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Your Trusted Accounting Partner in North Iowa
Murphy, Coe & Smith is a trusted accounting firm serving individuals, businesses, and farmers across North Iowa. Since our founding, we have prioritized understanding client goals and delivering tailored financial solutions. Our team combines big-firm expertise with personalized attention, driven by values of integrity, innovation, and excellence. With over 180 combined years of experience among our professionals, we ensure clients receive strategic guidance tailored to their unique needs. Accredited by the State of Iowa and participating in peer review programs, our firm maintains rigorous professional standards. We offer comprehensive services including tax preparation, accounting, consulting, and financial planning, supported by multiple office locations for client convenience.

Our commitment extends beyond tax season, providing year-round support to help clients achieve long-term financial success. Recognized for responsiveness and expertise, we serve diverse industries, including agriculture and small businesses. Through continuous education and adherence to evolving regulations, we maintain our position as a trusted local advisor in a dynamic financial landscape. Clients consistently recommend our team for reliable, personalized service.
Services
Tax Preparation Bookkeeping Financial Consulting Accounting Software Setup Estate Tax Planning
Highlights and features
  • Our team holds 183 combined years of accounting experience serving Iowa clients.
  • We maintain Iowa State Board of Accountancy licensure with annual continuing education.
  • Four convenient office locations across North Iowa ensure accessible service.
  • Peer-reviewed quality control processes guarantee professional standards compliance.
  • Personalized service combines small-firm responsiveness with big-firm expertise.
Associations and certifications
  • State of Iowa Permit to Practice
  • Iowa Society of Certified Public Accountants
What people say
Quick, easy service Willing to help Expertise in business consultation Very responsive High quality work
Services
Tax Preparation
Our comprehensive tax solutions cover personal and business needs, including preparation, planning, and problem resolution. Certified professionals stay current with evolving regulations to ensure compliance and optimize returns. We specialize in individual, business, and estate tax planning with a focus on accuracy and client education.
Bookkeeping
We provide complete bookkeeping and accounting services including financial statement preparation, payroll processing, and accounting software implementation. Our team maintains organized financial records to support informed business decisions, with expertise in transitioning traditional systems to digital platforms.
Financial Consulting
From start-up guidance to business succession planning, our consulting services cover financial strategy, entity selection, and growth planning. We offer customized solutions for business owners seeking to improve operations, cash flow, and long-term sustainability through data-driven analysis.
IRS Representation
Our certified professionals handle IRS and state tax controversies including audits, collections issues, and penalty abatement. We advocate for clients before tax authorities, leveraging deep knowledge of tax code to achieve favorable resolutions while maintaining compliance standards.
Estate Planning
We provide specialized estate and trust tax planning services, helping clients protect assets and minimize tax liabilities. Our approach combines financial projections with legal considerations to create tailored succession plans that align with personal and family objectives.
People
Lou Ann Murphy
Partner
Lou Ann Murphy has served as a Partner at Murphy, Coe & Smith since 1989, overseeing the Osage and Nashua offices. Her extensive experience in public accounting provides clients with strategic financial guidance and compliance expertise.
Amy Coe
Partner
Amy Coe, a Partner since 2002, specializes in building long-term client relationships in the Osage office. Her expertise spans business consulting and tax strategy, focusing on personalized solutions for complex financial situations.
Christopher Smith
Partner
Christopher Smith joined the firm in 2008 as a Partner, managing the Osage and Riceville offices. With deep experience in tax compliance and business advisory services, he focuses on delivering strategic financial solutions to agricultural clients.
Josie Hrdlicka
Partner
Josie Hrdlicka became a Partner in 2022 after a decade of service in the Cresco office. She specializes in individual tax preparation and provides personalized support to clients in Northeast Iowa.
Lisa Brandau
Accountant
Lisa Brandau joined Murphy, Coe & Smith in 2022, bringing 30 years of accounting experience. A graduate of the University of North Dakota, she provides comprehensive tax and accounting services to individuals and businesses.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer?
We provide bookkeeping, tax preparation, financial consulting, IRS representation, and business advisory services tailored to individuals and businesses.
Can you help with complex tax situations?
Yes, our team specializes in resolving tax problems and offers strategic planning for complex business and estate tax matters.
Where are your offices located?
We have four Iowa locations in Osage, Nashua, Riceville, and Cresco for client convenience.
How experienced is your team?
Our professionals hold 183 combined years of experience with ongoing continuing education in tax law and accounting standards.
Do you offer year-round financial support?
Yes, we provide continuous support beyond tax season, including payroll services and strategic financial planning.