No. We have approximately 400 clients that we work with long distance. In fact, we have numerous clients that have been clients for many years that we have never met face to face. With technology today, it's easy and secure.
Since 1957
A Small Firm, in a Small Town
We've been at the same location since 1962.
Our ability to provide timely and convenient service to the client is due to our major investment in technology; computer hardware, software and the knowledge and training of our staff members. Although our clients spend a short amount of time being interviewed, the various staff involved collectively devote on average 5.5 to 7.5 hours to complete the finalizing and filing of each tax return processed through this office.
Our job requires special people who are willing to dedicate themselves 100% during Tax Season. Not everyone can make the commitment it requires. Read about our Semicentennial, 50 Year Anniversary back in 2007, see the two page newspaper story here.
Founder Al LaGrone, EA, PA
Bara Business Service
In December 1994, Greg purchased the practice from retiring founder, Al LaGrone. Due to state regulations governing Greg's CPA license, the firm name was changed from Bara Business Service to Cook & LaGrone during the transition. LaGrone continued to work with the firm until his death in March 1996. State regulations required that the LaGrone name be dropped from the firm two years after his death, so in 1998 the firm was registered as Cook and Company.
Our Success
The People We Employ
We do what we do because we are passionate about helping our clients.
Our specialty is tax and has been since 1957.
We are a small firm in a small town, but we do a big job for a lot of people. We are located in Arab, Alabama and although we serve clientele in all fifty states and nineteen foreign countries, our primary market is Nashville to Birmingham.
- Bara Business
1957 - 1993 - Cook & LaGrone
1994 - 1997 - Cook & Co.
1998 - Present
Do I have to make the trip to Arab to file my taxes?
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes. We lose a number of clients each year to various reasons like death, they move away and are uncomfortable with the long-distance relationship, or their daughter marries a CPA, so we need to take on new clients due to this attrition.
Check our BBB Rating & Reviews
If you are considering contacting us for services, I encourage you to check out our reviews and rating at the Better Business Bureau of North Alabama by clicking here.
What Our Clients Say About Us
We use Cook & Co to do our personal and business tax filings. All of our questions are answered and we walk away from the visit feeling confident with our current business tax strategies.
Client
***** ***** goes beyond expectations. He even told us what would happen in 2018 when the new tax law takes effect. And gave us some more options that we did not know.
Client
I met with Cook & Co. yesterday for the first time. What a pleasant experience! Their ability to discuss tax law in a way that I could understand it was much appreciated. I'm glad I switched!
New Client
As usual our tax return was completed quickly and efficiently. We had a few different items to add through inheritance from my wife's father. As expected, **** knew exactly what to do. She has been doing our tax return for several years, and we expect to continue to use her in the future.
Client
Great firm...bright, quality return preps, very user friendly, have your best interests at heart...short and long term. Used for over 15+ years. THEY DO NOT DISAPPOINT and will definitely save you tax $$ and unwanted adverse implications.
Client
Cook Accounting is the most reliable accounting service I have ever used. Everyone who works there understands and is absolutely competent. Unequivocally recommend Cook's.
Client
We have been using Cook & Co for almost 3 decades. They are professional, personable, and always up-to-date on the latest tax codes. Highly recommend. Not only do they prepare your taxes, but also support you if audited.
Client
I have used Cook and Company for 27 years. They have always done excellent work, answered all my questions and I leave there feeling confident that my tax return was done right. I've never been audited but feel sure that they would represent me well should that ever occur. I highly recommend them. It is very worth the drive to Arab.
Client
I have been using Cook and Co for over 15 years now and I would not even think to go elsewhere. This team is second to none. Period
Client