Free Report · 2026 Edition

The Complete Guide to
Accounting Firm M&A

39 transactions analyzed. 14 active acquiror profiles. Valuation benchmarks, the APS structure explained, and a 2026–2028 outlook. Everything a CPA firm partner needs to understand the PE wave reshaping public accounting.

39 Deals Analyzed
14 Acquiror Profiles
11x Median EBITDA Multiple
8 Report Sections
1
The PE Wave: How We Got Here
Timeline of the consolidation wave from 2021 to 2026 — key catalysts and the firms that moved first.
2
39 Deals: A Complete Transaction Review
Every tracked deal — dates, deal values, multiples, acquirors, and deal type. Annotated with deal significance.
3
14 Acquiror Profiles
Integration model, PE sponsor, acquisition criteria, and deal history for each active platform — including CBIZ, Cherry Bekaert, EisnerAmper, Grant Thornton, and Baker Tilly.
4
Valuation Framework: What Your Firm Is Worth
EBITDA multiples by firm size, service mix, and geography. How recurring vs. project revenue is weighted by acquirors.
5
The APS Structure Explained
Why the Alternative Practice Structure is the legal mechanism enabling PE investment — and what it means for partners.
6
Integration Models: Full Rebrand to Decentralized
How acquirors differ in post-close approach — from full rebranding to equity partnerships that preserve firm identity.
7
Partner Considerations: Earnouts, Equity, and Culture
What partners need to evaluate before signing — rollover equity, earnout structures, retention requirements, and the post-close reality.
8
2026–2028 Outlook
Where consolidation goes next — second-generation PE exits, mid-market saturation, and the firms most likely to transact in the next 24 months.

M&A Signal editorial. For informational purposes only. Not financial or legal advice.
Powered by Alternative Payments.

Get the Report
Enter your details below — we'll send you the full report by email immediately.
Please fill in all fields with a valid work email.

No spam. We'll send the report once, immediately.
Your information is not shared or sold.

✓
Report on its way!
Check your inbox — the 2026 Accounting Firm M&A Report has been sent to .
Open Report Now →