*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*
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.
*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*
*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*
*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*
*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*
145 S D St
Exeter, California 93221
Could not be happier with Linda and her staff. Linda has done our taxes for many years and has always been very fast, efficient, courteous and knowledgeable. Recently we asked her to take on the tax account of my elderly parents. My Father passed away earlier this year so there are many changes to be made to their estate. Linda took the time to go with us to the lawyer so that she would know what is going on with their affairs, it was so comforting to have her with us. It's so nice knowing she's there
My husband and I have been with Linda since before she opened her doors. She does and her staff do an an amazing job. They are always friendly and helpful. She always knows how to take care of any issues that may arise. We will never go anywhere else to get our tax done!
ABC Bookkeeping is THE place to go for professional tax preparation. Linda has been doing our personal taxes and estate taxes for several years without a glitch. I confidently recommend Linda and her staff when it comes to accounting and tax preparation.
Although I've moved to Oceanside, I drive up to Exeter annually to have my taxes prepared by ABC. I trust Linda and her staff. She stays current in all tax changes and helped me with retirement advice using "what if" strategies. When I determined I could afford to move, Linda helped with all documents related to the sale of my house. This coming year she'll advise me on proper deductions for working in my office at home. She's smart, honest and knowledgeable. She'll even do taxes through the mail!
My husband and I very much enjoyed the experience we had last year with ABC Bookkeeping. Linda and her staff are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and timely in their dealings with us. We had an accountant that retired in Port Hueneme after 20 years of doing our taxes and have been flailing to find a good tax person ever since. We have found our trusted source (Linda Bauer) this past year and will never change from here on out.
ABC Bookkeeping and Tax Service has done my taxes the past 5 years! I was referred to Linda when I was audited and discovered my previous Tax person listed deductions that were not allowed! Linda and her staff are knowledgable and professional! They KNOW the tax rules and will keep you out of trouble!
I have worked with Linda and her staff for at least 5 years now. She has done my yearly taxes along with helping me with my business' bookkeeping. She has always been helpful, professional, and available for any of my questions. I feel that I can completely trust her to do the "right" thing and give me good counsel. Kathy Logan
UPDATE: Went through another year with ABC preparing my taxes. Saved even more money. Thank you Linda! Being self-employed, my taxes are pretty complicated, but I had tried to file them myself for several years. Linda at ABC Bookkeeping was so great to point out that we could refile for three years back and save money. She did it for me and wow, I save a couple thousand dollars overall, not to mention what she saved me for last year had I done it on my own again. Never! Using ABC from now on.
I am amazed with the understanding, quality and care I receive from the women of ABC Bookkeeping and tax service. Linda has a gift of recognizing when I am not quiet comprehending tax information and will give me examples by explaining until I understand. I highly recommend their services
My wife and I have used Linda at ABC to do our taxes twice now. We are very satisfied with our experience and plan to return. She is friendly and knowledgeable.
I was very pleased with the work of Linda and her staff. It was nice to have someone "just take care of things" and to know that it was done right. Linda was very thorough?she went over all of the details and explained everything. I have already recommended her to several friends and clients.
ABC is courteous, friendly, fast, accurate, helpful, dependable, trustworthy and professional. Linda has ben our tax preparer for many years. I would highly recommend.
We followed Linda when she left a large tax preparation company years ago. She is amazing at what she does, and we continue to use her for tax services year after year.
If you need a Quickbooks Advisor/guru look no further. Just last week she made a "housecall" to fix a payroll issue for our business. She came at the end of her long day because she knew I needed her ASAP. Many many thanks.
Besides my personal taxes, I rely on ABC to take care of taxes for a couple of small not-for-profit organizations whose boards I serve. Don't know what we would've done without Linda.
Linda and her team are awesome.. friendly, helpful, and they make it fast and easy. We've been going to them for the last 7 years or more.. I won't go anywhere else.
Great customer service and very honest that's why we keep coming back to Linda and her staff. We are glad we found ABC bookeeping and Tax Services in Exeter
Linda and her team are the BEST! They're knowledgeable and I KNOW if I get AUDITED...they'll stand WITH me!
ABC Bookkeeping is thoroughly professional and completed my taxes in a very timely manner. will continue to go back to them.
We have used Linda and ABC bookkeeing since we moved to Exeter. They have been great to work with and we feel fortunate to have found them.
ABC Bookkeeping did my taxes this last tax go around and I couldn?t be more happy. They have the heart of a teacher and I was walked through the whole process. I will be going here for now on
They provided great service and are extremely knowledgeable. I will be back next year! Thanks!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.