*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.*
355 S Grand Ave Ste 2450
Los Angeles, California 90071
I have known Jim Davidson at Avant Advisory for six years and have relied upon his expertise and guidance for our company and my family. We recently went through a merger and his advice saved us a lot of money, time, and headaches. I highly recommend him and the team at Avant for any important financial decisions! On top of that he is a remarkable humanitarian and human being. Thank you Jim for being a trusted advisor.
I have had the privilege to work with the professionals at Avant Advisory Group for the past few months and could not be more pleased to work with such a knowledgeable and accomplished team in their respective industry. The clear communication, attention to detail and overall responsiveness from Avant Advisory are qualities I wish more of our partners possessed. It?s no wonder they are the leaders when it comes to mergers, acquisitions and transactional support services.
My Company, business partners, and I have worked with Jim Davidson and others with Avant Advisory Group over the past twenty-five years on several businesses, ventures and companies that include corporate strategic planning, corporate governance, budgeting and forecasting, financial analysis, accounting technical issues, performance improvement, business and legal challenges, including litigation support. I am proud to recognize the contributions of the Avant Advisory Group team to the success of my current
Jim Davidson and his team at Avant are in a word ?professional.? Over the years, I have worked with Jim in a number of capacities ? investment opportunities, an interim executive engagement, etc. ? and am continually looking for ways to work with him more ? for quality-of-earnings engagements, M&A support, etc. With Jim and Avant, I know that I?ll get high-quality, efficient, and relevant work and even more importantly, I know that I?ll be working with a true professional and a partner.
Avant Advisory is a high-quality firm in its various professional services and certainly in M&A Advisory and Due Diligence! I would highly recommend you contact Avant Advisory to discuss before making your final decision! I have known Jim Davidson for over 10 years+. Tom Spinogatti Comerica Bank-Food & Beverage Group, Costa Mesa, CA.
I've worked directly with Avant and its professionals in prior engagements. They are smart, pragmatic, professional, and bring to their engagements the unique ability to visualize a compelling story, driven by solid, data-driven analysis. Will definitely recommend them for work on interim management, forensics, M&A, turnarounds and restructuring, and performance improvement.
I?ve worked with Avant Advisory on multiple occasions throughout the past 15 yrs. The team of professionals are knowledgeable, highly ethical, and have vast industry experience. They are trusted advisors and partners. I have the utmost confidence in their capabilities and would highly recommend their services.
I have worked closely with the Avant Advisory team for over 8 years. Avant is a very reputable firm with a resourceful team that provides exceptional service and delivers on what they say. They are very hands-on, knowledgeable, transparent, trustworthy and demonstrate integrity. HD Buttercup VP Finance
Avant provided consulting assistance in 2017 to one of StoneCreek Capital's portfolio companies. They achieved all of our stated objectives and we were pleased with their high level of expertise, responsiveness and professionalism.
If you want a team of advisors working for you that are knowledgeable and operate with utmost integrity then look no further!
The Rudiest people I've ever worked with. Do NOT work with this firm. You will regret it.
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.