American Wealthy Turning to CPAs for Help
To be sure, tax advice is still the primary service (96 percent) delivered by a
CPA, but...

Almost half of affluent investors surveyed view the CPA as a key source of investment advice (45 percent).

More than 25 percent of the affluent respondents consult a CPA for comprehensive financial planning, retirement income planning or estate planning services.

"The evident shift in the affluent investor's view of accountants is exciting and promising for CPAs who are considering offering more comprehensive financial services to their clients and stepping up to take a broader advisor role," according to Richard A. Karas, resident of NFS Distributors Inc., the distribution arm of Nationwide Financial, based in Columbus, Ohio.

"The survey indicates there is great opportunity for CPAs to expand their services, deepen client relationships and potentially grow their business with high-dollar clients."

CPAs get high marks in:
- Takes time to explain things I don't understand... 91%
- Presents an objective analysis... 89%
- Researches all options... 83%
- Stays in touch... 82%