Accountants for High Net Worth Individuals
High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs)—typically defined as having $1M or more in liquid assets—require a different level of accounting. These aren’t just tax preparers. They’re strategic partners in preserving wealth, minimizing taxes, and managing complex financial structures across investments, trusts, and global holdings. Whether you're navigating estate planning or need a CPA for your family office, this list includes accountants and firms on Sam’s List who work directly with high-net-worth clients and their unique needs.
Need to outsource something else? Search for proactivefinancial advisorsandfractional CFOson Sam’s List too. Make sure to check the reviews, it’s one of the most important parts of your vetting process!
Need to outsource something else? Search for proactivefinancial advisorsandfractional CFOson Sam’s List too. Make sure to check the reviews, it’s one of the most important parts of your vetting process!
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What Does a High Net Worth Accountant Actually Do?
High-net-worth accounting is not just about compliance—it’s proactive, strategic, and deeply personalized. These professionals bring expertise in the following areas:
Advanced Tax Planning & Minimization
Use trusts, tax-loss harvesting, entity structuring, and charitable deductions to reduce exposure on investment, real estate, and business income.
Estate & Gift Tax Strategies
Collaborate with attorneys to preserve wealth, pass assets efficiently, and avoid estate tax penalties using trusts, gifting plans, and charitable foundations.
Family Office Services
Manage every aspect of wealth, from bill pay and investment oversight to multi-generational planning, reporting, and legacy coordination.
Charitable Giving & Philanthropy
Create structured donation strategies that align with personal values while optimizing tax advantages.
Global Income & Cross-Border Taxation
HNWIs with international ties need accountants who understand foreign asset reporting, FBAR, FATCA, and dual residency tax implications.
Advanced Tax Planning & Minimization
Use trusts, tax-loss harvesting, entity structuring, and charitable deductions to reduce exposure on investment, real estate, and business income.
Estate & Gift Tax Strategies
Collaborate with attorneys to preserve wealth, pass assets efficiently, and avoid estate tax penalties using trusts, gifting plans, and charitable foundations.
Family Office Services
Manage every aspect of wealth, from bill pay and investment oversight to multi-generational planning, reporting, and legacy coordination.
Charitable Giving & Philanthropy
Create structured donation strategies that align with personal values while optimizing tax advantages.
Global Income & Cross-Border Taxation
HNWIs with international ties need accountants who understand foreign asset reporting, FBAR, FATCA, and dual residency tax implications.
FrequentlyAsked Questions
How much money qualifies as high net worth?
A high-net-worth individual (HNWI) typically has at least $1 million in liquid financial assets. Ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) hold $30 million or more. Most tax planning and estate services for HNWIs begin around the $1M threshold.
What services do high-net-worth accountants provide?
In addition to tax preparation, HNW accountants specialize in proactive tax planning, estate and gift strategies, charitable trusts, investment analysis, and family office coordination.
How much does a high-end CPA cost for HNW services?
CPAs who serve high-net-worth clients often charge $300–$500/hour, or offer ongoing advisory retainers that range from $10,000 to $50,000+ annually depending on scope.
What’s the difference between a regular accountant and a high-net-worth specialist?
HNW specialists are equipped to handle complex investment portfolios, trusts, private foundations, and tax scenarios involving multiple states or countries. They also coordinate with estate attorneys, wealth managers, and private bankers.
How do I find the right accountant for my high net worth situation?
Look for someone with direct experience supporting clients at your asset level, especially those offering family office services, estate strategies, and multi-entity tax structuring. Start by reviewing professionals on Sam’s List.
Not sure who’s right for you as a high net worth individual? Answer a few quick questions, and we’ll introduce you to someone who fits.
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