*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.*
430 Vista Village Dr
Vista, California 92083
We've worked w/ Jessica and her team for a few months now and they've truly helped us advance our business. Not only do they help us w/ day-to-day accounting, but their hands on strategy support across the business is very beneficial as we grow our company. They are well organized, articulate, have great follow-up, and most importantly provide unbiased financial and strategic perspective. We've enjoyed collaborating w/ the Big Picture team and would recommend them to anyone trying to push their company forw
The team at Big Pictures Results has been a great partner for our business. They have been our main accounting arm for the business for several years now and have ensured all accounting practices have been taken care of properly including assisting us with tax preparation and filing. Additionally, they act as a CFO advisor assisting us in managing our books but also helping us properly valuate the business and provide insight and direction on best practices moving forward for the business.
I have been very pleased with BPR's services and especially thank you for the personal and constant attention S. Williams has provided to me. I cannot speak highly enough of her attention to detail and patience with my many issues including being hacked to the tune of several tens of thousands of dollars. She was most professional, patient and competent the whole way. I will happily recommend you to anyone who needs the services you provide.
We started with fractional services that grew into project base CFO help transacting for a PE purchase, now we moved our tax filing services over to BPR as well. Needless to say, we continue to expand on BPRs involvement with our company because they continue to impress and prove they are simply better than the competition. I highly recommend Big Picture Results for any and all accounting needs for businesses and personal alike. They rock!
BPR is a great company. They are very informative and helpful with all my taxes and book keeping. Especially owning a small business, you need all the help you can get, and they are always there to help and answer any questions I might have.
Appreciate what Shadi and Jessica have done to help me transition from simple bookkeeping to "more advanced" financials as we have continued to grow.
Big Picture Results does great work. Period. Jessica (owner) is like my remote CFO--she checks in with me quarterly to assess issues that jump out to her from the books. Tiffany, my account rep does a great job balancing my books. I own a small law firm and we have multiple accounts, including a client trust account, so our accounting must be perfect! (I could lose my law license if I lose, commingle, or misappropriate a client's money--so this is a big deal for us!). I fully trust Jessica and her team
Outstanding service and results! Jessica and her team at Big Picture Results really raise the bar on going above and beyond in providing our business bookkeeping service. More than just providing financial reports and Quickbook updates, Big Picture Results strives to learn about your business and help provide essential guidance and help to get your business on track and growing. The addition of outsourced CFO services is the icing on the cake.
Jessica and her team at Big Picture Results has been the most reliable, knowledgeable, and professional bookkeeping and financial advisors our company has worked with. Especially during the last few months when we were needing help with SBA loan applications and grant assistance, they were able to provide essential company financials on-time for us to actually receive the funding we needed. We had been working with serval banks and Big Picture Results made it so much easier to handle all the paperwork and
We have always had to file extensions because the books were not quite ready. I am very happy that since Big Picture Results has been doing the books for my businesses the returns have been filed on time. I am also able to manage the business operations much better since I have up to date and accurate financials. Big Picture Results have helped us navigate through covid and all of the ppp processing. Thank you Big Picture Results team.
Jessica and her team have done a great job of getting our books and finances on track.
Within one consulting call, I was able to get the questions I had for months answered with clarity.
Great service! love the energy, we are going places!
I truly don't recommend this
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.