A Montana CPA You Can Actually Talk To

Certifications

Certified Public Accountant

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Sarah Schiewe, CPA

406-287-6417

sarah@darkhorse.cpa

TITLE

Principal

HOMETOWN

Pine Mountain Club, CA

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

16

EDUCATION

Life is like accounting; everything must be balanced.

— Unknown

Sarah Schiewe has been an accountant since the age of eight. And no, this wasn't forced child labor, but rather a natural inclination and interest that started with tracking her allowance, which turned into reading personal finance books which turned into an accounting degree, a CPA license and a fulfilling career.

The aspect of her career she finds most fulfilling is working with small business owners to help them understand their finances, taxes and business performance. She then empowers them to use that knowledge to make more money and keep more from Uncle Sam. Seeing these business owners go from a state of fear and overwhelm to one of confident sophistication is what makes her day.

When she's not balancing the books, you might find her referencing a cookbook (not to be confused with "cooking the books") while fixin' up something tasty. Or, you might find her on a hike with the hubby and their dog (an 8-year-old Borador) in tow, dutifully herding squirrels along the way.

Specialties

Strategic Tax Planning

Business Tax Strategy

1031 Exchange

Multi-State Filings

Cryptocurrency

Financial Statement Compilations

Industries

Real Estate

Professional Services

Health & Fitness

Franchises

Technology

Your Billings CPA for Tax & Accounting Advisory

Billings is Montana’s largest business hub, with a strong economy built on energy, healthcare, agriculture, and small business growth. Whether you’re managing a family-owned business, investing in real estate, or planning for your financial future, your dedicated Billings CPA, Sarah Schiewe, is here to help.

As a Principal at Dark Horse CPAs, Sarah provides more than tax compliance. She delivers proactive tax planning, personalized accounting advisory, and business solutions tailored to Billings entrepreneurs, professionals, and families. From navigating IRS requirements to creating long-term strategies for growth, Sarah is a trusted partner committed to helping you achieve clarity and confidence in your finances.

Talk to a Montana CPA

Tax Strategy & Accounting Solutions for Montana Businesses

The Problem: Too many Montana business owners operate without timely, accurate financial data—or without the tax planning strategies that protect profits. Montana’s corporate income tax, property tax rules, and federal compliance requirements make tax planning essential for businesses in agriculture, healthcare, and energy. Without proactive guidance, businesses risk overpaying and underperforming.

At Dark Horse CPAs, we combine bookkeeping, tax compliance, and forward-looking tax strategy for Montana businesses. From managing Montana business tax filings and IRS requirements to providing cash flow planning, tax-smart growth strategies, and Fractional CFO-level advisory, we deliver the insight you need to make informed decisions. With our Advisory-First approach, you gain a trusted partner committed to your business success in Montana’s competitive market.

Solutions for Businesses

Tax Strategy & Compliance for Montana Locals

The Problem: Many Billings residents wait until tax time to uncover surprises—whether it’s owing more than expected, receiving a smaller refund, or realizing they missed opportunities to save. And while Montana has no sales tax, individuals must still navigate state income tax, property taxes, and federal filings, which can be complex without the right advisor.

At Dark Horse CPAs, we believe in No Surprises. We work year-round with Billings individuals and families to reduce tax liability, ensure compliance, and plan ahead. From Montana state income tax filings to real estate, retirement, and investment planning, every engagement includes personalized tax strategy so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Tax & Wealth Advisory for Individuals

Nancy R.

I have used James Larsen as my CPA for many years and am confident in his work ethic and tax knowledge.

Kyle T.

With our prior accountant we didn't feel we were receiving adequate tax guidance and felt we were always paying more than our fair share of taxes. We have been very pleased with the service we have received with Adam Ripperdan. He has taken the time to review in detail our current situation and upcoming plans. With that information he has helped us create tax strategies for our businesses, investments, and personal taxes that not only help us save on taxes but also helps us plan for the future. I highly recommend Dark Horse CPAs.

Patrick W.

I was referred to Max by a friend who is also a small business owner. I was definitely in need of direction when it came to my finances. After speaking with Max I was able to understand how I can be efficient in the accounting side of my business and he and his team is there to guide me every step of the way. I'm now confident I have the right team watching my books I highly recommend Max and Dark Horse CPAs.

Marisa M.

I had the pleasure of working with Stella and she was absolutely incredible. I had received what I suspected was bad advice from a previous tax preparer, and I was looking for another professional opinion on a specific tax situation. I found Dark Horse and Stella and I couldn't be happier. Stella confirmed what I had suspected about the previous tax situation being handled incorrectly by my former preparer at a different firm, and helped me fix the problem. Stella was prompt, exceedingly professional, and actually took the time to explain everything. Prices for services are fair. I am thrilled to have found a knowledgeable, trustworthy tax advisor and I look forward to continue working with Stella in the future.

Susan H.

Megan, Kim and staff were very prompt filing our business and personal taxes. The secure email site to upload our documents was very user friendly. The staff was also extremely prompt answering our questions through email and on the phone. In addition, Megan met with us personally a couple of times several months in advance to map out a plan for our business and personal taxes. Thank you all!

Quinn R.

We signed on with Adam's accounting group after bouncing around trying to find the right 'fit' with other companies. I knew immediately that we found what we needed when Adam took the time to sit down and talk to me about my business, my plans, my goals and where I wanted my company to be in the next 2, 5, 10 years. Adam and his team are responsive - and by that, I mean proactive - which is probably the single best reason to use Dark Horse. After 8 years and 3 different accounting firms we found what we need with Dark Horse.

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