Sell your CPA Firms business
Recurring client relationships and predictable busy-season revenue make CPA firms highly sellable—and private equity has arrived in accounting. Here’s what your firm is worth.
What it’s worth
CPA Firms valuation multiples
CPA firms have historically sold around 0.9–1.3× annual revenue (roughly 3–5× SDE), but PE-backed consolidators are now paying stronger EBITDA-based multiples for larger, growing firms.
These are general, illustrative ranges for healthy businesses—not a valuation or an offer. Actual value depends on size, margins, recurring revenue, customer concentration, owner dependence, and deal structure. For a real number, request a free confidential valuation.
What drives your multiple
- Recurring compliance revenue and client retention
- Service mix (tax, audit, advisory) and realization rates
- Staff retention amid the accounting talent shortage
- Client concentration and partner dependence
- Transition plan for the selling partner(s)
Who’s buying
The buyer landscape
- Private-equity-backed accounting platforms consolidating firms nationwide
- Larger regional firms acquiring for talent, clients, and capacity
- Individual CPAs and partners buying in or merging
Florida considerations
What’s specific to selling here
- Florida’s business and population growth drives steady demand for tax and advisory work
- The talent shortage makes staff retention a top buyer priority
- Timing around busy season affects transition planning and close dates
Before you go to market
How to prepare—and lift your value
1
Strengthen staff retention and reduce dependence on individual partners
2
Grow recurring advisory revenue alongside compliance work
3
Document client retention and realization to support the multiple
FAQ
Selling your CPA or accounting firm: FAQ
How are CPA firms valued today?
Traditionally around 0.9–1.3× revenue (about 3–5× SDE), but PE-backed consolidators now pay stronger EBITDA multiples for larger, growing firms with good staff retention.
Is private equity really buying accounting firms?
Yes—PE has moved into accounting aggressively, creating new options and often higher valuations for firms of scale. We help you weigh PE, strategic, and internal-succession paths.
How do you keep my firm’s sale confidential?
Buyers are screened and sign NDAs before learning your identity, and information is staged—protecting your clients, staff, and partners throughout.
Start here
Thinking about selling your CPA Firms business?
Start with a confidential conversation and an honest read on your value, your likely buyers, and your timeline.