Are These CPAs Vetted by Us?

Short answer: Yes — and no.

We conduct a basic, preliminary check on every CPA listed in the NIL CPA Directory. That means we verify public information, confirm obvious credentials, and look for major red flags before a profile goes live.

But the true value of this directory is the feedback from student-athletes, families, and other clients who have actually worked with these CPAs. The most reliable way to know whether a CPA is the right fit is to hear directly from people who have entrusted them with their NIL tax and financial needs.

What We Do (Our Preliminary Vetting)

Before a CPA appears in the directory, we typically:

  • Confirm the CPA’s name, firm, and contact information.

  • Check public records to confirm an active CPA license in their state(s) of practice.

  • Look for public disciplinary actions, major complaints, or legal issues.

  • Ensure the profile meets our listing standards (no spam, clear and accurate contact details).

Important: This is not a full background investigation, a guarantee of quality, or an endorsement. It’s a first filter to remove clearly unqualified or misleading listings — not a substitute for first-hand experience or independent due diligence.

Why Client Reviews Matter

Each CPA’s profile can include ratings and written reviews from real student-athletes, families, and clients.

  • If a CPA delivers excellent service, it will show in their reviews.

  • If there are issues—missed deadlines, poor communication, or questionable advice—that will show too.

The collective experience of the community is the most up-to-date and meaningful measure of a CPA’s professionalism, expertise, and reliability.

Ten Things to Check Before Hiring an NIL CPA

Use this checklist when evaluating a CPA for NIL tax and financial services. If a CPA can’t meet most of these, keep looking.

  1. Clear communication & responsiveness – Do they reply promptly and keep you informed?

  2. Transparent fees & scope – Are rates and services spelled out in writing?

  3. Written engagement letter – Is there a clear agreement outlining services, timelines, and fees?

  4. NIL / multi-state tax expertise – Do they understand NCAA rules, multiple state filings, and sport-specific deductions?

  5. Year-round planning support – Do they help with quarterly estimates, deductions, and proactive strategies?

  6. Experience with athletes – Can they show past NIL or athlete client experience?

  7. Access to related professionals – Can they connect you with attorneys, financial advisors, or compliance officers?

  8. Education & guidance – Do they explain tax concepts so you can make informed decisions?

  9. No conflicts of interest – Do they disclose any relationships that could influence their advice?

  10. References & proven track record – Do client reviews match their claims?

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Pressure to commit without a clear proposal or engagement letter.

  • Vague or verbal-only explanations of services or pricing.

  • Refusal to provide references or proof of CPA licensing.

  • Promises of “guaranteed” tax savings without specifics.

  • No verifiable track record or client feedback.

If a CPA Isn’t Meeting These Standards

  • Start with a conversation – Ask for clarification, examples, and references.

  • Get documents reviewed – Have a parent, guardian, compliance officer, or attorney look over the engagement letter.

  • Check reviews in our directory – See if others have raised similar concerns.

  • Report issues – Use the report function on the CPA’s profile to alert others.

  • Consider switching – Use our directory to compare alternatives before tax season deadlines.

How to Use This Directory Wisely

  • Read multiple reviews—one opinion rarely tells the whole story.

  • Focus on recent feedback; a CPA’s quality can change over time.

  • Compare checklist items between CPAs, not just star ratings.

  • Ask for examples that match your needs—multi-state filings, entity setup, audit defense, etc.

Help Keep the Directory Strong

Your experiences make this directory valuable. If you’ve worked with a CPA listed here, leave an honest review. Your feedback helps other student-athletes and families make better, safer decisions.

Questions, concerns, or reviews to submit?
Visit the CPA’s profile page or contact our support team at info@NILCPADirectory.com.

By combining our initial screening with transparent, real-world feedback from clients, the NIL CPA Directory helps you make informed, confident decisions about who handles your NIL taxes and financial planning.