Call Now
Website
Call
Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Accounting Partner in Cherokee, IA
Founded in 1967, Burkhardt & Dawson has established itself as a trusted accounting firm in Cherokee, IA. Our mission centers on delivering high-quality, long-term professional services tailored to individual and business clients. With a team of certified public accountants and experienced professionals, we prioritize personalized attention, ensuring every client receives strategic guidance aligned with their financial goals. Our expertise spans tax planning, financial statement preparation, payroll services, and outsourced CFO consulting, supported by decades of industry experience. We emphasize collaboration, working closely with clients across diverse sectors including agriculture, healthcare, and non-profits.

Our commitment to innovation is reflected in our use of secure digital tools like CPA Safe, enabling seamless client access to critical documents. As a locally owned firm, we value community relationships and have expanded our team through strategic partnerships, including the addition of new partners in 2023. Our approach combines technical excellence with a dedication to resolving complex financial challenges efficiently. We maintain rigorous professional standards, ensuring compliance and transparency in all services provided. This foundation of trust and expertise has driven our growth through client referrals, solidifying our reputation as a leader in Northwest Iowa's accounting sector.
Services
Financial Statements Income Tax Services Accounting Services Payroll Services Outsourced CFO Consulting Trust & Estate Planning QuickBooks & Sage Support Business Consulting
Details
  • Year established: 1967
Highlights and features
  • CPA-certified team with over 50 combined years of experience
  • Secure digital document management via CPA Safe platform
  • Specialized services for agriculture, healthcare, and non-profit sectors
  • Personalized tax planning strategies to maximize savings
  • Proven track record of client growth through referrals
Services
Financial Statements
We provide comprehensive financial statement services including audits, reviews, and compilations. Our CPAs help clients determine the appropriate engagement type, guiding them through planning to final delivery of professional opinions. With decades of experience, we ensure accurate reporting and compliance for businesses of all sizes.
Income Tax Services
Our experienced team offers strategic tax planning and preparation for individuals and businesses. We specialize in resolving IRS/state notices and amending prior returns. Services include free e-filing, multi-state tax compliance, and year-round planning to maximize savings while maintaining full regulatory compliance.
Payroll Services
We handle complete payroll processing including direct deposits, tax filings, and regulatory compliance. Our services cover W-2 processing, multi-state reporting, workers' compensation audits, and Simple IRA administration. Clients receive timely, accurate payroll management with dedicated support for tax credit programs like WOTC.
Outsourced CFO Consulting
This service provides businesses with expert financial leadership without hiring in-house staff. Our CPAs offer board meeting attendance, strategic planning, and customized financial management. Services include budgeting, business expansion planning, and succession strategy development for organizations seeking professional financial oversight.
Trust & Estate Planning
We assist in creating effective estate plans to minimize taxes and simplify asset transfer. Our CPAs collaborate with attorneys to draft trust documents, prepare estate tax returns, and implement strategies that reduce probate costs. Services focus on preserving wealth for beneficiaries through professional tax and financial planning.
People
Donna Burkhardt
Partner, CPA
Certified Public Accountant since 1991 with over 40 years of experience. Specializes in building long-term client relationships and providing strategic business advice.
Laura Dawson
Partner, CPA
CPA with 40+ years of experience, focusing on accounting services for local businesses. Brings deep expertise in financial planning and client advisory services.
Morgan Gravenish
Partner, CPA
Certified Public Accountant since 2013 with specialized knowledge in tax compliance and business consulting. Provides strategic financial guidance to diverse industry clients.
Brandon Henke
Partner, CPA
Master's degree holder in accounting with expertise in tax strategy and financial reporting. Focuses on delivering comprehensive solutions for business clients.
Amber Thorson
Accountant, CPA
Certified Public Accountant with 15+ years of experience. Specializes in accounting systems implementation and financial statement preparation for small businesses.
Questions
What is CPA Safe and how does it work?
CPA Safe is our secure document exchange platform. Clients receive login credentials to upload or access tax documents 24/7 with 256-bit SSL encryption protection.
How do I recover my CPA Safe password?
Use the 'Forgot Password?' link on the login page. Follow the prompts to reset your password securely.
Can I get a copy of my old tax returns?
Yes, all completed tax returns are available through CPA Safe. We do not email copies for security reasons.
What accounting software do you support?
We work with QuickBooks Online and Sage. We offer setup, training, and ongoing support for these platforms.
What industries do you specialize in?
We serve agriculture, construction, healthcare providers, non-profits, entrepreneurs, and rural water districts.
Do you offer business consulting services?
Yes, we provide strategic consulting for business sales, expansions, succession planning, and budgeting.