A Little Rock CPA You Can Actually Talk To

Certifications

Certified Public Accountant
Certified Global Management Accountant
Certified Internal Auditor
Hunter/Jumper

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Susan Snowden, CPA

205-236-6917 susan@darkhorse.cpa LinkedIn

Title Principal

Hometown Tuscaloosa, AL

Years of Experience 31+

Education

In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing.

— Theodore Roosevelt

Ready for a great conversation? Susan brings a unique energy not seen in many accountants that makes collaboration seamless. Combining that with deep experience in the financial accounting field makes her an indispensable advisor to her clients—one that truly drives positive change and results.

Susan earned a degree in accounting from Clemson University (Go Tigers!) in 1995 and earned her CPA license in 1998. Her first 18 years of her career were mainly dedicated to both internal and external financial statement audits. She then transitioned into a role that would eventually see her as the CFO for the City of Tuscaloosa (Roll Tide?), where she spent the last six years.

But how did she end up at Dark Horse? Having spent her career primarily working with larger organizations, Susan decided she wanted to use her skillset to serve small businesses that she found were chronically underserved. Curiously enough, she happened upon Dark Horse CPAs while looking to see if the same name was available for her own practice. After realizing how aligned Dark Horse’s mission was with her own, joining the firm was a natural next step.

Of course, it doesn’t hurt that she also owns a couple of horses. Susan and Dark Horse CPAs go together like biscuits and gravy.

Read Full Bio

Specialties

Forecasting and Budgeting
Cash Flow Analysis
Reporting and KPIs
Strategic Advisory
Financial Statement Compilations

Industries

Real Estate
Non-Profits
Government
Construction
Professional Services

Book a Meeting

Susan Snowden, CPA , Principal

205-236-6917 susan@darkhorse.cpa LinkedIn

Title Principal

Hometown Tuscaloosa, AL

Years of Experience 31+

Education

In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing.

— Theodore Roosevelt

Read Full Bio

Certifications

Certified Public Accountant
Certified Global Management Accountant
Certified Internal Auditor
Hunter/Jumper

Specialties

Forecasting and Budgeting
Cash Flow Analysis
Reporting and KPIs
Strategic Advisory
Financial Statement Compilations

Industries

Real Estate
Non-Profits
Government
Construction
Professional Services

First Class Fractional CFO Services from Your Little Rock CPA

Little Rock’s economy is fueled by healthcare, government, transportation, and a growing small business community. Whether you’re an individual planning for the future or a business owner navigating Arkansas’s tax and compliance landscape, your dedicated Little Rock CPAs at Dark Horse are here to help. We deliver proactive tax strategy, outsourced accounting, and Fractional CFO services to minimize liabilities, improve clarity, and support long-term financial success.

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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.

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

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

90%

Retention Rate

We're all about creating long-lasting, value-added relationships.

Retention Rate

Tax Strategy & Accounting Solutions for Little Rock Businesses

The Problem: Many Little Rock business owners lack timely, accurate financials—or the strategic guidance needed to grow. Arkansas businesses must manage state corporate income tax, franchise tax, sales and use tax, payroll obligations, and federal compliance, all of which can add complexity and risk without expert support.

The Solution: At Dark Horse CPAs, we combine bookkeeping, tax compliance, and CFO-level advisory for Little Rock businesses. From managing Arkansas franchise tax and sales/use filings to delivering cash flow forecasting, KPI reporting, and growth strategies, we provide the clarity and insight you need to make tax-smart, growth-focused decisions. With our Advisory-First approach, you gain a trusted CPA partner committed to your success in Central Arkansas.

Solutions for Businesses

Susan Snowden, CPA, Principal

Arkansas businesses carry a heavier compliance load than most realize, franchise tax, state income tax, payroll, and sales and use tax all running in parallel. Our job is to make sure that complexity never becomes a barrier to growth.

Tax Strategy & Compliance for Little Rock Locals

The Problem: Too many Arkansans only realize the full impact of taxes at filing time—whether it’s owing more than expected, missing deductions, or overlooking tax-saving opportunities. With Arkansas’s state income tax, property tax obligations, and complex federal requirements, staying compliant while reducing liability can feel overwhelming.

The Solution: At Dark Horse CPAs, we believe in No Surprises. We work proactively with individuals and families across Little Rock to minimize liability, ensure compliance, and create forward-looking strategies. From Arkansas state income tax filings to retirement planning, investment strategy, and estate planning, every engagement includes tailored tax strategy so you can plan with confidence.

Tax & Wealth Advisory for Individuals

Susan Snowden, CPA, Principal

Tax season shouldn't be the first time you're thinking about your tax bill. Little Rock families and professionals deserve a CPA who's watching the numbers all year, so there are no surprises and every opportunity to save is on the table.

