*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.*
87 N Raymond Ave
Pasadena, California 91103
Working with Robert at Creative Agency Success has been a total game-changer. He gives direct, smart, strategic guidance and a framework that actually works. Since joining the program, our business has doubled in revenue. Best of all, I feel way less stressed and am able to enjoy the process of scaling my agency. If you're looking for clarity, accountability, and real results, this is the program to join.
Creative Agency Success was a game-changer for me in more ways than I can explain. Robert's knowledge and expertise alone is invaluable, but his genuine care and dedication to see you succeed is something that I had not expected. If you're looking to up your game??by taking your agency and your performance to the next level, this is it. At the very least, your thinking and what you've been doing up to this point will be challenged. Also, if you're the type of person that could benefit from a push combined w
I can't recommend Robert Patin and his creative agency highly enough! Robert helped me completely restructure my business model, making it incredibly attractive to all customers. His expertise in creating a retainer model has provided me with ongoing financial security. What truly sets Robert apart is his ability to identify and establish my unique differentiator, allowing me to soar above competitors in my industry. Thanks to his guidance, my business is thriving like never before. If you're looking to el
Since working with Robert for just a few months, he has helped me revive my agency in just four months. His insights and strategies have truly brought my agency and my confidence back to life. Creative Agency Success has been an invaluable resource for scaling my agency. Highly recommend for any agency looking to level up!
I hardly know where to begin. When you have an incredible experience, you want to tell everybody, and that's how I feel about Creative Agency Success. In an industry full of charlatans, it's hard to separate those with integrity from those who only shout the loudest. Robert is truly a one-of-a-kind individual. I have never seen someone so dedicated to the success of their clients. I have had the privilege of working with Robert for the past three years, and I can say without reservation that it has been one
I had the pleasure of working with Robert as I was developing my agency and the insight, but more importantly hands-on support he provides is incredible. Robert also as me to work on a rebrand for CAS which was a lovely experience in that he was open to feedback himself, so having this mutually beneficial relationship was amazing. This also followed through into a friendship beyond our professional work. I say this to show that he is someone you can trust and know that he's got yours and your agency's best
Robert Patin has been crucial to our agency's growth in the past 12 months. He is supportive, direct, and resourceful. We appreciate him and his team for spearheading us into success, and we highly recommend them if you're looking for an outsider's view into your strengths and opportunities as a business. They can assist your team in increasing profitability and efficiency and implementing creative strategies to grow and develop your processes and team.
My company's owner discovered Robert by reading one of his books, and we've been working with him a while now. During this time we have been making incredible progress! I personally am extremely passionate about becoming more process-oriented as a team, and Robert's ideas & guidance have been indispensable. We're truly on the right track and noticing a difference in every aspect of business. Robert has been super attentive every step of the way, during our routine meetings & ad-hoc discussions. I'm so grate
I've been working with Robert and team for a little over 6 months and wow I've learned so much. I'm so thankful for the support he has offered and all of the endless trainings that have helped me scale my agency, build better systems, and create more efficient processes. While I was nervous to take the leap, this has truly been on of the best investments in terms of accountability and knowledge. Robert has dealt with almost any scenario you can think of and is equipped to help you navigate any situation tha
If you are an agency owner looking to grow and scale your agency, I can't recommend Robert Patin and the Creative Agency Success team enough. Robert brings together a super strong background in agency finance, sales, and ops, as well as emotional intelligence that is off the charts.
CAS has been a wonderful addition to my marketing firm! They deliver tried and true insights and processes that help my business run more efficiently and more profitably. Robert Patin's personal guidance is invaluable in tackling the biggest and smallest issues we face. Our relationship with CAS is well worth the investment.
I happen to discover Robert through his podcast during a very challenging time for our agency. Just listening to him speak and share his knowledge help reduce my anxiety. It didn't take me long to sign up to Creative Agency Success, and I am so glad I did. There is no one like Robert, and no platform like the one he's built. Robert is a master, and he makes you feel welcome and like family and he understands the very personal nature of running an agency. His team is also wonderful to work with, very kind an
Cannot Understate how impactful Robert and CAS have been in our creative web agency. Working with Robert Patin through his coaching program, Creative Agency Success, has been an absolute game-changer for my web agency. If you're looking for the Best Web Agency Coach, Robert is the person to trust. His guidance has provided me with invaluable insights on how to build a web agency from the ground up, scale it sustainably, and implement systems that truly work. His expertise goes beyond just strategies?he genu
Creative Agency Success with Robert Patin and co is the cheat code to become an agency Ninja! They are like that incredible massage therapist that you can't stop recommending to your friends -- They can go deep on any issue and work it out! Our agency had already hit that 1 million in revenue but we kept making one step forward and one step back, the rollercoaster of expansion and contraction. CAS has given us the tools, insights, and confidence to solve immediate issues and simultaneously build the long te
I was referred to Robert through a contact of mine. His wealth of experience has been a value add to our agency. Love that he is strategic and results focused. He is an indispensable partners in helping our agency achieve bigger growth, impact and success.
Working with Creative Agency Success over the past four years has been transformative for our agency. Their insights and strategies have consistently pushed us to grow, and their hands-on approach has made them feel like an extension of our team. Whether it's refining processes or guiding big-picture decisions, their support has been invaluable. If you're looking for a true partner who is as invested in your success as you are, Creative Agency Success is it!
I love working with Robert. Any agency owner looking to elevate service and operational excellence will find it with his support - but they'll also find something not really available from other so-called agency growth experts - and that's the support to a better you. Through my agency journey, I've been constantly reminded that the center of it all is me - and with balanced tough love and good vibes I've been given the insights and wind in my sails to realize my best self - and subsequently - the best vers
I couldn't share enough kind words about Robert and his team at Creative Agency Success. We've been working closely with them for a few years now, and he's not only been a great sounding board for thoughts regarding company direction & growth, but has helped lead the charge on a handful of initiatives that have shaped the way we work as a team. Having a third party provide insight and an outside perspective is as great as it sounds. Thank you CAS!
Robert is unlike other business coaches who only care about bottom line profit and optimizing and squeezing everything out of your company and people. He's balanced, thoughtful about healthy teams, thoughtful about your capacity and energy as the owner, and so responsive to the community he has built. He has incredible resources to point you to that he's thoughtfully put together and he celebrates the wins. A great coaching program all around for agencies.
Robert and Team are the best out there! They helped me navigate some of the hardest seasons I've ever been through in business. Robert is the real deal, no fluff or BS like the many other coaching/mentorship programs out there. Hands down recommend to anyone who's serious about leveling up their Agency and not doing another "course" - instead working with real people who get the industry. Would give more stars if I could! Many thanks for Robert and Team!!
If you're looking to scale and set yourself on a trajectory for success, there's no better person to work with.
Highly Recommend - Robert Patin if you want to scale your agency. 100%
Robert and his team are excellent! The program he has developed directly addresses the needs of an agency owner and provides copious amounts of hands on, implementable advice that have helped move our agency to the next level. I highly recommend!
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.