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1040 Tax SMART

1040 Tax SMART

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the tax service for its friendly, professional staff and efficient, convenient service, with many highlighting excellent customer service and quick turnaround times. Multiple reviewers express long-term satisfaction and strong recommendations. However, a few negative reviews cite poor customer service, unprofessional behavior, and issues with pricing agreements. The majority of ratings are 5 stars, but some 1-star reviews mention significant dissatisfaction with specific interactions. Overall, the service is highly regarded for its expertise and welcoming environment, though inconsistent experiences are noted.

About This Listing

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Contact Information

Address

3900 Newpark Mall Rd Ste 103

Newark, California 94560

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday 10AM-9PM
Monday 9AM-10PM
Tuesday 9AM-10PM
Wednesday 9AM-10PM
Thursday 9AM-10PM
Friday 9AM-10PM
Saturday 9AM-10PM

Customer Reviews

I've been doing my taxes with Maria for a couple of years now and I must say; I'm always pleased with her service and staff. Very professional! Always very welcoming, friendly, and helpful. Any questions I have,Maria is very knowledgeable and patient. She is just amazing and kind hearted. I just did my taxes again and I must say? never disappointed ?; always a pleasure to do my taxes and looking forward for many more years to come. I highly recommend. Thanks Maria and staff, you are all wonderful and amazi

I've been going here for about 5 years. Maria is very knowledgeable and can answer any questions you may have. Same day or next day to finish my taxes so not much of a wait time to hear back. Maria is the best!

I just finished filing my taxes with Maria and I am astonished on what she said to me during this process. I have come here one time before and she was nice and it was quick but today was just an awful experience. She asked me how I have been since I last came here and I said I am doing great, I actually just recently purchased a home, thinking it was important information to mention while filing my taxes, I am currently in my 20?s. She started flipping through papers and said WOW they ACTUALLY let you ta

Maria is the best I'm so happy how well she handled my tax problems. Extremely helpful staff. Love the environment. She should seriously be everyone's go to tax preparer. No joke ! First time going there and I will surely be going back. ?????????????????????????? I also love the emoji themed office hehe :)

This review is about the customer service , I had a meeting with maria talked and agreed on price and left her my paper work after few days of no answering my phone calls or voice mails i got a email from her at 11 pm at night really ? unprofessional. She told me she will charge me more then the price we agreed so i refused to pay the extra cost then she imiditaly got mad and canceld my return. This is not the way you treat new customer at any busniess and if you agree on price you should stand behind it.

I've been preparing my taxes here for 3 years now. No problems and no fuss! Friendly staff and the drop off option is so convenient! Maria is the best!!! You won't be disappointed!!

Maria and her staff are friendly and they work hard to help you understand your taxes. This is the place to go to get taxes done easily.

Great customer service I'm definitely going to come back again to file my taxes thanks Andrew

She does taxes quick and conveniently so if your busy it's the place to go.

They even gave me an advance on my taxes they were great

They aren't taking new customers at this time. Seems like you have to be refered by an existing customer.

SHE'S THE NUMBER 1 .

Best place for taxes

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.

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