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A Zanesville CPA You Can Actually Talk To

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Megan Durst, CPA/ABV, CVA

TITLE

Principal

HOMETOWN

Dresden, OH

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

20+

EDUCATION

Ohio
Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.

— Madam CJ Walker

At first glance, one might read the statement, “Megan is a beekeeper” as, “Megan is a bookkeeper” given her extensive public accounting background. One would be reading incorrectly. In fact, she has six beehives on her family farm in Ohio which she keeps with pride. Maybe it’s this ability to serve a delicate (and dangerous!) group that makes serving her clients child’s play.

To that end, many clients has she served. From individuals to large corporations, spanning the industries of manufacturing, real estate, wholesale, retail and professional services. She began her career in the Big Four after graduating from Ohio University with a Master’s degree in accounting and passing the CPA exam. She then transitioned to a regional firm, McLain, Hill, Rugg & Associates, where she became partner in 2018. She served the firm in that capacity until merging forces with Dark Horse in 2023.

Outside of running her practice, she spends her time on the boards of various organizations, including Genesis Foundation, United Way of Muskingum, Perry and Morgan, and Muskingum County Center for Seniors. Additionally, she is the president of her local Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Professionally, she is a past Executive Board member of the Ohio State Society of CPAs, and a member of the AICPA. To say she’s involved with a lot of good causes would be an understatement. Otherwise, if not tending her beehives or the family farm, Megan is trying to get as close to any body of water she can find, whether pond, lake or ocean.


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Your Zanesville CPA for Tax and Accounting Advisory

Zanesville’s economy is built on manufacturing, healthcare, education, and a strong small business community. Whether you’re managing a family-owned business, growing a professional practice, or planning for personal financial goals, you need CPAs who can deliver proactive guidance—not just year-end filings. Your dedicated Zanesville CPAs, Tim McLain and Megan Durst, are here to help.

As Principals at Dark Horse CPAs, Tim and Megan specialize in tax planning and accounting advisory tailored to Zanesville businesses, families, and individuals. From minimizing tax liability and ensuring compliance to improving financial reporting and creating long-term strategies, they provide modern, hands-on solutions designed to help you grow with clarity and confidence.

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Tax Strategy & Accounting Solutions for Zanesville Businesses

The Problem: Many Zanesville business owners lack timely, accurate financial data—or the strategic tax planning needed to grow. Beyond federal obligations, Ohio businesses face state commercial activity tax (CAT), payroll requirements, and municipal income tax filings, which can quickly become complex without proper guidance.

The Solution: At Dark Horse CPAs, we combine bookkeeping, tax compliance, and proactive tax planning for Zanesville businesses. From managing Ohio CAT filings, municipal returns, and IRS compliance to providing cash flow planning, growth strategies, and CFO-level advisory, we give you the clarity to make tax-smart decisions year-round. With our Advisory-First approach, you gain a CPA partner committed to your long-term success in Muskingum County.

Solutions for Businesses
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Tax Strategy & Compliance for Zanesville Locals

The Problem: Too often, Zanesville residents only see the real impact of taxes at filing time—whether it’s owing more than expected, receiving a smaller refund, or realizing they missed valuable tax-saving opportunities. With Ohio’s state income tax, municipal income taxes, and federal requirements, staying compliant while minimizing liability is no small task.

The Solution: At Dark Horse CPAs, we believe in No Surprises. We work proactively with Zanesville individuals and families to minimize liability, ensure compliance, and create forward-looking strategies. From Ohio state filings and local municipal tax compliance to retirement, real estate, and investment planning, every engagement includes personalized tax strategy so you can move forward with confidence.

Tax & Wealth Advisory for Individuals
Megan Durst
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I have used James Larsen as my CPA for many years and am confident in his work ethic and tax knowledge.

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Why It's So Hard to Find a Good Accountant and Who is Taking on New Clients?

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Transforming the CPA Landscape: Darkhorse CPA’s Innovative Model for Growth and Success

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SPEED ROUND: 1031 Exchanges

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