★★★★★ 5.0 from 100+ Google reviews
Industries We Serve in Chicago & Olympia Field, IL | Heard +
Specialized accounting, tax and advisory services across 27 industries. Every business has its own deductions, filings and risks. We keep the books and prepare the returns with those in mind.
What changes by industry
- Which deductions apply and how to document them
- Sales tax, city taxes and licensing filings
- How income arrives: tips, 1099s, insurance, platforms
- Payroll, contractors and seasonal staffing
- The right entity and when to elect S corp status
- The software your industry already runs on
10+ yrstax and accounting experience
100+five-star Google reviews
27industries with dedicated expertise
2 officesChicago and Olympia Fields, plus virtual
Certified on the platforms our clients use
Industry-specific accounting
Specialized accounting, tax and advisory services across diverse industries
At Heard & Associates LLC, we understand that every industry faces unique financial, regulatory and operational challenges. A restaurant lives on tip reporting and monthly sales tax. A therapist tracks insurance remittances. A contractor needs job costing and the right tax method. A landlord needs depreciation set up correctly in year one. The rules are different, and so is the bookkeeping.
That is why we provide industry-specific bookkeeping, tax and advisory services tailored to the needs of businesses, organizations and individuals across Chicago. From compliance and clean books to tax planning and payroll, our team delivers clear, reliable financial support designed around the way your industry actually works.
Find your industry below. Each page explains the specific deductions, filings and planning opportunities we handle for businesses like yours.
One team, every industryBooks, payroll and taxes under one roof.
Find your industry
Industries we proudly serve in Chicago
Twenty-seven industries, each with its own page explaining what we handle and why it matters.
Business & IndividualReal Estate & PropertyHealthcare & Personal ServicesHome Service Trades & TransportRetail, Hospitality & ProductCreative, Media & Entertainment
Business & Individual
Owners, founders, freelancers and the people behind them
Small BusinessesOne local team for your books, payroll, taxes, and entity setup, all year.
View services →
Startups & FoundersEntity setup, clean books, and tax strategy for founders building something new.
View services →
Freelancers & Self-EmployedQuarterly taxes, deductions, and the S-corp threshold handled for 1099 earners.
View services →
High-Net-Worth IndividualsProactive tax planning and advisory for individuals with complex finances.
View services →
Nonprofit OrganizationsBookkeeping, Form 990 filing, and compliance for nonprofits.
View services →Real Estate & Property
Agents, landlords and the companies that manage buildings
Real EstateTax and accounting for agents, investors, and real estate firms.
View services →
Landlords & Rental Property OwnersSchedule E, depreciation, owner-occupied two-flats and short-term rentals for Chicago property owners.
View services →
Property ManagementTrust account reconciliation, owner statements, 1099s and company books for management firms.
View services →Healthcare & Personal Services
Private practices, clinics and service businesses
Doctors & PhysiciansBookkeeping and tax help built for private practices, from equipment depreciation to the S-corp question.
View services →
DentistsAccounting for dental practices and associates, equipment, lab fees, and tax planning handled.
View services →
VeterinaryClean books and smart tax strategy for veterinary practices and clinics.
View services →
Therapists & Solo PractitionersFinancial clarity for private-practice therapists and solo health professionals.
View services →
Mental Health TherapistsTax, bookkeeping, and S-corp guidance tailored to LPCs, LCSWs, and private practices.
View services →
Childcare & DaycareBookkeeping and tax help for daycare centers and home providers, including food-program income.
View services →
Salons & BarbersBooth rent, tips, product sales tax and payroll handled for salon and barbershop owners.
View services →Home Service Trades & Transport
Contractors, builders and owner-operators
HVAC ContractorsJob costing, payroll, and tax planning built for the seasonal swings of HVAC work.
View services →
PlumbersAccounting and tax support that fits how plumbing businesses actually earn and spend.
View services →
ConstructionJob costing, WIP, retainage, and the right tax method for contractors and builders.
View services →
TruckingBookkeeping, per-diem, and tax strategy for owner-operators and trucking fleets.
View services →Retail, Hospitality & Product
Sellers, restaurants and makers
RetailersInventory, sales tax, and clean books for Chicago retail businesses.
