*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.*
1299 4th St Suite 500
San Rafael, California 94901
Ryan, Sheri, and the team at Bridgewater do a professional and attentive job making sure our taxes are submitted properly. If you don?t have much experience performing your own tax work, have made mistakes, or have questions they will always do their best to make sure you receive the best quality of service. Thank you Bridgewater for helping me and my family for several years and counting!
I switched to Bridgewater a few years ago and the experience has been phenomenal. The staff is all very friendly, no one ever seems annoyed when I have lots of questions or need a lot of support with my books. I?ve been surprised in the past how grumpy people are even when you?re paying them and this company is nothing like that. They give great guidance on helping you keep your hard earned money and have helped my business thrive over the past few years. I feel good knowing I have such a great team when I
My firm has been a happy client of Bridgewater's for over 5 years, which includes the sale of my business to a third party. They provided excellent guidance and leadership that led to optimal tax and financial decisions. Would recommend to other Marin businesses.
I have been very happy with over the years with Sheri and Ryan Neuman of Bridgewater CPA. They are professional and responsive and always keep me updated with the latest tax changes. I own an estate planning service and I have referred quite a few clients to Bridgewater and have heard many good reports from them.
Bridgewater was recommended to me by an existing client, after discussions with a previous firm left me bewildered about what should have been a straightforward business filing and structuring. From day one, Bridgewater was a breath of fresh air. They took my business set-up from 0-60, and even within that lightening speed, made sure that I understood all the steps in the process. I can?t say enough good things about my experience, and highly recommend.
Bridgewater has been the accounting firm for my growing business the last three years. We love them! They make filing taxes painless. They are always very easy to reach and quick to respond. They are not the cheapest out there, but the value is there and is worth it!
Although My husband and myself are what would be called a "small potatoes" client, Bridgewater has always been fully engaged for us. Respectful, no matter how simplistic the questions. Not only helping us with our taxes, ( always a mystery,) but with sound financial perspective as to our situation as well. Real People are at Bridgewater including their Secretary, Jennifer, who always has the time to listen and customize their response to our needs. Many thanks.
Bridgewater has been supporting our business for many years. They have an exemplarily team of professionals who confidently overcome obstacles, and always go the extra mile to service our requirement's. I have referred them to many of our clients and acquaintance's who will agree that they always meet or exceed expectations.
Bridgewater CPA's has been a trusted CPA and tax preparation service for me now since 2013. Sheri, Ryan, and their team are responsive and friendly and I always feel like my questions are answered clearly, year round. I definitely recommend Bridgewater CPA's.
My name is Chad and I am the owner of Classic Culinaire Catering in Novato. A few years ago we decided it was time to get professional help with our bookkeeping and business strategy. We contacted Bridgwater Certified Public Accountants to see if they could be a right match for our needs. From the first phone call they were professional and ready to help. They set up an in person meeting right away where we met with their whole team. Each team member greeted us and explained their role in the company and h
Ryan, Joanne, Sheri, Jim and the entire team at Bridgewater have a calm presence as they wade through the subtle details of business and personal accounting needs. They respond quickly, are honest about what they know and what they need to check up upon, engage appropriately with the right set of questions, and ultimately have recommendations which are practical, cost effective, and realistic.
Been using Bridgewater CPA's for many years and we are very satisfied with their service. Tax problems, applying for PPP loans, dealing with the ins and outs of a health care office have all been handled by Bridgewater!!
About a couple years ago my mom passed away unexpectedly and I needed a CPA firm. I called them to set up an appointment and they had me meet with Ryan personally. I brought a list of questions and he was very patient to listen to them. He provided answers and as he continued to explain the process I was very taken with how incredibly smart this guy is. Anytime I have a question I can email and I get a response within 24 hours no charge. They have a great online portal interface for their clients which al
The folks at Bridgewater are top notch professionals that really know their stuff. We are very pleased with the service they deliver for our business. If your a small business looking for a great Accounting Firm, look no further.
Ryan and Sheri, along with the whole Bridgewater Team, do an excellent job supporting my personal tax filing needs. They are always professional and response and have provided me excellent service during important moments.
Bridgewater has been great to work with over the past several years. Ryan, Sheri, and the team are super responsive, professional, and knowledgable. I highly recommend!
We have been very happy with Bridgewater Public accountants. Ryan and Sheri have worked with us for several years and they are professional, service oriented and knowledgable. I would confidently recommend them!
Our business was growing rapidly, and Bridgewater helped us resolve issues, speed up tax preparation, and alleviated some of the financial strains we were experiencing. We are very, very happy we chose to use Bridgewater as our accounting team!
We've been with Bridgewater for over 4 years now. They are a great team, always responsive and professional. Highly recommended.
Questionable billing practices and missing tax documents! I paid Sheri Neuman, Ryan Neuman, and Bridgewater CPA almost $9,000 between March and July 2014, promptly and without questiion. Upon surprisingly getting yet another bill, on July 21 I made a request for itemizations of their charges due to my concern that; at $200 per hour, this was taking much more time and money than I expected. They wrote in their email reply on July 28, "By the way, we bill in 5 minute increments with a minimum of 15 minu
I have used Bridgewater CPA's for several years for both my business and personal tax needs. They are always there for me when I need them! Highly recommended.
Ryan, Sheri and the rest of the team have been trusted advisors to me and my business partners for over 5 years now. Diligent, proactive and knowledgable. Highly recommend!
Everyone I have ever contacted at Bridgewater Certified Public Accountants has been quick to respond, helpful, and most of all, patient! Thanks to all of you for making tax season less painful!
Ryan and his team at Bridgewater are professional, knowledgeable and responsive any time we have needed them.
Incompetent people, not recommended
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.