*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.*
One Sansome Street, Sansome St #3500
San Francisco, California 94104
Allison?s extensive tax knowledge and supportive approach made all the difference in my FTB matter. She handled everything with great care, making the entire process easier and less overwhelming. She's also very easy to get ahold of and works quick!
Allison is extremely personable! This is my first time getting hit with an EDD Audit and I have no idea what to do. Allison took me through the steps and gave me great advice to put my mind at ease and what to expect. She was very honest on whether I even needed her help or not. I highly recommend making her your first call should you ever get the dreaded letter. Thank you so much Allison!
When Allison helped us with the EDD audit at our company, she provided tremendous assistance and helped us achieve excellent results. As a small business, receiving an EDD audit notice was overwhelming, and we reached out to Allison at the last moment. Allison promptly offered professional advice and assisted us in preparing our response, instilling us with confidence. When facing the auditor, Allison communicated with them in the most effective manner and guided us in preparing the necessary documentation
When our company faced its first EDD audit, it was initially overwhelming. After reaching out to five different firms, I chose to work with Allison because it was a pleasant to talk to her, and she was able to give me a brief yet informative rundown of what to expect with an EDD audit. It was evident that she knows what she is talking about. It turned out to be the BEST DECISION WE?VE MADE. Allison's extensive experience with EDD processes and tax laws became evident; she truly knows her craft. I'm thrilled
I cannot recommend Allison D.H. Soares, and Vanst highly enough! We found ourselves in a difficult legal situation and Allison was incredibly knowledgeable about the law in this area and explained everything to us in a clear and concise way. She was an advocate and provided key representation on our behalf over a lengthy period. Throughout the entire process, Allison was professional, responsive, and reassuring. She kept us updated on the progress of the case and were always available to answer our quest
Allison will do everything in her power to make sure you have a stress free experience. Legal proceedings are NOT easy and she walked me and my partner through every single steps with patience and clarity since we're new in the business world. Couldn't imagine our lives without her service! 10 out of 5 stars!!
I reached out after experiencing wage garnishment for a fraudulent in employment claim made to EDD. I had so much untroubled reaching EDD and scoured the internet for help. I left a voicemail for Allison and she called me back within an hour. She provided me with the resources I needed to and was incredibly transparent about not wanting me to pay for services she thinks a Taxpayers advocate can help with. She was right. I used the resources provided and my case was reversed within 3 business days. She is a
I have worked with and referred clients to Allison for over 10 years. She always provides the best possible service and will fight for the best possible outcome for a client. If you have a tax issue that is into the legal stage, Allison is who you want on your side!
Allison is extremely helpful, easy to work with, great at communication and effective. She did a phenomenal job with the issues I needed help with and always helped with advice after. Highly recommended.
She took care of an EDD Audit for us and she was absolutely amazing. Got us great results and kept us out of worry the whole time. Def. Recommend. Thumbs up
Ms. Allison Soares saved us! We needed "help" with assisting a relative with his prolonged tax issues...we were absolutely not qualified! Ms. Soares brought understanding, knowledge, compassion, and patience to the table. We thank her immensely for "quieting" our fears and resolving a situation that seemed impossible to us. We are forever in her debt...
I can't say enough about the exceptional service provided by this firm. From the moment I reached out, they were incredibly responsive, always there to answer my calls and address my concerns promptly. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal assistance. They've earned my trust, and I'll certainly be turning to them for all my future needs.
Allison is very nice person and so honest, she gave me a brief answer for my tax issue and directed me to the right way. Thank you very much appreciate it.
I highly recommend working with Allison. She is professional, and very easy to work with.
She's very knowledgeable, prompt at responding and easy to get a hold of which could be rare in dealing with legal stuff. I highly recommend her. She was able to bring bill Down 50% and was very efficient. Thank you Allison For doing a wonderful Job.
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.