Ah, taxes. It’s that time of year again. As Benjamin Franklin famously wrote, “Nothing is certain except death and taxes.” It is also certain, however, that most of us really don’t like dealing with filing our income taxes each year by that looming April 15 deadline. That’s where the pros come in. A good CPA can take the pain out of untangling all those IRS codes and make sure you’re maximizing all the available credits to keep your hard-earned money in your own pocket.
So who is the best for Tax Preparation Services in Colorado Springs? You voted in our annual People’s Choice Awards, choosing the Top 3 and top Winner Lockhart & Powell, CPAs. For some tax prep tips, we talked with Brandon Lockhart. Here’s what he had to say about finding a trusted pro and easing those Tax Day blues.
3 Questions with Tax Pro Brandon Lockhart
1. What is your best general tax tip for people?
Don’t wait until tax season to think about taxes. Great tax results almost always come from year‑round planning, not scrambling in March or April. Keep good records, track life changes (like job shifts, marriage, home purchases or starting a business), and check in with a professional before major financial decisions. A short proactive conversation can save far more money and stress than any last‑minute strategy.
2. Who needs a tax preparer? At what point is it better to get help instead of doing your own taxes?
If your tax situation is simple — W‑2 wages, basic deductions and no major changes — DIY software often works fine.
But you should consider a tax professional when things get more complex, including:
• Starting or owning a business
• Having investment income, rentals or multiple states
• Life changes like marriage, divorce, inheritance or retirement
• Significant income changes, stock compensation or crypto transactions
• Wanting proactive planning, not just form filing
A good rule: If you aren’t 100% confident you understand the tax impact of your decisions — or if tax season stresses you out — you’ll almost always benefit from a professional.
3. Most people are intimidated by taxes. Why do you do what you do?
I enjoy taking something that feels stressful or confusing for most people and turning it into something manageable and even empowering. Taxes affect nearly every big decision in life — income, investments, businesses, retirement — and I love helping people feel in control of that part of their finances.
For me, it’s not just about forms and numbers. It’s about giving people peace of mind, saving them money, and helping them build a stronger financial future. That’s incredibly rewarding, and it’s why I do what I do.
People’s Choice: Best Tax Preparation Services
Winner: Lockhart & Powell, CPAs
The team of CPAs at Lockhart & Powell have been providing personalized tax and accounting service to Colorado businesses and individuals since 1986. What began at RS Powell is now a family‑led firm under the leadership of dual‑CPAs Megan and Brandon Lockhart.From their office near Garden of the Gods Road and I-25, the team serves clients in the Springs, Denver and along the Front Range. They regularly do annual tax returns for individuals and businesses, and they specialize in bookkeeping, payroll management and year-round financial support for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Top 3 Finalist: Bradshaw and Associates, PLLC
Bradshaw & Associates offers tax prep and returns for individuals and specializes in comprehensive tax planning services for for-profit companies, nonprofit organizations, trusts and estates. That includes bookkeeping and payroll services, QuickBooks training and more. Their office is located near Academy and Dublin Boulevard.
Top 3 Finalist: Jackson Hewitt
When it comes to convenience, Jackson Hewitt has you covered. The large nationwide chain has 13 locations to choose from locally from Fountain to Monument, the Westside to Falcon. Many are located inside Walmart stores. You can book an appointment online or choose drop off service, and many locations offer Spanish-speaking services.
Find all of our People’s Choice Awards winners here.