Fractional CFO Services in Little Rock, AR

Little Rock businesses in healthcare, agriculture, logistics, and professional services often reach a stage where a bookkeeper or controller is no longer enough - but a full-time CFO hire is not yet justified. Dark Horse CPA provides virtual CFO and fractional CFO services to Little Rock companies at that inflection point.

Our Little Rock CFO advisory covers the full spectrum of financial leadership: monthly close management, cash flow forecasting, budget-to-actual analysis, lender and investor reporting, and strategic counsel for business decisions. Susan Snowden, our Little Rock market CPA, brings 31+ years of experience to every engagement.

Susan Snowden, CPA, Principal

Little Rock businesses in healthcare, logistics, and professional services are growing fast, but I see owners making major financial decisions without a clear picture of their numbers. That's exactly the gap fractional CFO support is built to close.

Fractional CFO FAQs: Little Rock, AR

What does a virtual CFO service in Little Rock Arkansas include?

A virtual CFO engagement with Dark Horse CPA includes monthly financial review, rolling cash flow forecasting, KPI reporting, and regular strategic calls with your leadership team. All work is performed remotely, integrating with your existing accounting system and team.

How is a fractional CFO different from my current CPA or accountant?

Your current CPA likely focuses on tax compliance and historical reporting. A fractional CFO is forward-looking - focused on financial strategy, operational metrics, financing decisions, and helping you use your financial data to run the business better. The two roles complement each other.

Can Dark Horse CPA help prepare my Little Rock business for a bank loan or SBA financing?

Yes. Lender preparation is one of the highest-value services we provide. We help Little Rock businesses build the financial packages, cash flow projections, and management narratives that banks and SBA lenders need to approve financing.

What does a fractional CFO do for a Little Rock Arkansas business?

A fractional CFO provides Little Rock businesses with senior financial leadership: monthly financial reporting, cash flow management, KPI development, budget oversight, and strategic counsel for major business decisions. Susan Snowden, our Little Rock market CPA with 31+ years of experience, leads these engagements - providing CFO-caliber expertise that most Little Rock businesses could not access through a full-time hire.

How much do fractional CFO services cost in Little Rock AR?

Fractional CFO engagements in Little Rock are priced as monthly retainers based on scope and hours. For Arkansas businesses, this model is significantly more affordable than a full-time CFO hire. Engagements can be sized from light monthly oversight to comprehensive CFO support during a financing event or ownership transition. Contact us to discuss what your company needs.

Nancy R.

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

Jude T.

After years of feeling underwhelmed by every tax professional I worked with, we finally found Chris Ries at Dark Horse. We did a wide search for a CPA who could handle both our business and personal needs. Chris stood out from the start. He's not just deeply knowledgeable about tax law - he's genuinely thoughtful and strategic in how he applies it to your specific situation. What truly sets Chris apart is how responsive and engaged he is throughout the entire year. Our strategy sessions allowed us to get ahead of issues long before tax season, which made the whole process significantly smoother and less stressful.

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.

David H.

Chris is exceptional. He is far more professional, clear in his communication, and knowledgeable than any CPA I’ve worked with. He has expertly managed both my personal and business tax needs and consistently goes above and beyond—helping me make informed, strategic decisions well in advance of future tax filings. I cannot recommend him highly enough.

Johnny E.

Chris with Dark Horse is great! He provides so much information and helps me learn about my taxes, not just filing them. He is very passionate about his work and I appreciate the work he does for my company!

John T.

Provides great service. Very professional. Very responsive to questions and inquiries. Very punctual, I would highly recommend their services.

Nancy R.

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

Jude T.

Kyle T.

David H.

Johnny E.

John T.

Provides great service. Very professional. Very responsive to questions and inquiries. Very punctual, I would highly recommend their services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tax Strategies and Savings

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A Little Rock CPA You Can Actually Talk To

Susan Snowden, CPA

First Class Fractional CFO Services from Your Little Rock CPA

80%

Net Promoter Score

Net Promoter Score

550+

5-Star Reviews

5-Star Reviews

90%

Retention Rate

Retention Rate

80%

Net Promoter Score

Net Promoter Score

550+

5-Star Reviews

5-Star Reviews

90%

Retention Rate

Retention Rate

Tax Strategy & Accounting Solutions for Little Rock Businesses

Tax Strategy & Compliance for Little Rock Locals

Fractional CFO Services in Little Rock, AR

Fractional CFO FAQs: Little Rock, AR

Frequently Asked Questions About Tax Strategies and Savings

Get an expert Tax & Accounting CPA who will partner with you to achieve unparalleled results.