Starting a business in New York City is an exciting opportunity, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most important steps for any NYC startup is choosing the right startup accountant or CPA to ensure your financial health and compliance with tax laws. According to a 2022 report by the New York State Governor’s Office, there are more than 200,000 small businesses operating in NYC, and the city ranks among the top 10 for business tax complexity in the U.S. This makes it crucial for entrepreneurs in neighborhoods like Manhattan’s Financial District, Brooklyn’s DUMBO, and Queens’ Long Island City to work with qualified professionals who can guide them through local and federal tax laws.
With thousands of accounting firms spread across NYC—from Midtown Manhattan’s 7th Avenue to Chinatown’s Canal Street—it can be overwhelming to choose the right one, and of course to secure startup business loans with bad credit.. The good news is that there are highly rated CPAs who specialize in helping startups navigate everything from tax filings to business strategy. For example, businesses in areas like SoHo or Harlem have access to trusted professionals who not only offer expertise in taxes but can help businesses secure credits and incentives like those offered by the Startup NY program. Understanding how to leverage these resources can make all the difference in the success of your startup.
The 8 Most Popular Startup Business Accounting Firms & CPA’s in New York City (Updated for 2025)
LUO CPA PLLC
- Address: 333 W 39th St #805
- Phone: +1 646-216-9191
- Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 8 pm
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 7+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “Ivan and his team helped me out tremendously with my taxes for 2022!”
- Review summary: Rated 4.9(33) on Google by satisfied customers.
Spear CPA CFP
- Address: 315 Madison Ave 3rd floor
- Phone: +1 212-206-7336
- Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 5 pm
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 10+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “Great CPA service through and through–professional and very responsive!”
- Review summary: Rated 5.0(67) on Google by satisfied customers.
NYB CPA P.C
- Address: 450 7th Ave suite 1901
- Phone: +1 646-801-9224
- Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 7 pm
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 7+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “Mr. Benisti answered all my questions and completed by taxes in no time.”
- Review summary: Rated 4.9(87) on Google by satisfied customers.
Li & Zheng CPA PLLC
- Address: 112 W 34th St.
- Phone: +1 212-946-4782
- Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 5 pm
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 5+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “They completed my filing in less than 2 weeks!”
- Review summary: Rated 4.9(38) on Google by satisfied customers.
Carter & Company New York CPA
- Address: 136 Madison Ave Floors 5 & 6
- Phone: +1 332-900-5681
- Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 5 pm
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 10+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “Very professional team that delivered exceptional knowledge and expertise.”
- Review summary: Rated 5.0(48) on Google by satisfied customers.
Jonathan Medows CPA
- Address: 570 Grand St
- Phone: +1 646-415-8011
- Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 6 pm
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 10+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “Most firms don’t do that they only do the work they’re hired to do.”
- Review summary: Rated 5.0(10) on Google by satisfied customers.
Simpson & Kirkman Tax Inc- NYC CPA
- Address: 124 Nassau St
- Phone: +1 201-500-4318
- Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 4 pm
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 3+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “Very professional, extremely knowledgeable on accounting.”
- Review summary: Rated 4.8(24) on Google by satisfied customers.
Haque CPA
- Address: 100 Park Ave #16
- Phone: +1 212-880-2617
- Hours: Open now
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 7+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “Responsiveness and attention to detail are second to none.”
- Review summary: Rated 5.0(24) on Google by satisfied customers.
OnPoint Business Tax & Accounting
- Address: 100 Church St #800
- Phone: +1 212-920-1184
- Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 6:30 pm
- Why they’re startup-friendly: With 20+ years of experience, they’ve supported clients like: “Milla was excellent at helping me with my taxes.”
- Review summary: Rated 4.9(93) on Google by satisfied customers.
FAQ: Choosing a CPA or Accountant for Your NYC Startup in 2025
1. Do I need a CPA or an accountant for my startup?
Yes, especially if you’re incorporated or planning to raise capital. While a bookkeeper can manage your day-to-day expenses, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is licensed and qualified to provide higher-level financial services like tax filing, strategic planning, and audit defense.
A CPA can also help ensure your startup complies with IRS requirements, which is crucial for avoiding costly penalties.
2. How do I verify if an accountant or CPA is licensed in New York?
In New York, CPAs must be licensed through the New York State Education Department (NYSED). You can check a CPA’s license status using the official online database. Resource: NYSED: Verify a Professional License
3. What tax deadlines should NYC startups be aware of?
Startups structured as LLCs or corporations face different filing deadlines. For instance:
- March 15 is the deadline for partnerships and S corps.
- April 15 is the deadline for C corps and sole proprietors.
- Late filing can trigger failure-to-file penalties from the IRS and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.
- IRS: Business Tax Deadlines
4. What are the tax advantages of incorporating my startup in New York?
New York offers several tax benefits for startups, including:
- Qualified Emerging Technology Company (QETC) tax credits
- Sales tax exemptions on R&D equipment
- Startup NY programs that provide tax-free zones for eligible companies
- These programs are designed to stimulate growth and innovation.
- Empire State Development: Business Incentives
5. How can I protect my business from accounting fraud or financial mismanagement?
To protect your startup:
- Hire a CPA with public licensure
- Request engagement letters that outline services and fees
- Ensure they use secure portals for sharing sensitive data
- Stay informed on your rights and duties as a business owner
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also offers tips for safeguarding small business finances.
- FTC: Protecting Small Businesses
Editor of Startups #nofilter
