*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.*
23181 Verdugo Dr # 100B
Laguna Hills, California 92653
The 1 hours review with James was informative and 1 hour well spent! I will seek more knowledge from All Mark Insurance Services, Inc
James is a seasoned retirement strategist and has your interests in mind. He helps you with great modeling tools so it's not just pulling number out of the air. He is a wealth of knowledge and has helped me understand the options I have without feeling like I am pushed to buy something. I really appreciate his services.
I highly recommend James' Wealth & Retirement Strategic services for anyone looking for comprehensive and personalized financial planning. He helped me create a tailor-made plan that prioritizes my goals and needs, and provided me with expert guidance and support throughout the process. He also helped me with tax strategies, estate planning, and insurance needs. He is very professional, knowledgeable, honest and friendly. He never tried to sell me anything not needed. I am very satisfied with his guidance a
Extended experience in financial, insurance, SSI & trust, very good 1hr talk with James, will execute items that he suggest.
Phenomenally impressed with James deep knowledge & perspective on annuities & a wide variety of other financial matters ... including tax impacts. Tons of learning & direct, honest guidance in every conversation. Highly recommend him!!!
I am writing this message to express my sincere appreciation for James Johnson. I recently had the pleasure of utilizing his financial advisory services and I must say that the experience was beyond extraordinary. James is an individual who truly knows his craft and his level of expertise is unmatched. His friendly and welcoming demeanor made me feel immediately comfortable and his vast knowledge of financial management made me feel confident in his abilities. He took the time to understand my financial goa
James is knowledgeable, cuts to the chase and explains all things financial in simple terms.
My wife and I had an awesome meeting with James. He has a wealth of knowledge regarding retirement planning and was super helpful in working with us on understanding our retirement scenarios. James is a very passionate about enabling individuals to maximize their investments and de-risk the future where possible. If you are someone that is looking to better understand your future retirement options, I would highly recommend working with James and Al Mark Insurance!
James is knowledgable, but don't expect two way conversations. Second 1-1 turned into sales pitch on annuities.
I have 2 annunities with James Johnson. It has been 2 years since I purchased them and time to review. Mr. Johnson sent an email requesting changes with a ASAP timeline. No hard date given. I was on vacation. Upon return I met with Mr. Johnson and found out I had missed the timeframe to make the requested changes. I asked Mr Johnson to put a date in his email to me so I would be informed. He said it's not going to happen. He is too busy for personal attention. Once he gets your money he doesn't have time fo
Had a free zoom meeting with James from All Mark Insurance Services and he gave me some great insight with finances and my future. Not many people out there these days that will have a conversation with you and not try to pitch or sell something to you. Wonderful conversation and great resources were given all the while looking out for my best interest. Thanks James!
James is super knowledgeable and knows all the right questions to ask. His assessment tool is amazing and gives you a deep dive into your financial situation - a dive everyone should take. James delivers great customer service and value for his customers and goes above and beyond what one would expect!
It has been at least 6 months now that I've been looking for someone to help with my retirement plan. I have always been skeptical about investment services. One day, my sister told me about Mr. James Johnson. I went to his seminar and to make a long story short, I find that Mr. Johnson is extremely knowledgeable, professional and the most important is, he really cares. I learned so much more and finally have my retirement plan set up to my satisfaction. It's not easy to find someone who would do the right
Jim spent many hours with us over the course of our appointments, and with no charge. He gave us his time to help us understand Social Security, annuities, life insurance, and how much money we will really get from our 401K's. James is helping us make our money work for us in ways we had never considered before, including giving as little as possible to Uncle Sam. Do you want to hear the truth about the lies you have been told? Then James Johnson is the teacher you want. Have you ever sat through a long
The one hour meeting with Mr. Johnson was very informative and direct to the needed issues. The most I was impressed with is that the client interest and well-being was the number one priority for Mr. Johnson instead of trying to market and sell his products. Thank you for being true to your profession.
Mr. James Johnson cares and wants to help you where help is needed. His focus is "you and your goals" and not on products he wants to sell or offer. Hence we follow his advice and have been extremely happy with his all rounded financial knowledge & advice.
I met James at a Social Security benefits seminar and our relationship has grown from there. He was able to confirm most of what I believed about retirement planning and gave me a few pointers on what I was doing wrong. He has a vast amount of knowledge about all sorts or retirement and wealth building strategies. I would highly recommend you meet with him.
Outstanding Financial Information. James gives it to you straight. No pandering. Really enjoy his professional and sensible approach to planning your retirement right. Highly Recommended...
James is the ninja of wealth management. You may think you know what you're talking about then he comes out of no where to show you how you can improve. Even if you're not listening 100%... you're listening and you question in your head if the door is locked before you go to bed. If you don't understand what I mean, you need to contact James.
Our introductory meeting with James was exactly what we were seeking. We believe that he can help us achieve the answers to our questions of: When can we retire; how we will achieve this and what is required to get there. We're looking forward to working with James.
My wife and I are approaching the retirement age. As part of our research on how-not-to-outlive-your-money, we came across "the safe money people", led by Jim. As you may notice, I am not being formal here, by saying "led by James Johnson". This is how comfortable we felt by the approach and the honesty we sensed when we started working with Jim. His knowledge in retirement matters is indisputably vast. The fact that he was part of Ed Slott's Team, for pretty much a decade, got my initial attention. Visitin
I have attended James' several zoom educational seminars, and have learned a lot from James every time. He is super knowledgeable, especial in social security benefits, retirement benefits and tax saving strategies. I will definitely refer him to my families and friends.
James is the best. I like the spirit of the meeting "no pressure". I have homework which is a very good idea, that will help me to understand the future plan and tools need it generate the income after retired.
