $950–$2,500.

Do CPAs charge by the hour or by the project?

Both models exist. Hourly rates for CPAs range from $150 to $400 per hour depending on experience and location. Many CPAs offer flat-fee pricing for defined services like annual returns, which is easier to budget. Tax planning, consulting, and audit representation are more commonly billed hourly. Always clarify the billing model before engaging.

Is it worth paying more for a highly experienced CPA?

For complex situations — business ownership, real estate investing, high income, IRS disputes — yes. A senior CPA with relevant experience typically identifies strategies and catches errors that justify their higher rate. For simple individual returns, a less expensive CPA or even well-rated tax software may serve you just as well.

How Much Does a CPA Cost in 2026?

May 14, 2026

CPA Fee Ranges in 2026

CPA pricing varies by service complexity, geographic market, and the individual firm's experience level. Here is a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to pay in 2026.

Individual Tax Returns

Simple Form 1040 (W-2 income, standard deduction): $200–$400
Itemized deductions added: $400–$600
With Schedule C (self-employment): $600–$1,000
With rental income (Schedule E): $750–$1,200
With investment income and stock sales: $500–$900
High-income with multiple schedules: $1,000–$2,500+

Business Entity Returns

Single-member LLC (reported on Schedule C): $600–$1,000
S-Corp (Form 1120-S) + owner's personal return: $1,500–$3,500
C-Corp (Form 1120): $2,000–$5,000+
Partnership (Form 1065): $1,500–$4,000
Multi-state returns (add per state): $200–$500 per state

Ongoing Accounting Services

Monthly bookkeeping (low volume): $300–$600/month
Monthly bookkeeping (medium volume): $600–$1,500/month
CFO-level advisory services: $2,000–$5,000+/month
Payroll processing (per employee): $30–$60/employee/month

Hourly Consulting Rates

General CPA consultation: $150–$250/hour
Senior CPA or tax specialist: $250–$400/hour
IRS audit representation: $200–$400/hour

What Drives CPA Fees Higher

Several factors push CPA costs above the average ranges:

Multiple entities or returns: Each entity requires a separate filing
Multi-state presence: Each state adds filing complexity
Late or disorganized records: CPAs bill for time spent sorting records that should have been kept current
Geographic location: CPAs in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles charge 30–50% more than national averages
Specialty expertise: CPAs with deep experience in real estate, crypto, or international tax charge a premium

How to Get an Accurate Quote

Before contacting CPAs, assemble a summary of your situation: your entity type, number of states where you operate, approximate revenue, number of transactions, and any unusual items (stock options, crypto, foreign accounts). The more specific you are, the more accurate the quote you will receive.

Request quotes from at least three CPAs in your area. Browse our city directory to find ranked CPAs near you and compare their services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of a CPA for taxes in 2026?: Based on National Society of Accountants data, the average fee for a Form 1040 with a state return is approximately $323 for a simple return and $515 for an itemized return. Adding a Schedule C for self-employment income raises the average to $670–$900. Small business entity returns (S-corp, partnership) run $950–$2,500.
Do CPAs charge by the hour or by the project?: Both models exist. Hourly rates for CPAs range from $150 to $400 per hour depending on experience and location. Many CPAs offer flat-fee pricing for defined services like annual returns, which is easier to budget. Tax planning, consulting, and audit representation are more commonly billed hourly. Always clarify the billing model before engaging.
Is it worth paying more for a highly experienced CPA?: For complex situations — business ownership, real estate investing, high income, IRS disputes — yes. A senior CPA with relevant experience typically identifies strategies and catches errors that justify their higher rate. For simple individual returns, a less expensive CPA or even well-rated tax software may serve you just as well.