View services →
RestaurantsTip, payroll, and monthly sales-tax support built for restaurants and food service.
View services →
E-commerceMultistate sales tax, inventory, and platform income handled for online sellers.
View services →
ManufacturingCost accounting, inventory, the Illinois machinery exemption, and R&D credits.
View services →Creative, Media & Entertainment
Creators, crews and performers
Content Creators & Influencers1099 income, gifted-product taxes, and deductions handled for creators, influencers, and models.
View services →
Video ProductionProject job costing, 1099 crews, and the Illinois Film Tax Credit for production companies.
View services →
PhotographersGear deductions, home studio, and sales tax on prints, handled for photographers.
View services →
Sports & EntertainmentTax and accounting for performers, athletes, crew, and the pros behind them.
View services →Why it matters
What industry-specific accounting actually changes
The forms are the same for everyone. What goes on them, and what you can claim, depends on how your industry earns and spends.
Deductions
The differenceEvery industry has deductions a general preparer will not think to ask about.
At Heard & AssociatesPer diem for truckers, supervision hours for therapists, the Illinois machinery exemption for manufacturers, gifted products for creators. We ask.
Sales, city and special taxes
The differenceRestaurants, retailers, salons and online sellers each owe different state and Chicago taxes on different schedules.
At Heard & AssociatesWe keep the filing calendar for your industry, from Illinois ST-1 returns to Chicago restaurant and lease taxes.
Payroll and contractors
The differenceTips, booth rent, 1099 crews, seasonal staff and W-2 associates are all paid and reported differently.
At Heard & AssociatesPayroll and contractor reporting set up to match how your industry actually pays people.
Software
The differenceYour books should connect to the tools you already run the business on.
At Heard & AssociatesWe work with SimplePractice, AppFolio, Toast, Shopify, QuickBooks, Xero and the platforms your industry uses.
Entity and timing
The differenceWhen to elect S corp status, how to time equipment purchases and which tax method fits are industry questions.
At Heard & AssociatesWe plan around your revenue pattern, whether it is seasonal HVAC work, project-based production or steady practice income.
Client reviews
Rated 5.0 by 100+ clients on Google
Business owners across Chicago describe a team that understands their industry, explains the numbers clearly and answers quickly.
Donald Williams
6 days ago
Should be 5 stars squared. Heard & Associates was exactly what the Dr. ordered. My business and our personal returns were behind 2 going on 3 years because of a previous accounting relationship. I reach out to Heard & Associates, they said no problem, we will take care of you. Indeed they did. Our taxes for the business was complex, but Mr. Heard was focused on delivering a good experience and a better result. The returns were not completed in a day or two, I won't lie...but again understand our returns were complicated. I personally know how to do return and have been trained by H&R Block, but I wanted no parts of my business returns hahah. Mr. Heard was very professional, explained his process and what he hoped to accomplish during our check ins. He listen to how I wanted things done bases on my knowledge, corrected me if I needed some clarification but also agreed and followed suit when I had the facts right. We were very satisfied with end result for our return both personally and for the business. We have already recommended to others and so should you.
Adzure McCullough
7 days ago
I contacted Mr. Heard regarding a school project that required me to research and compare marketing strategies of businesses offering similar services. Mr. Heard and his team were extremely helpful and responsive. They even made time for me to speak directly with Mr. Heard to gain a better understanding of his business.
During our conversation, I found Mr. Heard to be passionate, knowledgeable, and driven. His dedication to helping his clients, as well as those simply seeking to learn more, was evident throughout our discussion.
I truly believe that anyone who chooses to work with Mr. Heard and his team will receive exceptional service, genuine support, and a level of dedication that sets them apart from others in the industry.
Ashleigh Bingham
2 weeks ago
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I can’t recommend Heard & Associates enough! They are professional, knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely supportive throughout the entire process. They take the time to answer questions, provide guidance, and make sure everything is handled correctly and efficiently. You can tell they know what they’re doing, and they get the job done! If you’re looking for a tax company you can trust, look no further!