I would like to say my experience working with James was extremely informative. He was highly recommended from my brother. I wanted to say James thank you for helping me to understand what I need to do to retire. I am looking forward to my future. Thank you.
All good, James's team and staff are dedicated and efficient. James's has amazing tech-tools and went the extra mile to educate me and gave me some idea through what to me is a daunting, complicated, completely unknown thing and how it operates called and annuity.
I met with James years ago and have been following his stuff ever since. My son and I have been to a couple of his dinner seminars and webinars. The knowledge and expertise is unmatched. You can tell that he wants to help people exceed their goals and live in retirement and not just exist as he always says. What he preaches about safety and predictability is something everyone needs to hear... especially now in such volatile and uncertain times in the market. How could you go wrong by getting some of the
James Johnson and the team at All Mark Insurance are knowledgeable, treat you like family, and are true experts in their field. They give you a completely customized experience that helps you ease the stress of the ups and downs in the market providing great financial resources/options. Schedule an appointment with James and the team today to experience the same great experience I had!
I am so thrilled I came across Jim! He is smart and delivered a custom strategy for my needs based on data driven approach, which never lies. I walked away with more insight than I had before and HIGHLY recommend him!
James is straightforward and he shows you the math! He is patient, and answers each question thoroughly to ensure that I understand the details. Very transparent.
We have been with James since 2010. Learned a lot from him, he is very honest, genuinely concerned and the advise he gives is always golden. Over the years he has made sure our money keeps growing and saves us a lot on taxes.
I am very skeptical of financial advisors. However, James Johnson sets himself apart from other advisors. He takes time with his clients to understand all of the life goals and creates a custom map toward achieving those goals. I was ambitious in my goals and have accomplished every one. James is not tied to a particular investment firm and instead chooses the right fit for the client. I highly recommend James.
I cannot speak highly enough of James Johnson with All Mark Insurance Services. He brings to the table 19 years of expertise and experience in guiding individuals into financial planning for their retirement. He is a person of integrity and has a tremendous passion for helping others achieve their financial goals!
James Johnson is a very knoweldgable and experienced professional if you need Insurance or other financial services inculding asset investments, trusts, and qualified plan advice. I highly recommend All Mark Insurance Services as a source for income and estate planning.
James Johnson is experienced and knowledgeable, adept at navigating his clients through their retirement planning journey.
It's always great to meet with James and his incredable office staff. He is knowledgable about so much and really helps us see our financial planning goals so clearly! Thanks for all you have done for us!!!
I have known James for many years. I consider him a friend as well as an advisor. He is very knowledgeable and fun to work with.
James Johnson is the right man for the job. Not only is he brilliant, he is very at home in the world of finance, knows the information backwards and forwards. He is not condescending (I am very sensitive to this) even though he probably should be. He educates, doesn't ram information down a client's throat. He explains concepts, imparts information, allows one to come to one's own conclusions; it is obvious that his main desire is to HELP the client and he succeeds 100% -- I came into the office belie
Thank you James for educating me about Social Security benefits and the importance of Estate Planning and Trusts to take control of my financial future. I highly recommend anyone who has not yet taken action to consult with you for your expert and sound advice.
James is so helpful. Very knowledgeable!
James Johnson and staff are always a phone call away. Questions are answered in an easy to understand manner. Investment strategies are discussed with my benefit being the priority. If I'm unsure or hesitant with proposed changes, I'm never "hounded" or "talked down to" regarding my requests.
It was a good 1 1/2-hour session. Jim slowed down enough and repeated several concepts until I understood his points. Most likely I'll have to follow up with a few phone calls as IU get into the details of each concept. Thanks, Tony
James is a guy with integrity. He has helped me in understanding my investments. Recommendations for getting to me to my goals financially is outstanding.
James is very knowledgeable when it comes to finance and often finds a new way to be smart. I have no problem recommending him.
James is awesome. You will not find a more knowledgeable person out there on the subject. Everyone needs to hear this information and learn how to avoid market loss and avoid giving your money away to the government...
James is extremely knowable about retirement income strategy and tax optimization as well as wealth preservation. Highly recommended!
James is BRILLIANT! I've had contact with multiple financial planners in my life , and he is THE BEST!
Just starting out with James and All Mark Insurance but I can tell right away that I'm in the right hands. Straight shooter that might be rough for many but just right for me.
Jim Johnson is the real deal! He listens to your story and only makes recommendations that make sense. Jim is a winner and will help you become a winner, too!
Jim is amazing and pleasant to talk to The products they offer and the information and the experience is superb The meeting opened our eyes to many wrong decisions made in the past and still making My financial life would have been way different today had I met Jim 15, 10 or even 5 years ago I definitely recommend this service to anyone who is seeking financial freedom and good retirement
Caution: At best, he glosses over the most pertinent information and manipulates those of us less informed. Before you authorize, discuss with another, trusted ethical advisor. I regret how I was naive and trusted him.
Was very helpful and considerate! Highly recommend him if you're interested in learning how to plan a better financial future.
Very knowledgeable and professional. I think most people should look at this information long before retirement. i wish i would have.
VERY GOOD INFORMATION RECEIVED
James Johnson is very knowledgeable. Easy to talk to.
Informative and super helpful.
Excellent advice on current and future planning. Thank you for taken time to work with us.
Had a great experience. Learned many things about our future and putting our finances in the right spots .
Great Support! Thank You James Gene
Knowledgeable, friendly and willing to take the time to answer our questions.
The information that I received was mind blowing, and life changing!!!! Thank you so much..... Manny w
Very detailed and straight forward information
Best at what he does!
James was very thorough in his responses and answered my questions expertly and showed me how to read the data in the illustration he sent me. He is awaiting more recent information from my insurance company before providing me with more information regarding my queries about it. Looking forward to getting his expert advise again in future.
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.