*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.*
23171 La Cadena Dr
Laguna Hills, California 92653
I have had the pleasure of working with Troy for a couple of years. I refer my clients to him because I know they will be in good hands. He is trustworthy and I know I can count on him to take good care of the clients whom I refer over to him. As a retired Lieutenant Colonel serving in the Marine Corps for over 23 years, I feel I'm a very good judge of character and I have faith that Asset Retention can help you meet and exceed your financial goals.
If you are looking for an outstanding retirement planner to take care of your hard earned money and protect your financial future look no further! Troy Bender is your guy and he is excellent at what he does. Not only will he help you manage your assets and preserve and grow them for the future, but he will do so with care and love and make you feel you are a part of his family! I have known Troy and Po Bender and their team for over 13+ years. My husband (a physician) and I have been lucky enough to find T
In 2009 Troy "inherited" my account, when a previous financial advisor retired. Troy has been extremely helpful to steer my financial stability over all these years. Together with his very competent staff I felt completely safe. He told me at our first meeting that I would never loose a penny of my investments. He has been correct and I am very thankful for that. Over the years he was able to change my various investments into Lifetime Income Benefits (LIBR). This gives me the the assurance that I am receiv
My wife and I highly recommend Troy and his team of professionals. My wife and I have been investing and growing our retirement nest egg with Troy for some 10 years without a fee or dollar loss - ever. We have life insurance and a complete array of growing annuities with Troy. His service is stellar. He takes care of us like we are his own. He has generously provided us quality dinners, pie, wine, seminars, a cooking class (we missed the cruise!). He is the real deal - a most knowledgeable and reasonable fi
I've been a client of Troy for about 15 years. He is very knowledgeable and helpful. He guided me in planning my long term fixed income. It has worked out exactly as he has described and provides me the income stability to feel secure.
Asset Retention and Troy Bender have truly given me "Peace of Mind". I use to worry when the next stock market drop would occur. I remember vividly my husband and I losing money in 2008 and we can't let that happen again with the money we really need now that we are retired. Troy Bender helped us to rest easy, which was so incredibly important to us. Now we can focus on our grandchildren and know that we're never going to outlive our money or have to rely on our children! A big THANK YOU to Troy and the
I have been working with Troy Bender and the team at Asset Retention Insurance Services and they have been a pleasure. The team is knowledgeable and understands how to set up a retirement plan. As a small business owner I needed help setting up a financial strategy. I will recommend Asset Retention to my friends and family for their retirement planning as well.
Troy invited us to his dinner presentation. I confirmed the reservation the day before for 2, and was told yes, we are confirmed. I went to the presentation, and at the door was told since I didn't return his call today when I was at work, we could not go to the presentation even though yesterday I was confirmed. I feel this is unprofessional, and if a financial planner can not keep their commitments, how could he handle our investments?
I've been a client of Asset Retention Insurance for many years. Today the relationship we share is more like family. This firm specializes in helping their clients grow and retain assets for retirement. The staff is professional, courteous, caring and friendly. Troy Bender. President and CEO is ranked among the elite in the industry as a 5-Star Professional Wealth Manager. "Plan for your future now".
My husband and I have been clients of Asset Retention for 9 years. We are so grateful for the expertise and excellent support we gave received from Troy Bender over the years. He has diversified our accounts and truly looks out for our best interests. He sssisted with providing us with secure investments for guaranteed lifetime income, life insurance, long-term health care, and our living trust He availed himself to review our personal situation with potential move and provided referrals for realtor and ac
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.