*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.*
21300 N John Wayne Pkwy STE 110
Maricopa, Arizona 85139
Payed about $1500 or so for a few years of taxes to be processed through Chris, the IRS didn't do anything with what was sent so that money was wasted. When brought up I was told to pay a substantial amount to be on the phone with the IRS together to get it sorted out. Or don't do that and accept the issues and deal with it myself. It sounded like Chris didn't want to deal with it, so I took the second option. Hey when people pay you pretty large amounts of money you can try to be a decent person and help t
2 years a a row, actual refund was $1500 less than what CA CPA said. When I asked why that might be, they said it not their job to figure out unless I hire them on an hourly rate.
On Monday, March 4 around 5PM I walked into this office inquiring about their accounting services for my new business. The receptionist asked me what type of business it was, then said the accountant was ?TOO BUSY? and was very booked. I asked her if she could schedule me for his next available appointment. She then went ahead and looked at her computer and said I'm sorry he's just very booked. Then she said that she would take my name and number and the accountant would call me whenever he had a chance. I
My husband and I were looking for a CPA in AZ, we recently relocated and have some business here now. I have to say that trying to get a new CPA is so difficult, most firms didn't answer me, or said to us that they couldn't take any new clients. I called every single CPA in AZ that appeared in Google search. It's how I found CS CPA and Chris, which offered me a free initial consultation early this year, that was important to me because I wanted to see if that firm would it be a good match for us, as a small
I've dealt with Chris Scoggin for approx 3 years now. Had him help me file taxes for myself and my business. Also sought his advice on old tax debt from a previous CPA that left me high and dry. At first it was laughs, smiles and Chris calmed me down about the worries and concerns I had about my old tax debt. And he advised me to not pay my current taxes. We would get the IRS attention this way as during Covid he said the IRS is so backed up they don't return phone calls. And we will roll my current tax deb
Had an initial conversation around tax strategy in Feb of this year in the CS CPA office. Was told I would receive a follow-up within a few days around a strategy and never heard from the team again. Lost a customer, would have hired your team on for all future tax related activities including strategies. Dont go here if you value responsiveness from a CPA. *Update after CS CPA responded* Imagine that, a company that does taxes wouldnt want to provide that service for someone looking for tax help. Additio
After a frustrating last two years using this CPA office, this year finally cinched our decision not to use them again. There were some issues filing our taxes electronically so we were told to expect a hard copy in the mail that we needed to sign and send to the IRS. First, it took more than a week for the paperwork to travel from one Arizona city to another. That was especially frustrating because we are already late getting everything completed. Unfortunately, that is so minor compared to the next step i
Jim is a true professional and extremely proficient in all aspects of his specialty. I have been seeking financial advice and various tax services from Jim and his friendly staff close to ten years now, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the quality of service they provide. Jim always gets back to me in a timely manner and is never too busy to give me the personalized attention at times I require.
If you want a CPA that is truly "not your ordinary CPA" this is the guy for you. As a financial adviser i vetted my way through multiple CPA's before finding a home with Jim Chaston. I needed someone knowledgeable and also someone that goes above and beyond for his clients. Jim has always been responsive with communication and always knows the answers on the spot. The previous CPA's that i vetted would always just tell me to "check the IRS website" to find the answers to my questions because they weren't al
My husband and I have been clients of Jim for close to ten years and could not be more pleased with the service. Not only is Jim a brilliant tax mind~ he is attentive, timely and patient with any and all questions you may have. We highly recommend Jim and his competent team!
Review should give him zero stars.Run from this guy and office and delete and block him from any transaction. He makes appointments jerks you around for years. Doesn't return phone calls no matter how many times you call. Charges a lot of money and screws up your taxes. Poor advisor. Blames you for his mistake and confused you for some other customer. Promised big refund in the thousands and charged a lot for it. Never got it and he avoided the issue for three years until I had enough with his incompetence
I have been working with this CPA group for 6 years! They are all always helpful and responsive and have my best interests in mind for personal and my business taxes. I will continue to work with them as long as I can. Great office and very professional and courteous to all my needs.
So not sure how he got 5 stars but that's ok this is just my opinion. I've been going here for 3 years now and for the most part I didnt really need to for how easy my return is. I would even get asked what are you doing here lol. Well this year not sure what happened but it seems that James just stopped caring, I've had to physically stop in on 6 different times to try and get some kind of update on my taxes, the 3 time I was there I finally got an update and that we are just waiting for James to approv
Jim and his team have been doing both my personal and business taxes for years - since 2001. He also spun up my company, helped me when I moved state for 3 years and over the years has answered and responded to all my stupid questions. I could not do it without them. Smart, attentive and a pleasure to work with.
James and all staff are the best. They are professional, handle any issues extremely fast and James is the best CPA for my multiple businesses, Ive ever had. Thank you for the great work! Highly recommended
Ive been with Chaston for a long time and its always been solid service , great people! They always answer my questions that I typically email to them and have closed everything to get the taxes submitted on time even during Covid messiness. Highly recommend!
Jim has been doing my personal and business taxes for more than 5 years and i have to say he is very knowledgeable, pays attention to detail and has been great to work with. I would highly recommend Jim and his staff.
The Professionals at CS CPA Group Taxes and Accounting are responsive and diligent in handling our taxes and payroll. They are quick to respond to any questions I have, and are always a pleasure to deal with . I highly recommend CS CPA Group Taxes and Accounting. Ed Q.
I have used Jim for close to 10 years now for my personal and my business taxes. He is very knowledgeable! I would recommend Jim and his Team for personal and business taxes.
I've used James as my tax accountant for over 10 years. They are a great group there, and they do a great job! Highly recommend!
The office staff were very welcoming as soon as I walked in the door. The information packet I was given was very informative for filing my taxes.
Mr. Chaston is a great CPA, my wife and I have used him for many years and are never disappointed! We highly recommend him.
I have been with them for going on 3 yrs now.I went to them when I was not satisfied with another tax person and they have done an amazing job with my business
We have been with Jim for 10 yrs or so. I you want the best, this is it, that is why we allow him to keep processing our taxes.
We are Canadians found Jim and staff extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Would not hesitate to refer to this office.
Have used them for a long time and they are always friendly, efficient and accurate on my taxes.
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.