*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.*
11366 San Pablo Ave
El Cerrito, California 94530
Jaime Quintero is the best tax advisor I have been to. I have been doing taxes for years and came across Jaime about 2 years ago and it has made taxes a little less stressful. Jaime is super knowledgeable and takes the time to explain and walk you through anything you need. Jaime is also bilingual and since knowing Jaime have also referred my parents to him and they were very pleased with his services. I would recommend Jaime and his team at Ayuda Financial to anyone.
Per Usual once again came back to get my taxes done, have been coming here since I started working since 17 years young no 32, I come back because they do an amazing job well timed and never have any issues with my returns. Definitely recommend coming in to get your services. This time same as last year Juan helped me out and previous year Mr. Jaime. Also make sure to follow AYUDA FINANCIAL SERVICE on social media. Plenty of helpful information!
Doesn?t matter where in the Bay Area you live, check this place out! Today was my first time checking this place out. A family member of ours recommended Jaime to do our taxes. When I say he delivered, he delivered!!!!!!! He was very clear, thorough, helpful and knowledgeable. As he was doing our taxes, he shared what he was doing as well as why it?s done this way. Not only did he make sure I could get the best outcome but he also schooled me on so much. I left very excited and appreciative. Thank you for b
I would like to start off by saying that AYUDA FINANCIAL very helpful and very great customer service from the financial agent down to the front desk. I got great advice on many different scenarios. Very knowledgeable team. Very honest and very ethical. They care about their clients and helping them. Also very patient they take the time to educate their clients if the client is unknowable on a certain thing. If their is an award for the best tax service I would have to cast my vote on AYUDA FINANCIAL. Don't
They were so helpful, answered all my questions and inquiries.
We?ve been coming to AYUDA Financial Services for three years now because their knowledge in tax related issues and their excellent and very friendly customer service. When it comes to taxes and the IRS you don?t want to mess around. We can?t say enough good things about AYUDA Financial Services.
We are a long term clients of Ayuda Financial. I wouldn?t trust nobody else to take care of my family finances. Very professional bilingual staff guided by financial master mind Jaime Quintero. They will take care not only of your taxes but you always leave their offices with good advice on how to better manage your 401K, investments options and much more! We recommended then to many colleagues and friends that can testify of their excellent services. They have two locations well located to serve their cl
I have been going to Jaime from ayuda financial for about 10plus years. They are always on top of all the new tax laws,excellent turn around time on your returns. The staff is a pleasure to work with as they are also bilingual in Spanish. I highly recommend Ayuda Financial as your one stop shop for all your tax needs!
I absolutely love AYUDA??I have been using them for years. They are efficient, transparent and compassionate ???. I always know they are going to be honest with me and they respond quickly. Would recommend AYUDA to anyone looking to step up their tax game up.
My wife and I have been clients of Ayuda for over 15 years now. Not only are they extremely professional and dedicated but they know exactly what their clients need. We trust them with all our financial questions and decisions. We highly recommend them.
Fast & Professional Service for your critical needs
Always great service and detail care in preparing your taxes. Never had problem they can't fix or take time to explain. In the past 8yrs.
My questions got an answer, my frustration is gone, I don't doubt the knowledge , I was frustrated by the fact that I was not getting my message delivered to the right person. My question was answered and I'm satisfied with it. In all Mr. Quintero knows his business. I am satisfied with his services.
He is always there for us. Jaime knows what he does. You will come out very happy from his office, one he it?s done with you taxes. Years of experience.
My first time doing business there and I did like it, very professional staff, great quality of work they take their time asking all the necessary questions to get you a maximum refund.
Wouldn't have gone anywhere else! Thank you!
Great service and effective friendly staff.
Great service, quick and easy
Amazing staff, very helpful.
(Translated by Google) We have been doing our taxes with financial help for two years and we are very happy with them, they are very professional and honest and for them it is a priority that one as a client does not get into trouble (Original) Tenemos dos a?os haciendo nuestros impuestos con ayuda financial y estamos muy contentos con ellos, son muy professionales y onestos y para ellos es prioridad que uno como clientele no se meta en problemas
(Translated by Google) HELP, is exactly the company's approach, they advise you very well, educate you and describe the process, 100% recommended. Very professional assistance and explanatory, I wish to come many years ago, but now im in good hands, 100% recommended. Thanks for the HELP. (Original) AYUDA, es exactamente el enfoque de la compania, te asesoran muy bien, te educan y describen el proceso, 100% recomendado. Very professional assistance and explanatory, i wish to come many years ago, but now i
(Translated by Google) If my name is Jorge Calder?n, I visited Help Finance Service for 12 years, they are very professional, fast, good explanation about your taxes, I recommend them. (Original) Si mi nombre es Jorge Calder?n visit? a ayuda financiar Service ya 12 a?os son muy profesionales r?pidos buena explicaci?n acerca de sus impuestos se los recomiendo
(Translated by Google) Thanks to Ayuda Financial Services For their help with my tax return. They are very professional, and I am very happy with their services. (Original) Gracias a Ayuda Financial Services Por su ayuda en la declaraci?n de mis impuestos son muy profesionales y e quedado muy feliz con su servicios
(Translated by Google) Very Friendly all the time, they explain every detail well when filing taxes, they give us the necessary time without any rush.!! Many thanks for everything.!! (Original) Muy Amables todo el tiempo, nos explican bien cada detalle al hacer los taxes, nos dan el tiempo necesario sin ninguna prisa.!! Muchas gracias por todo.!!
(Translated by Google) They charged me a lot. I went to you. The person who sent me to you told me that you weren't expensive. But thank you. (Original) Me cobraron mucho yo fui com ustedes por quien me mando con ustedes medijo que no eran careros . Pero Grasias
(Translated by Google) As trainers, they are number 1. But when it comes to contacting the trainer or general manager, ZERO. (Original) Como preparadores so numero 1 Pero cuando se tratra de contactar al preparador o encargado general CERO
(Translated by Google) Excellent attention, and a lot of trust in you... thank you very much!!! (Original) Excelente atenci?n, y mucha confianza en ustedes... muchas gracias!!!
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.