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Business Details
42 Years
experience
Your Trusted Accounting Partner in Buffalo Grove, IL
Picker & Associates has been a trusted name in accounting and financial consulting for nearly four decades. Our firm was founded on the principles of honesty, trust, and competence, and we continue to uphold these values in every client interaction. We specialize in providing comprehensive accounting, audit, tax, and consulting services tailored to the unique needs of businesses and individuals. Our team of experienced CPAs brings deep industry expertise across real estate, manufacturing, construction, and nonprofit sectors. We prioritize proactive service delivery, ensuring timely and responsive support to resolve even the most complex financial challenges. With offices in Illinois and nationwide reach, we serve clients in Illinois, New York, Wisconsin, Ohio, Florida, Texas, and Arizona.

Our commitment to principal contact and personal continuity fosters long-term relationships that deliver sustained value. Founder Ralph Picker, a recognized expert with national speaking engagements, leads our innovative approach to tax and business consulting. We maintain rigorous ethical standards while adapting to evolving industry demands through continuous professional development. Our dedication to client success has earned us enduring loyalty from businesses and individuals who rely on our expertise for financial clarity and growth.
Services
Tax Preparation Financial Planning Audits & Reviews Estate Planning Small Business Accounting IRS Representation QuickBooks Services Retirement Planning Forensic Accounting Business Valuation
Details
  • Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
  • We offer 40+ years of proven experience in accounting and tax consulting
  • Our team includes specialized CPAs with industry-specific expertise
  • We provide nationwide service with local market knowledge in 7 states
  • We maintain principal-level client engagement throughout all engagements
  • We combine innovative approaches with traditional ethical standards
What people say
Friendly staff Very professional Reasonable fees
Services
Tax Preparation
Our comprehensive tax preparation services ensure accurate and timely filing for individuals and businesses. We handle complex tax situations including multi-state returns, business entities, and high-net-worth individuals. Our CPAs stay current with evolving tax regulations to maximize deductions while maintaining compliance. We provide detailed explanations of tax implications and offer year-round support for tax-related questions.
Financial Planning
We create personalized financial plans to help clients achieve long-term financial security. Our services include retirement planning, investment strategy, risk management, and college funding strategies. We analyze current financial status and develop customized roadmaps aligned with life goals. Our approach balances growth objectives with risk mitigation through diversified investment strategies.
Audits & Reviews
We conduct thorough financial audits and reviews for businesses requiring assurance services. Our team follows GAAP standards to verify financial statements and ensure regulatory compliance. We identify internal control weaknesses and provide actionable recommendations. Our audit services help businesses maintain transparency with stakeholders and meet reporting requirements for financing or regulatory purposes.
Estate Planning
Our estate planning services help clients preserve wealth and facilitate smooth asset transfer. We coordinate wills, trusts, and advanced directives while minimizing tax liabilities. We address probate avoidance, charitable giving, and family business succession. Our approach considers both legal and financial aspects to create comprehensive estate plans that reflect clients' wishes and protect beneficiaries.
Small Business Accounting
We provide complete accounting solutions for small businesses including monthly bookkeeping, financial statement preparation, and payroll processing. Our services ensure accurate financial records and timely reporting. We offer bank reconciliation, cash flow analysis, and customized financial dashboards. Our support helps business owners focus on operations while maintaining financial clarity and compliance.
People
Ralph Picker
CPA & Managing Principal
Ralph Picker is a certified public accountant with extensive experience in business audit and tax consulting. He specializes in serving multi-operating businesses and individuals, with expertise in tax strategy and business consulting. Ralph has authored numerous articles and speaks nationally on accounting topics. He maintains active memberships in professional organizations including the American Institute of CPAs.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide complete small business accounting including bookkeeping, financial statements, payroll processing, and cash flow management. Our services ensure accurate financial records and regulatory compliance.
How can you help with tax problems?
We offer IRS representation, audit support, and resolution for back taxes, liens, and wage garnishments. Our team develops payment plans and offers tax planning to prevent future issues.
Do you provide financial planning for individuals?
Yes, we offer personalized financial planning covering retirement, estate planning, investment strategy, and risk management tailored to individual needs and goals.
What industries do you specialize in?
We have specialized expertise in real estate, manufacturing, construction, condominium associations, and nonprofit organizations, providing industry-specific accounting solutions.
How do you handle client consultations?
We offer free initial consultations and maintain principal-level engagement throughout all projects, ensuring direct access to experienced professionals for every client.