At Checks and Balances, Inc., we’ve always believed that accounting is about more than numbers on a page—it’s about clarity, trust, and building strong relationships with the people we serve. Today, we’re excited to welcome you to our brand-new website, designed to reflect who we are and what we’ve stood for since 1984.

 

Rooted in Chicago, Focused on You

 

For forty years, our firm has served businesses and individuals across Chicago with reliable bookkeeping, tax preparation, payroll, and financial advisory services. From our beginnings near the Gold Coast to our current location on North Clybourn Avenue, we’ve stayed committed to being a trusted local accounting firm that delivers personal service. Our community roots run deep, and we’re proud to call Chicago home.

 

The ABCs of Our Work

 

Accounting doesn’t have to feel complicated. That’s why our philosophy is simple: we make it as easy as A-B-C.

 

• A is for Accurate — because you deserve clean, dependable numbers.
• B is for Business — because our focus is helping your business succeed.
• C is for Cost — because understanding margins and cash flow helps you grow with confidence.

With this approach, we give clients not just financial statements, but a financial story they can actually use.

 

A Touch of Magic

 

Our founder, Katherine Gilbert, grew up surrounded by the art of performance magic—and she carried that love into her business. Here at Checks and Balances, Inc., we like to say “we make magic out of numbers.” Whether it’s cleaning up messy books, simplifying payroll, or uncovering tax-saving strategies, we bring clarity to complexity. Accounting may be technical, but with the right partner, it can feel seamless—almost magical.

 

What You’ll Find on Our New Website

 

This new website is built to serve you better. You’ll find detailed pages on each of our services:

• Bookkeeping & Monthly Accounting
• Tax Preparation & Year-Round Planning
• Payroll Services for Small Businesses
• Accounting System Setup & Clean-Up
• Cost Accounting & Business Advisory

 

We’ve also made it easier to connect with us. Whether you’re searching for a Chicago accountant near me, looking for affordable accounting services in Chicago IL, or simply need tax help in Chicago Illinois, you can schedule a free consultation directly through the site.

 

A Personal Thank You

 

From handwritten postcards to friendly check-ins, our team has always believed in staying connected with clients in meaningful ways. This new site is another way to keep that promise. We’re grateful for four decades of trust, and we’re excited to continue serving Chicago with personalized accounting you can rely on.