A Tuscaloosa CPA You Can Actually Talk To
Susan Snowden, CPA
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.
Specialties
Forecasting and Budgeting
Cash Flow Analysis
Reporting and KPIs
Strategic Advisory
Financial Statement Compilations
Industries
Real Estate
Non-Profits
Government
Construction
Professional Services
Your Tuscaloosa CPA for Accounting and CFO Advisory
Tuscaloosa’s economy is fueled by higher education, manufacturing, healthcare, and a growing small business community. To thrive in this competitive market, you need more than basic bookkeeping—you need a CPA who can provide financial clarity and strategic guidance. Your dedicated Tuscaloosa CPA, Susan Snowden, is here to help.
As a Principal at Dark Horse CPAs, Susan specializes in outsourced accounting and Fractional CFO services for Tuscaloosa businesses. From managing day-to-day accounting and streamlining financial processes to providing high-level strategy, budgeting, and cash flow insights, she delivers the expertise of a CFO without the cost of a full-time hire. With Susan, you gain a proactive partner who helps you strengthen your bottom line and plan for long-term success.
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.
SUSAN SNOWDEN, PRINCIPAL
“My clients value that I personally handle the work—something rare in this industry. That direct relationship allows me to stay connected, help them interpret their financial data, and build strategies for what comes next. As a CFO, my focus is always on creating the greatest positive impact and ROI for every client.”
Tax, Accounting & CFO Services for Tuscaloosa Businesses
The Problem: Too many Tuscaloosa business owners lack timely, accurate financials—or the strategic guidance needed to make confident decisions. Without reliable data, it’s difficult to manage cash flow, budget effectively, or prepare for growth. Alabama businesses must also navigate state income tax, payroll compliance, and federal requirements, making a strategic advisor essential.
The Solution: At Dark Horse CPAs, we specialize in outsourced accounting and Fractional CFO services for Tuscaloosa businesses. From managing day-to-day bookkeeping and financial reporting to delivering cash flow forecasting, budgeting, and high-level financial strategy, we bring the expertise of a CFO without the cost of a full-time hire. Combined with proactive tax planning and compliance, we give Tuscaloosa business owners the clarity and insight they need to make tax-smart, growth-focused decisions year-round.
Tax Strategy & Compliance for Tuscaloosa Locals
The Problem: Many Tuscaloosa residents only realize the full impact of their taxes at filing time—whether it’s an unexpected balance due, a smaller refund, or realizing they missed opportunities to save. With Alabama’s state income tax, property tax, and federal requirements, navigating compliance while minimizing liability isn’t easy without the right guidance.
The Solution: At Dark Horse CPAs, we believe in No Surprises. We work proactively with Tuscaloosa individuals and families to minimize liability, ensure compliance, and build forward-looking strategies. From state and federal filings to retirement, investment, and real estate planning, every engagement includes tailored tax strategy so you’re prepared, not reactive.
SUSAN SNOWDEN, PRINCIPAL
"Our Tax Team is the most dynamic, creative, advisory-focused group of CPAs you will ever encounter. They share a common goal, to maximize your tax savings and minimize any surprises come filing time."
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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