Tatiana Marerro
4 weeks ago
Darrel is the best and very great at what he does!
Andre Clayton
2 months ago
Great work, I am very pleased with the work done by the firm.
James Williams
2 months ago
Thanks for your patient input with a tax matter from a previous tax agent.
Angell
3 months ago
Professional and excellent communication
Kiara Moore
3 months ago
Mr. Heard is amazing! He was extremely helpful and more than willing to jump in and help with the beginning steps of a NFP org that I am apart of. He answered whatever questions I had and alleviated so many of my concerns! I have no doubt that he will be beneficial for all future steps.
Randy Smith
4 months ago
I was very pleased with the process everything was done thoroughly and promptly. I look forward to continuing my business with Heard & Associates.
Nageeb Hasan
4 months ago
Quick initial response. Clear communication and proactive. Easy to work with.
Teanna Ramirez
5 months ago
Darrel has been amazing to work with. I brought him a mess and he was able to get things sorted out quickly. He was responsive and offered additional services to help my business! I appreciated his time and effort and how easy he made this process for me! I will continue using him for all of my business needs!
Kendra Spearman
5 months ago
Mr. Heard is exceptional! His expertise and professionalism have really saved me tremendous time and stress, which is extremely important to me as a small business owner. I am so excited to have him on my team.
carla Dotson
5 months ago
Heard & Associates made the tax process simple, easy to follow, and easy to understand. Mr. Heard returned my phone calls promptly whenever I had questions regarding my tax return. I would definitely give this company a 10/10 rating!
Thank you, Heard & Associates, for handling my 2025 tax return with professionalism and care. I will definitely be a returning customer next tax season! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Marcus Cruz
6 months ago
Darrell is by far the best CPA I’ve encountered. He performs his due diligence with urgency and perfection. If you want the best outcome for any tax problems or just routine things that may have to get taken care of, he’s definitely the one to get you together. I’ve had a lot of different CPA’s but he is bay far the best. Very knowledgeable and professional.
Valerie Bryant
6 months ago
Darrel was extremely helpful with my taxes. He made sure everything was handled correctly and worked to ensure i paid little to none to IRS. He was professional, knowledgeable, and easy to work with throughout the entire process. I highly recommend his services
Toni Howard
7 months ago
Heard & Associates is extremely proficient.
dawana smelly
7 months ago
I would really like to thank Heard Associates for a wonderful job on my taxes. I’ve been filing with them for 2 years and there’s never a disappointment. Thanks again.
Chanel Harrison
7 months ago
I have had nothing but the BEST of service with Heard & Associates LLC! They have been meeting my tax needs for the past few years. Very professional , knowledgeable and trustworthy
Javana White
7 months ago
Heard & Associates is a business that exemplifies stellar professionalism and integrity. I have been entrusting Mr. Heard with my taxes for 4 consecutive years and counting. My results are always consistent, and I have recommended many close family and friends to Heard & Associates, where friendly and efficient service is at the forefront.
Kiarra Lee
7 months ago
I always have a great experience working with Darryl. He’s professional, responsive, and knowledgeable. He gets things done accurately and on time. Even when I have a tight deadline, he was able to deliver quickly. I appreciate his reliability and I would recommend Heard & Associates services to anyone looking for a trustworthy and efficient accountant.
Donald Olson
7 months ago
I was searching for firm in the area to handle the taxes for an elderly friend (93) in memory care. (I am her power of attorney) I looked online for places with great reviews and ran across Heard and Associates. Every interaction I had with Darryl was efficient, friendly and painless. Communication was excellent and the process of loading the tax documents to the portal and signing the return was very straightforward. Darryl was kind enough to give us an extra discount for the elderly based on my friend’s age and ended up doing the return for free! Five stars for Heard and Associates!! Would recommend Darryl to anyone.
Stephanie McBay
7 months ago
I found Darrell Heard of Heard & Associates by doing a search of the top 10 tax filing companies in the southwest suburbs and he had a 4.5 star review. Mr. Heard is attentive, fast and thorough. I forgot my property tax documents and he was patient while I yelled at my phone because I forgot my password. If you're looking for a true professional, Mr. Heard is the person you should call.
nikhil sampat
7 months ago
Darryl is amazing! Extremely knowledgeable and on top of his game! He takes the the time to explain everything properly and then executes! Highly recommended!
