Business Details
24 Years
experience
Your Trusted Accounting Partner in Kingston, NY
At Merck & Shumen CPAs, we combine the experience of a large firm with the personalized attention that only a small practice can provide. Our team of certified professionals brings decades of combined expertise in tax planning, accounting, and consulting services tailored to both businesses and individuals. We prioritize long-term relationships, ensuring clients receive strategic guidance to navigate complex financial landscapes. Our services include federal and state tax compliance, business succession planning, payroll management, and financial reporting, all delivered with a commitment to accuracy and client education.With a focus on minimizing tax liabilities and maximizing cash flow, we serve as trusted advisors to help clients achieve their financial goals. Our teams credentials, including ABV and PFS designations, underscore our dedication to excellence. We operate from Kingston, NY, serving local and regional clients while maintaining a client-centric approach that emphasizes transparency and proactive communication.
Services
Tax Services
Accounting Services
Consulting Services
Bookkeeping
Payroll Services
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of combined experience in tax and accounting services.
- Our team holds specialized certifications, including ABV and PFS designations.
- We provide tailored strategies to minimize tax liabilities and maximize cash flow.
- Our client-centric approach ensures personalized service and proactive communication.
- We utilize advanced tools for payroll, bookkeeping, and financial reporting efficiency.
Associations and certifications
- NYSSCPA
- ABV
- PFS
Services
Tax Services
Our Tax Services focus on federal and state compliance, strategic planning, and audit representation. We help businesses and individuals minimize liabilities through tailored strategies, including research credit calculations and international tax guidance. With expertise in business succession planning and cost segregation studies, we ensure clients optimize deductions and cash flow while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Accounting Services
We offer full-cycle accounting services, including bookkeeping, payroll management, and financial statement preparation. Our team ensures accurate record-keeping, real-time financial insights, and compliance with reporting standards. By automating payroll and tax filings, we reduce administrative burdens, allowing clients to focus on core operations while maintaining fiscal transparency.
Consulting Services
Our Consulting Services provide strategic guidance on financial processes, risk management, and business development. We assist with purchase price allocations, asset impairment testing, and insolvency proceedings, combining technical expertise with actionable insights. Clients benefit from customized solutions to enhance operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and long-term growth.
Bookkeeping
Bookkeeping services include general ledger maintenance, adjusting entries, and system setup for new businesses. We streamline financial tracking through digital tools, ensuring timely and accurate data for informed decision-making. Our team also trains clients on online banking and bill payment systems to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact through paperless operations.
Payroll Services
We manage payroll processing, tax filings, and compliance reporting for businesses of all sizes. Our electronic systems handle withholdings, direct deposits, and state/federal filings, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Clients receive automated reports and expert guidance on payroll regulations, reducing administrative stress and ensuring adherence to evolving tax laws.
People
Richard J. Merck
Managing Director & Founder
Richard J. Merck, CPA, ABV, PFS, founded Merck & Shumen CPAs in 2002. With expertise in tax planning, business valuation, and IRS representation, he combines 30+ years of experience with a personalized approach. A former KPMG professional, he specializes in strategic financial solutions for individuals and corporations.
Donald L. Shumen III
Director
Donald L. Shumen III, CPA, joined the firm in 2004 and became a shareholder in 2013. He specializes in tax consulting for corporations, partnerships, and nonprofits. A Marist College graduate, he focuses on compliance and planning, leveraging his expertise to deliver precise, client-focused solutions for complex financial scenarios.
Leslie Lohrer
Bookkeeping Supervisor
Leslie Lohrer brings 20+ years of bookkeeping experience, managing payroll, sales tax, and paperless initiatives. She trains clients on digital tools to enhance efficiency and ensures accurate financial reporting. Her background includes small business support and system optimization to simplify client operations.
Arleen M. Schenck
Office Manager
Arleen M. Schenck oversees billing, accounts receivable, and client mediation with taxing entities. With IRS E-Services certification since 2004, she assists in resolving tax notices. Her 25+ years at the firm include roles in legal administration and community advocacy, ensuring seamless client support.
Evan P. Hapeman
Accountant
Evan P. Hapeman handles corporate, nonprofit, and individual tax returns, alongside bookkeeping and auditing. A SUNY New Paltz graduate, he began his career in high school, preparing returns, and now provides comprehensive tax and financial services to diverse clients.
Questions
What services does Merck & Shumen CPAs offer?
We provide tax planning, accounting, bookkeeping, payroll services, and business consulting tailored to individuals and businesses.
Are you available during tax season?
Yes, from January 1 to April 15, we are open Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00 and Saturday 10:00-3:00.
Do you serve clients outside Kingston, NY?
Yes, we serve clients in Saugerties, Red Hook, Woodstock, and surrounding areas.
What certifications do your team members hold?
Our team includes CPAs with ABV (Accredited Business Valuation) and PFS (Personal Financial Specialist) designations.
Reviews (2)
Steve Dock
Oct 29, 2021
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It started off strong with these guys but became less communicative over time as their business grew. Our 2020 return was a disaster. They didn't have experience with the real estate rental business particularly short term rentals and allocating expense vs capital. They treated all of my real estate income as passive, ignored things like mileage and over capitalized spreading my expenses over 27 years. All of these things resulted in a $40k tax bill. Someone else is redoing the return because when I corrected them and they agreed, they refused to amend the return. Be careful with these guys!
Megan F.
Feb 13, 2019
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Richard and Don are professional, approachable, and knowledgeable about all things financial & tax related. They both are continuously and completely competent in the ever changing tax laws. I highly recommend you make an appointment with them. While there is never a need to be nervous about your taxes, Richard happily supplies lollipops and "figits" so that all clients are at ease! Make Merck & Shumen YOUR CPAs!!
