Steward Ingram & Cooper, PLLC was founded in 2000 by Patricia F. Steward, CPA/PFS and David F. Ingram, CPA. Since then, our CPAs have provided business tax accounting services to small and medium size businesses throughout the greater Raleigh area, with many client relationships existing in other states. Much of our work is handled through ongoing, month-to-month accounting relationships rather than a one-time service, which allows our CPAs to build a complete understanding of your account over time. We work with a range of industries, particularly service-based businesses such as medical practices, engineering firms, legal practices, and restaurants.
With a focus on accuracy and compliance, our small business accountants work closely with local business owners to develop tax strategies that align with their company’s financial goals. Because we provide this level of personalized attention to every account, we take on new clients selectively and evaluate availability on a case-by-case basis. Reach out to us at (919) 872-0866 to inquire whether we currently have the capacity to take on your business.
Small Business Accounting Solutions
Having a reliable accounting partner can help streamline business operations, ensure tax compliance, and provide valuable financial insights. At Steward Ingram & Cooper, PLLC, our CPAs have decades of experience providing accounting solutions to small businesses throughout the Research Triangle.

Financial Health Analysis
Understanding your business’s financial health is key to making informed decisions. Our financial health analysis services are individually tailored to provide a clear picture of your company’s profitability, cash flow, and overall financial position. By identifying strengths and potential risks, we help business owners take proactive steps to improve financial performance.
Financial Consulting Services
Strategic financial planning is essential for small business success. Our financial consulting services guide businesses through budgeting, forecasting, and decision-making processes to enhance profitability and sustainability.


Financial Statement Preparation
Accurate financial statements are crucial for tracking business performance and meeting regulatory requirements. Our experienced accounting professionals prepare essential financial documents, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports, ensuring compliance with accounting standards.
Tax Services
Navigating business taxes can be complex, but our tax planning and tax consulting services help simplify the process. We assist with tax preparation, planning, and compliance to minimize liabilities and maximize deductions. Our tax consulting services provide insights into tax-saving opportunities, ensuring your business remains compliant while optimizing its tax position.


General Ledger Assistance
A well-maintained general ledger is the foundation of accurate financial reporting. We help businesses organize, reconcile, and manage their general ledger to ensure financial data is reliable and up to date. By keeping records accurate, we support better financial decision-making and regulatory compliance.
Why Work with Our Business Tax Accountants?
Choosing the right business tax accountant from a local CPA firm is vital for accurate record keeping and can make filing much quicker. At Steward Ingram & Cooper, PLLC, we go beyond basic accounting services to provide strategic financial guidance tailored to your company’s needs.
Experienced Business Tax Accountants
Our team includes CPAs such as Jeffrey C. Cooper, David A. Hogg, and Stephanie B. Holt, who collectively bring decades of hands-on tax and accounting experience to Raleigh-area businesses. We’re members of the AICPA, the North Carolina Association of CPAs, and CPAconnect, and we follow Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) on every engagement.
Personalized Financial Guidance
Every business has unique financial needs, and our team takes the time to understand your specific goals before recommending a strategy. Whether you need help with tax planning, cash flow management, or long-term financial decisions, we build customized solutions rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. Our accountants work as trusted advisors, offering guidance tailored to your industry and financial objectives.
Commitment to Your Business’s Success
We build long-term relationships based on trust and reliability, with many clients staying with our firm for 10 to 30 years. From routine accounting services to complex financial decisions, our team is here to support your business at every stage of its growth.
FAQs
What is the difference between a CPA and an accountant?
All CPAs are accountants, but not all accountants are CPAs. All accountants monitor personal or business finances, keep records, and can issue financial statements.
The certified public accountant title shows that the accountant has sufficient knowledge, education, and experience and that they have passed their Uniform CPA Examination. CPAs are regulated by the state and must complete continued education to keep current with trends and updates.
What industries do you typically work with?
Most of our business clients are in service-based industries, including medical practices, engineering firms, and legal practices. However, we work with a range of other small and medium size businesses throughout Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Morrisville, so we tailor our approach to the reporting and compliance needs specific to your industry.
How much does outsourced accounting cost?
Costs depend on the scope and complexity of work. At our firm, individual tax returns start at a minimum of $1,000 and business tax returns start at a minimum of $1,750, with fees increasing for more complex situations. Ongoing accounting and bookkeeping engagements are quoted individually based on your business, after an initial conversation with our team. See our fee structure page for more details.
Do I need to meet with my accountant in person?
Not necessarily. The majority of our client relationships are handled virtually. We work with clients throughout Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Morrisville, as well as clients in other states and even other countries. If you prefer to meet face to face at our Morrisville office, just let us know!
What’s the difference between accounting services and bookkeeping?
Bookkeeping and accounting are both considered vital functions when it comes to improving the health and financial standing of your business. However, they each serve different functions. Both services work to improve the financial health of the business, but the difference is that accounting services are used to analyze data while bookkeeping is used to record the data.
How does Steward Ingram & Cooper assign clients to a specific accountant or CPA?
We match each client with the CPA or accountant best suited to their specific needs, whether that comes down to industry experience, the complexity of the return, or the type of ongoing support required.
Are you currently accepting new clients?
We take on new clients on a case-by-case basis. Because our team provides highly personalized service to each client, we’re selective about how many new relationships we can properly support at any given time. The best way to find out if we currently have capacity for your business is to reach out directly.
How do I get started with Steward Ingram & Cooper?
Call our office or fill out the contact form below to start the conversation. Many of our clients come to us through referrals from people we already work with, but we’re glad to hear from anyone interested in learning whether we’re a good fit for their accounting needs.