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

 

A Remote Tax Advisor Delivering Proactive Planning Through Secure Online Meeting

Madsen and Company is a Utah-based virtual-first CPA firm providing proactive tax planning, advisory, and compliance services to small business owners, S-Corporation owners, and real estate investors nationwide. Our virtual-first model allows us to deliver clear, strategic guidance year-round—without the limitations of a traditional office-based CPA firm.

A virtual-first CPA provides tax planning, advisory, and compliance services primarily through secure digital tools and scheduled meetings, rather than in-person office visits.

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.

What Is a Virtual-First CPA?

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.

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 CPA	Traditional 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

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 are based in South Jordan, Utah, and proudly serve clients throughout Utah and across the United States.

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.

Explore our Tax Planning Services

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