What Does It Mean to Work With a Virtual-First CPA?


A virtual-first CPA provides proactive tax planning, advisory, and tax preparation services through secure digital tools instead of in-person office visits.

Madsen and Company is a virtual-first CPA firm serving business owners, S-Corporation owners, and real estate investors nationwide.

Madsen and Company has provided tax planning and advisory services to business owners since 1995.

virtual-first CPA meeting with clients online for tax planning services

Quick Answer

A virtual-first CPA provides tax planning, advisory, and tax preparation using secure digital systems instead of in-person meetings, allowing clients to receive year-round guidance from anywhere.

CPA Insight

A virtual-first CPA model works best for clients who need proactive planning throughout the year, not just tax filing during busy season.

What Is a Virtual-First CPA?

Unlike firms that simply “went remote,” our practice was intentionally built to deliver proactive planning through secure technology, streamlined communication, and structured advisory workflows—so your CPA relationship works around your business, not the other way around.

While the tools matter, the real difference is how the CPA relationship is structured.

A virtual-first CPA is designed around ongoing planning and accessibility, not office visits or seasonal interactions. Instead of relying on physical paperwork and in-person meetings, a virtual-first model uses secure systems and scheduled touchpoints to support year-round tax strategy, advisory discussions, and timely decision-making.

This structure allows clients to work with experienced CPAs regardless of location while benefiting from clearer communication, better organization, and proactive guidance throughout the year.

At Madsen and Company, being virtual-first is not about replacing relationships with software—it’s about using technology to strengthen the CPA-client relationship.

Working with a virtual-first CPA allows business owners to receive proactive tax planning without needing in-person meetings.

Many clients choose a virtual-first CPA because the relationship is built around planning, not just tax filing.

Virtual-First CPA vs Traditional CPA Firms

The difference between a virtual-first CPA and a traditional CPA firm is not just location — it’s how and when planning happens.

Virtual-First CPATraditional CPA
✔ Secure online portals and digital document sharing✖ Paper documents and office drop-offs
✔ Video meetings and scheduled planning calls✖ In-person meetings only
✔ Year-round tax planning and advisory✖ Primarily seasonal tax filing
✔ Nationwide service✖ Limited by geographic location
✔ Proactive communication✖ Reactive, deadline-driven interactions

Our virtual-first model allows us to focus on strategy, planning, and clarity—rather than paperwork and inefficiencies.

Who Benefits Most From a Virtual-First CPA?

A virtual-first CPA model is especially effective for:

  • Small business owners who want proactive tax planning, not last-minute surprises
  • S-Corporation owners looking to optimize compensation, deductions, and cash flow
  • Real estate investors with rental properties, short-term rentals, or multi-state holdings
  • Business owners with limited time who prefer efficient, remote meetings
  • Clients outside Utah who want access to experienced CPA guidance without local limitations
  • See more on who we serve page

If you value clarity, responsiveness, and forward-looking advice, a virtual-first CPA is often a better fit than a traditional firm.

Many of these clients also benefit from proactive tax planning and year-round advisory services, not just annual tax filing.

How Our Virtual-First CPA Model Works

Working with Madsen and Company is simple, secure, and structured:

  • Secure client portal for document uploads, e-signatures, and communication
  • Video and phone meetings for planning, reviews, and strategy discussions
  • Year-round access to your CPA for tax planning and advisory support
  • Proactive planning cadence instead of once-a-year tax conversations
  • Clear deliverables and next steps so you always know where you stand

You receive the same professional expertise as a traditional CPA firm—delivered in a more efficient and modern way.

Why Choose Madsen and Company as Your Virtual-First CPA?

Founded in 1995, Madsen and Company brings 30+ years of CPA experience into a modern, virtual-first advisory model. We specialize in helping business owners understand complex tax rules and turn them into clear, actionable strategies.

Our approach is built around:

  • Proactive tax planning, not just compliance
  • Clear explanations without unnecessary jargon
  • Long-term relationships, not transactional filings
  • Technology that supports better decisions—not confusion

We work with clients in South Jordan, Utah, and throughout the United States through a secure virtual process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual-First CPA Services

Is working with a virtual CPA legitimate?

Yes. Virtual CPA firms use the same licensing standards, ethical requirements, and professional responsibilities as traditional CPA firms—while leveraging secure technology to improve efficiency and communication.

Do I ever meet with my CPA?

Yes. You’ll meet with your CPA through scheduled video or phone meetings, allowing for focused, efficient discussions without the need to travel or visit an office.

Is my information secure?

Yes. We use secure, encrypted client portals and professional software designed specifically for CPA firms to protect your financial information.

Can a virtual-first CPA handle multi-state tax issues?

Absolutely. Our virtual-first model is well-suited for clients with multi-state businesses, remote operations, or real estate investments across different states.

Is a Virtual-First CPA Right for You?

If you’re looking for:

  • Proactive tax planning
  • Clear, year-round guidance
  • A CPA relationship built around your business—not office visits

A virtual-first CPA firm may be the right fit.