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Trusted Tax and Accounting Services in East Aurora
For over four decades, Philipps & Brooks has provided comprehensive tax and accounting services to individuals and businesses throughout Western New York. Our team of four certified public accountants and three additional tax and accounting professionals bring extensive expertise to every engagement. We specialize in both individual and small business income tax services, offering personalized solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. Our services include tax return preparation, strategic tax planning, IRS representation, and business start-up consulting. We understand that every client has distinct financial goals, whether preparing for retirement, purchasing a home, or growing a business.

Our experienced professionals work closely with clients to navigate complex tax codes and optimize financial outcomes. With convenient options for document submission and communication, we strive to make the tax process as seamless as possible. From our East Aurora office, we serve clients with both in-person consultations and secure digital solutions, adapting to modern needs while maintaining the personal touch that has defined our practice for over 40 years.
Services
Tax Return Preparation Tax Planning IRS Representation Business Tax Services Small Business Start-up Services Bookkeeping Services Payroll Services Audit Representation Delinquent Tax Matters Strategic Planning
Highlights and features
  • We have over 40 years of experience serving Western New York
  • Our team includes four CPAs plus three additional tax and accounting professionals
  • We provide personalized services for individuals and businesses of all sizes
  • We offer strategic tax planning and preparation services
  • We provide IRS and New York State representation
Services
Tax Return Preparation
We provide comprehensive tax return preparation services for individuals and businesses. Our experienced CPAs carefully review all financial information to ensure accurate reporting and maximize potential refunds. From simple returns to complex filings involving property transactions or business income, our team handles all aspects of federal, state, and local tax preparation with meticulous attention to detail.
Tax Planning
Our proactive tax planning services help clients optimize their financial position throughout the year. We analyze current financial situations to identify legitimate deductions, credits, and deferral opportunities. By understanding each client's unique circumstances, we develop customized strategies to minimize tax liability while supporting long-term financial goals, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.
IRS Representation
We provide expert representation for clients facing IRS or New York State tax issues. Our team handles audits, collection matters, and tax disputes with all levels of tax authorities. From resolving back taxes to negotiating offers in compromise, we work to protect client interests while ensuring proper handling of tax obligations through established legal procedures.
Business Tax Services
We offer comprehensive tax services for businesses of all sizes, from sole proprietorships to corporations. Our services include entity selection advice, payroll tax compliance, sales tax registration, and business tax return preparation. We help business owners understand their tax obligations and implement strategies to minimize tax exposure while maintaining compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Bookkeeping Services
Our bookkeeping services help businesses maintain accurate financial records for tax and operational purposes. We handle system setup, data entry, general ledger maintenance, and bank reconciliations. Our professionals ensure proper categorization of business transactions to provide clients with reliable financial information for decision making and tax reporting purposes.
People
Richard A. Brooks
Principal
With over 40 years of experience, Richard Brooks leads our firm's commitment to excellence in tax and accounting services. He specializes in helping individuals and businesses navigate complex tax matters while maintaining a personal approach to client relationships. Richard ensures our firm stays current with changing tax regulations to provide accurate, up-to-date advice.
Karen Kellogg
Tax Manager
Karen Kellogg combines extensive tax expertise with a focus on client satisfaction. She specializes in individual and business tax matters, helping clients understand complex tax issues in clear, practical terms. Karen works closely with clients to develop effective tax strategies that align with their financial goals while ensuring compliance with all requirements.
Cara L. Sheehan
CPA
Cara Sheehan brings professional accounting expertise to our tax and audit services. She works with both individual and business clients, providing accurate tax preparation and strategic planning advice. Cara maintains strong knowledge of current tax codes to help clients maximize benefits while remaining fully compliant with all reporting requirements.
Theo Fadel
CPA
Theo Fadel provides expert accounting and tax services with a focus on personalized solutions. He assists clients with tax return preparation, financial planning, and compliance matters. Theo stays current with evolving tax regulations to ensure accurate advice and helps clients understand complex tax concepts in practical, actionable terms.
Lisa Polinski
Director of Operations
Lisa Polinski manages our firm's operations while maintaining direct client involvement. She coordinates our team's efforts to ensure efficient service delivery while also working directly with clients on tax and accounting matters. Lisa plays key roles in process improvement and client communication.
Questions
Do I need to pay taxes by April 15th even if I file an extension?
Yes, you must pay any tax liability by April 15th even if you file an extension. The extension only extends the filing deadline, not the payment deadline.
How does a name change affect my tax filing?
A name change affects your tax filing. The IRS now matches Social Security numbers with names, so you must update Social Security before filing to avoid refund delays.
Should I drop off documents or schedule an appointment?
First-time clients or those with complex returns should schedule an appointment. Most clients can securely upload documents through our client portal for convenience.
How do you handle IRS or NYS correspondence?
We review all tax notices, analyze issues, and determine appropriate actions. We communicate directly with tax authorities to resolve matters efficiently on your behalf.
What sets you apart from other tax firms?
We combine over 40 years of local experience with personalized service. Our team of four CPAs and three tax professionals offers customized solutions for individuals and businesses of all sizes.
What if I receive a letter from the IRS?
Contact us immediately if you receive IRS correspondence. We'll review the notice, explain the issue, and handle communications with tax authorities on your behalf.