An Austin CPA You Can Actually Talk To
Reed Covar, CPA
TITLE
Associate Principal
HOMETOWN
Edgefield, SC
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
8
EDUCATION
Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.
Beginning his career at a southeastern regional firm in Columbia, SC, Reed honed his skills from 2017 to 2020. He then transitioned to a specialized role at a firm focusing on Medicare and Medicaid cost reporting, long-term care facilities, and nursing homes, where he provided crucial support in the preparation of audited financial statements and tax returns. Most recently, Reed served at LZ Tax, a subsidiary of LegalZoom, Inc., where he played a key role in supporting small to medium-sized business owners, contributing to product development, enhancing customer engagement, and leading a team of 10 associates. Currently residing in Houston, TX, Reed enjoys life with his partner and their 1-year-old Boxer dog, Layla. He is passionate about continuous learning and personal growth, with aspirations to become fluent in Spanish before turning 40. Outside of work, Reed enjoys exploring the great outdoors, visiting national parks, playing golf, and practicing the piano. A frequent traveler, he finds solace in visiting the Caribbean, especially the island of St. John, at least once a year.
Specialties
Tax Strategy & Planning
Business & Personal Tax Strategy
Multi-State Tax
Cryptocurrency NFTs
Rental Properties
1031 Exchange
Industries
Real Estate
Construction
Professional Services
First Class Tax & Accounting Advisory from Your Austin CPA
Austin’s booming economy—driven by technology, real estate, healthcare, creative industries, and a thriving small business community—brings both opportunity and complexity. Whether you’re an individual managing wealth or a business owner scaling in Central Texas, your dedicated Austin CPA is here to help. We deliver proactive tax strategy, accounting advisory, and compliance expertise designed to reduce liabilities, improve clarity, and support sustainable growth.
REED COVAR CPA, ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
"At Dark Horse CPAs, we combine collaboration and individual autonomy to create an ideal environment for delivering personalized, high-quality tax and accounting advisory services. My goal is to ensure that each client receives maximum value from their relationship with their CPA. When you work with me, you'll not only enjoy a direct, one-on-one connection but also tap into the collective knowledge and resources of the entire team, allowing us to provide tailored solutions that best serve your financial needs. I serve clients in San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, and the surrounding areas, providing top-tier accounting services to businesses and individuals alike."
80%
Net Promoter Score
The average NPS for accounting firms is 38%. At Dark Horse, 80% of our clients would recommend us to a friend.
Net Promoter Score
Companies use this metric to gauge how happy their customers are with their services. It's calculated by taking the percentage of "promoters" minus the % of "detractors. "The average NPS score for the accounting industry is 39%, less than the DMV! We believe it's important to share that we have successfully fulfilled our promise to WOW clients and consistently monitor this metric to ensure we continue to deliver on the highest level.
550+
5-Star Reviews
Our Google and Yelp reviews speak for themselves. Our goal is to provide 5-star service to every client, every time.
5-Star Reviews
When someone shares their experience with us online, we find it extremely valuable to know where we've exceeded expectations and where we can improve. Many of our clients decide to engage with us as a result of reading about other Dark Horse clients’ experiences. Even when things do not go as planned, we do everything we can to make it right.
90%
Retention Rate
We're all about creating long-lasting, value-added relationships.
Retention Rate
This is the frequency of repeat business from our clients that work with us. This means that 9 out of 10 clients use us for subsequent years. That shows us that people enjoy working with our CPAs, are pleased with the work, and want to continue with Dark Horse over the long term.
Tax Strategy & Compliance for Austin Locals
The Problem: Too many Austinites only see the impact of taxes at filing time—whether it’s an unexpected balance due, a smaller refund, or realizing they missed valuable tax-saving opportunities. While Texas has no state income tax, individuals still face federal compliance, real estate considerations, and investment-related planning, which can create complexity without the right advisor.
At Dark Horse CPAs, we believe in No Surprises. We work proactively with Austin individuals and families to minimize federal tax liability, optimize wealth strategies, and ensure compliance. From retirement and investment planning to real estate and multi-state filings, every engagement includes forward-looking tax strategy so you’re always ahead, never reactive.
REED COVAR, CPA, ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
“Many CPAs overlook regular client check-ins, but proactive reviews are key to uncovering opportunities and optimizing tax planning. At minimum, every engagement should include an annual review. This ensures you maximize your CPA relationship, achieve tax savings, and gain clarity for the future.”
Tax Strategy & Accounting Solutions for Austin Businesses
The Problem: Many Austin business owners lack timely, accurate data—or the tax strategy needed to stay competitive. While Texas’s lack of state income tax simplifies some aspects, businesses still face federal compliance, sales and franchise taxes, payroll requirements, and industry-specific regulations. Without proactive guidance, it’s easy to miss savings or expose your business to risk.
At Dark Horse CPAs, we combine bookkeeping, tax compliance, and proactive tax planning for Austin businesses. From managing franchise tax filings and federal obligations to providing cash flow management, growth strategies, and Fractional CFO-level advisory, we give you the clarity and insight to make informed, tax-smart decisions year-round. With our Advisory-First approach, you’ll have a partner invested in your long-term success in Austin’s competitive marketplace.
REED COVAR, CPA, ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
“Many businesses view accounting and tax as separate, but every financial move impacts your tax return. Integrating business accounting and tax advisory uncovers savings, improves accuracy, and drives smarter decisions. This unified approach streamlines workflows and strengthens overall financial health.”
Nancy R.
I have used James Larsen as my CPA for many years and am confident in his work ethic and tax knowledge.
Blogs and Pods
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Blog
Why It's So Hard to Find a Good Accountant and Who is Taking on New Clients?
VLOG
Transforming the CPA Landscape: Darkhorse CPA’s Innovative Model for Growth and Success
Podcast
SPEED ROUND: 1031 Exchanges
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