Chartered Accountants in Nova Scotia
Straightforward accounting, tax, and business advice to help you save time, reduce stress, and grow with confidence.

About Swain CPA – Accounting That Fuels Your Business
Swain CPA accounting firm exists to inspire small businesses. Since 2008, we’ve been helping entrepreneurs like you not just manage their numbers, but actually use them to grow and succeed.
John Swain grew up watching his parents chase big business ideas with passion, only to have accountants act as a “wet blanket,” focusing on what went wrong instead of how to move forward. He knew there had to be a better way.
That’s why Swain CPA was built—to be the kind of accounting firm that fuels small businesses instead of holding them back. We don’t just hand you the numbers; we help you understand them, use them, and turn them into real success.
Our Services

Tax Planning
From tax advice to preparation, we help you stay compliant while minimizing your tax burden.
Offerings:
- Estate Planning
- Corporate Restructuring
- Business Incorporation Services
- Buying And Selling Business
- Family Trust Accountant

Accounting
Certified in all fields of financial and business management, Swain professionals are here for you.
Offerings:
- T2 Corporate Tax Returns
- HST/GST Returns
- T4 Statement of Remuneration Paid
- T5 Preparation and Filing
- T4A Statement of Pension, Retirement, Annuity, and Other Income
- T5018 Statement of Contract Payments
- T1135 Foreign Income Verification Statement
- NIL Returns (Zero Income Tax Filings)
- Compilation of Financial Statements
- Corporate Restructuring and Tax-Free Rollovers

Business Advisory
Whether you’re launching, growing, or selling a business, we provide expert guidance to help you make informed decisions and succeed.
Offerings:
- Business Advisory
- Business Consulting
- Business Coaching
- Small Business Financial Coaching aka Inspirational Program
- Transaction Advisory

Reviews
I did a lot of research before choosing Swain. Many firms seemed very "professional", but Swain's human-ness and willing to go the extra mile, even as a potential client, really stood out to me. Looking back two years later, I know I couldn't have made a better choice! I don't feel like just a number with Swain - or just another client - we have a 1-on-1 relationship and I feel comfortable going to them for any problems or issues that may arise. Always prompt and always helpful, if you need an accountant, I can't give a stronger recommendation.
David Howe
Our office switched to Swain & Associates a few years ago and have never looked back! They straightened out our bookkeeping system and have provided us with exemplary accounting expertise, while demystifying the whole process. Mark's tax knowledge has been especially valuable and my husband and I are benefiting from his tax planning as we near retirement.
Toby Mandelman
I switched my business accounting over to Swain a few years ago and haven't looked back. They are knowledgeable, fast and add a personal touch to the whole process. It's been a pleasure working with them!
Marc Savoie
If you are a small business owner looking for a first-rate CPA, John Swain of Swain Chartered Professional Accountants should be your first call. John is passionate about helping small businesses grow. More than just providing advice at tax time, he believes in full service coaching and doesn't wait for you to ask a question, he gets to know your business and tells you what you don't know but need to know. As a lawyer, I give John Swain's name to all of my business clients without hesitation!
Laurie C. LaViolette
Awards and Recognition


Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal

Devour Food and Film Fest Board Service Recognition

MIT's MASS Challenge Awards Ceremony





Why Choose Swain CPA?
We know there are plenty of accounting firms out there—but we do things differently. At Swain CPA, we’re more than just number crunchers; we’re your partners in business growth. We work with entrepreneurs and owner-managers who want clear, practical financial advice to help them succeed.
We know our stuff
From tax planning to business advisory, we give you real solutions that make a difference.
We work as part of your team
Think of us as your financial co-pilot, guiding you through every stage of your business.
We love small business
Helping entrepreneurs thrive isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are.
Let’s build something great together.
Our Process
Step 1: Initial Contact
As your year-end approaches, our friendly client-liaison team member will reach out. We'll schedule a convenient time for a planning meeting or call with your dedicated Relationship Manager (RM) – your trusted partner at Swains. This email usually arrives, sometimes, shortly before year-end, but more likely several weeks after.
Step 2: Planning Meeting
Your RM will lead you through a tailored set of questions, ensuring we gather only the necessary information. This annual check-in is crucial as tax laws and your business evolve. But don't worry; we make it easy and efficient for you.
Step 3: Information Gathering
Together, we'll set a deadline for your document submission. We kindly ask you to wait until you've gathered all the necessary information. Expect gentle reminders once a week to ensure we stay on track.
Step 4: File Preparation and Review
Once we have your information, our team diligently prepares and reviews your file. A senior-level CPA ensures top-notch quality before finalization. We kick-start your file only after receiving all the necessary information.
Step 5: Final Steps and Year-End Inspiration Session
Before receiving your final package, our administrator sends your draft financial information and adjusting journal entries for your acknowledgment. Then, you'll receive a neatly-packaged file with clear instructions, including signature gathering. Plus, get ready for an exciting year-end ‘Inspiration Session’ with your Inspirer, an accountant who will not only go through the numbers with you, but also boost your business's profitability and efficiency.