Tasha A.
8 months ago
I have been getting my taxes a little over three years. Darrel has been amazing and I wouldn’t get my taxes done by anyone else.
I always seem to have so many questions and Darrel always seems to have the answers.
If you are looking for a company and person that will be honest and get your taxes completed in a timely manner… he is it.
Muriel Mapp
8 months ago
Daryl is amazing! Finding a new accountant online can be a scary process, but I was blown away by his professionalism, tax knowledge, quick response time and attention to detail. I will be using him for years to come for tax preparation!
J. Murphy
8 months ago
My go to specialist for all my tax and accounting needs! Highly recommend Heard and associates!
Nitwa Ronah
8 months ago
I had an excellent experience with Heard Associates this year for my taxes 2025. They were extremely knowledgeable, patient, and professional throughout the entire process. Every question I had was answered clearly, and they made sure I understood my options to maximize my return. The process was smooth, organized, and stress-free. I truly appreciate their attention to detail and dedication to helping their clients. I highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a trustworthy and reliable tax professional.
Elilian Cooper
8 months ago
This is my 5 year and he never disappoints me 🥰 great service
Lazy Mobandz
8 months ago
Mr heard is some one I would say is a high level professional and absolutely excellent at what he does his communication skills are outstanding and he always has a smile on his face just a great individual to work with his customer service skills made me double take at my customer service skill for my own business
Angelo Jr. Simonelli
8 months ago
This was out first time filing taxes with anyone other than turbo tax and it went great. Darryl was extremely helpful and quick when it came to filing. He was also quick to respond to any questions. If you are looking for someone to file your taxes Id highly recommend!
Key Brown
8 months ago
Going on my third consistent year with Darryl Heard and his services. He is very professional and precise with all of your documents. He is very informative and knowledgeable about what steps you should take. He provides education in every step of the process. Thank you for being an outstanding accountant, tax associate, and professional at all times.
Kyra Lane
8 months ago
I was recommended this tax person from my good friend Dena. I have used his services for the last two years so far. I haven’t had any issues. He was very professional and answered my questions in a timely manner. I will be continuing to use his services.
Jason Wiley
8 months ago
Very precise, business oriented, kind, and handled every aspect of business in a timely fashion, and communication was over the top.
johnesha Phillips
8 months ago
I have experienced exceptional customer service for the third consecutive year with Darrel handling my taxes. Darrel ensured I was updated throughout the entire process. My inquiries about taxes were met with prompt and professional responses. Overall, my experience with Heard's was outstanding, and I highly recommend his services.
Mary Chandler
8 months ago
Very professional. Great customer service. Always answers all my tax questions throughout the entire year. Fees are reasonable.
niya rayford
8 months ago
I’ve been a client for a few years & each year the experience gets better. The service is fast & convenient. He’s always there if you have questions & also gives the best financial advice. If I could give 10 stars I would!
Chelsea Denise
9 months ago
Very professional, efficient, and knowledgeable. Made tax season simple and stress-free. Highly recommend!
McKayla Shepherd
9 months ago
I will probably never file my taxes with anyone else but this company! They make everything so easy and convenient and the process takes no time! Thanks so much Daryl!
Antwon Williams
9 months ago
I’ve had an excellent experience working with Heard & Associates . He’s extremely knowledgeable, professional, and takes the time to explain everything clearly, which makes the entire process stress-free. He’s thorough, detail-oriented, and always make sure I’m getting the best possible outcome. Communication is quick and reliable, and I never feel rushed or confused. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a trustworthy and efficient tax professional.
Carmecia Mcknight
9 months ago
Darryl is very professional and prompt.
He was thorough and extremely knowledgeable. All questions were answered clearly, deadlines were met, and the entire process was seamless. I felt confident knowing my finances were handled with accuracy and care. I highly recommend his services.
Leann Solorio
9 months ago
Just did my taxes with Mr. Heard and he was kind and educational as well. Very nice office as well. Highly recommend going to him.
