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Bright Lake Wealth Management - Redding

Bright Lake Wealth Management - Redding

About This Listing

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Contact Information

Address

1445 Victor Ave STE D

Redding, California 96003

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-4PM
Tuesday 9AM-4PM
Wednesday 9AM-4PM
Thursday 9AM-4PM
Friday 9AM-4PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

The Team at Bright Lake inspire confidence in their investors ! The customer service is top notch! The team at Bright Lake have done very well for me for the last two years. Their investment strategies have performed above market trends. I have been extremely satisfied with the one-on-one attention. They make me feel important and that they genuinely care about their clients! I absolutely would recommend Bright Lake to handle investments and retirement services for any of my friends and family! DC

Ted and his team always provide exceptional service. Staff is friendly and professional and you even get warm cookies! The fee concerned me at first, but Ted made much more for us than we would have on our own, more than making up for any commission. He also acted quickly to protect our assets when the stock market became volatile. Would highly recommend.

Let me begin by saying the team at Bright Lake are exemplary human beings. Every single team member treats me like I?m the most important person in the world. They have proven to be trustworthy. No matter the size of your portfolio, give Bright Lake a call.

Both Ted and James Thatcher genuinely care. They are both very professional, respectful, listen and most importantly are manage funds exceptionally well for both my husband and I. I highly recommend Bright Lake again and again

A very professional establishment, I have spoken to many many financial advisors and money managers in this team is by far the best I've ever experienced! I would recommend them to anybody that's looking for financial advice to grow their retirement or wealth portfolio!

The members of the Bright Lake office have always made us feel like we are "family" . They have been so helpful and willing to help us with our financial needs ! Easy to talk with and always understanding. They go "above and beyond" to help us financially get to be where we need to be. We are so grateful to have found them.

Jake was so helpful and informative. Accomplished in communication and understanding my questions. We were able to complete the process quickly and efficiently. Thank you

Great crew always helpful. I'm very happy with Bright lake. Ted and James are good people.

The crew is amazing and so friendly. They have our confidence. Go to one of their events and meet them and talk. You'll be glad you did.

If you're looking for a financial advisor who is not just knowledgeable but also passionate about helping you achieve your financial goals, look no further than Ted Thatcher of Pine Brook Financial. Ted is a true professional who not only has a deep understanding of the financial industry but also a genuine interest in helping his clients succeed.

Fantastic group of people. The entire team is amazing to work with - especially Michaela!

Very good experience with this young man. Willing to listen, offer advice, and genuinely cares about the financial advice based on your current, and future interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.