FAQs
You don’t need an accountant for every little thing, but there are times when hiring a professional makes a huge difference. Here’s when it’s worth bringing in the experts:
- Starting a Business – Getting your business structure, tax setup, and financial systems right from the start saves you from costly mistakes later.
- Growing Your Business – More revenue, more employees, and more expenses mean more complexity. An accountant helps keep things organized and efficient.
- Corporate Tax Planning & Filing – Business taxes aren’t just about filing on time—they’re about paying the least amount legally possible while staying compliant.
- Financial Reporting & Compliance – If banks, investors, or regulators require financial statements, an accountant ensures accuracy and professionalism.
- Buying, Selling, or Merging a Business – Whether you’re expanding or cashing out, an accountant helps with valuation, tax strategies, and making sure it’s a good deal.
- CRA Audits or Tax Issues – If you’re dealing with a CRA audit, tax dispute, or just aren’t sure if you’re compliant, having a CPA in your corner can save you a lot of stress.
If your financial situation is getting more complex, or you’re spending too much time on numbers instead of growing your business, it’s time to call an accountant.
It depends! A simple personal tax return might cost around $150, while a more complex one (think business income or rental properties) can run between $300 and $750. Incorporated businesses? That’s a different ballgame—expect anywhere from $2,500 for a basic compilation to $15,000+ for a full audit. The more complex your finances, the higher the cost.
Check out our guide on When Do I Need an Accountant, and How Much Do They Cost?. For more details.
Because winging it with your finances is a risky (and expensive) game. A CPA isn’t just there to file taxes—they help you pay less, stress less, and actually understand where your money’s going.
Want to keep more of your hard-earned cash? Avoid nasty CRA surprises? Stop guessing your way through tax season? A good accountant makes all of that happen.
Let’s be real—accounting isn’t just about keeping the books tidy. It’s about making sure your business actually thrives. Here’s why it matters:
- Keeps Your Finances in Check – If you don’t know what’s coming in and going out, you’re basically flying blind. Good accounting makes sure you’re not spending money you don’t have or wondering where it all disappeared.
- Stops CRA from Knocking on Your Door – Late filings, missing receipts, and “creative” bookkeeping can land you in hot water. Keeping things clean and accurate keeps CRA happy—and audits far, far away.
- Helps You Sleep at Night – Stressed about cash flow? Wondering if you can afford that new hire? Solid financial records take the guesswork out of big decisions, so you’re making moves with confidence.
- Grows Your Profits (Not Just Your Revenue) – Sales are great, but if you’re spending it all on overpriced software and takeout coffee, what’s the point? Smart accounting helps you cut waste and keep more of what you earn.
Makes Your Business Worth Something – Whether you want to expand, sell, or retire rich, messy books won’t get you there. Strong financial mean your business is actually worth something when it’s time for the next big step.
Think of us as your financial co-pilot—keeping your business on course, avoiding costly mistakes, and making sure you don’t overpay the CRA. Here’s what you get:
- More Money in Your Pocket – We find tax-saving opportunities you didn’t even know existed. Less tax paid = more money to reinvest (or take that vacation you keep putting off).
- No More Financial Guesswork – Know exactly where your business stands, what’s working, and what requires fixing. No more “hope-for-the-best” bookkeeping.
- Time Back to Run Your Business – Stop drowning in spreadsheets and late-night number crunching. We handle the accounting so you can focus on growing your business.
- Better Cash Flow Management – Because “profitable on paper” means nothing if you can’t pay the bills. We help keep money flowing so you’re never caught off guard.
- Less Stress, More Confidence – No more last-minute tax panic or worrying about CRA audits. We keep everything compliant, accurate, and running smoothly.
In short? Less stress, better decisions, and more money where it belongs.