Martin vOJTEK
9 months ago
Darryl is amazing. He got me the best return I’ve ever had. He’s also so patient and kind and he will go out of his way to help with any issues that arise. I tell everyone I know to go to Darryl and sing his praises.
Gabrielle Benson
9 months ago
I found Darryl via online research with no referrals and I'm so glad I went with him! I needed to find someone who could handle my yearly tax preparation, but was also interested in future tax planning as I continue to grow financially. His team was super responsive, I got a response the same day and we scheduled a meeting for the next week. He was able to give me a price estimate and expected turnaround and my taxes were completed that day. He was knowledgable about any additional questions I had and communication was quick and thorough. I look forward to continue working with him!
Qinah S.
9 months ago
My people, my people! After being guided by Yah to "do something different this year", He led me to Heard & Associates. Darryl is accurate, efficient, responsive and pleasant, just to name a few of the key words when describing my experience with filing with this firm. Look no further! I encourage anyone who seeks a tax professional to connect with H&A asap. He was great!
nikhil sampat
9 months ago
Great experience! Very knowledgeable and helped out a lot! highly recommend
Najala Watson
10 months ago
Excellent service from start to finish. Darrel truly cares about his clients and goes above and beyond to make sure everything is done right. The process was stress-free, organized, and very thorough. It’s clear he’s passionate about helping individuals and small businesses succeed. I would definitely recommend him to anyone needing tax or accounting guidance.
Laquitta Williams
10 months ago
I had an excellent experience with Darrel Heard & Associates. From the moment I connected with them, I felt comfortable and confident that I was in good hands. They were patient, professional, and took the time to truly explain everything to me in a way that made sense. I never felt rushed or overlooked.
They were extremely thorough and detail-oriented, making sure everything was accurate and done in my best interest. What I appreciated most was how stress-free they made the entire process — that alone is priceless. I walked away feeling relieved, informed, and confident about my finances.
I highly recommend Darrel Heard & Associates to anyone looking for an accountant they can truly trust.
Brandon Atkins
10 months ago
I’ve had an excellent experience working with Heard and Associates for both my personal and business taxes. They are knowledgeable, professional, and extremely thorough. They take the time to explain everything clearly and make sure nothing is overlooked. Tax season is stress-free knowing I’m in good hands. I highly recommend Heard and Associates to anyone looking for a reliable and honest accounting firm.
Marilyn Lee
10 months ago
Mr. Heard was very professional and knowledgeable about his services he provided. The location was very easy to find as well. He gives great detail with various options to help suit your needs. I would definitely be recommending him to my colleagues, family, and friends. Thanks Again.
James Watson
10 months ago
I’ve had a great experience working with Mr. Heard. He’s knowledgeable, thorough, and made the entire process stress-free from start to finish. Everything was explained clearly, all deadlines were handled on time, and I felt confident knowing my return was done accurately. Communication was easy and professional, and he was always quick to answer any questions I had. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a reliable and trustworthy accountant.
FAQ
Questions about working with us
If your question is not here, ask us during a consultation.
Book a consultation →What if my industry is not listed?
We work with many businesses outside these categories. Most of the same principles apply, and our small business page is the right starting point. Book a consultation and tell us how your business earns and spends, and we will tell you exactly how we would handle it.
Do you specialize in one industry or many?
Our core work is the same for every client: accurate books, correct returns and planning before the year ends. The industry pages explain how we apply that work to the specific deductions, taxes and payroll rules each field carries.
Can you take over from my current accountant mid-year?
Yes. We request your prior returns and bookkeeping file, reconcile the current year and pick up from there. If the books need work first, our bookkeeping cleanup service gets them current.
Do I need to be in Chicago to work with you?
No. Many clients work with us through our secure portal and video calls. If you prefer to meet in person, we have offices in Chicago’s Hyde Park and in Olympia Fields.
Do you handle both the business and the owner’s personal taxes?
Yes, and we recommend it. When one firm prepares both, K-1s, owner salary and estimated payments line up, and planning covers the whole picture.
Book a consultation today
Tell us about your business and we will explain exactly how we handle the books, taxes and planning for your industry.