*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.*
8315 Lee Hwy #325
Fairfax, Virginia 22031
We chose Jim David as our financial advisor after an extensive selection process. Jim was patient, understanding, and answered all our questions throughout the process. Once we selected Jim, he was meticulous in his attention to detail in our financial planning, including reviewing our estate planning documents to ensure they were prepared to best protect our assets. Jim was very accommodating throughout the process as we had multiple (video) meetings including evenings and weekends. He even reviewed my 40
We chose Jim David for retirement financial advice. We had specific questions/issues we wanted to address. Jim is a good listener. He focused on our issues, checked to make sure he was addressing them appropriately, and then followed up with check lists and progress reports. He has access to good outside experts when needed and offers solid, practical advice while being cost conscious. He is a valuable and trusted advisor for us.
Jim has been great to work with. Before making any suggestions he met with my husband and I to find out what our retirement goals were. He came up with short term and long term goals in order to help us on the path to a successful retirement. He continues to check in with us in case we have questions. We would highly recommend him to anyone who is trying to plan for retirement.
Thorough, competent, caring, a listener, and knowing - that's how I'd characterize Jim. And those were my reasons for choosing to go with him recently as my financial advisor. Jim quickly got into the details of my existing portfolio and didn't just assume away that certain items needed to transfer into other investment vehicles (actually, two remained when we finished our analysis. Jim declared them good ones for my situation, after a thorough assessment). My other investments were transferred into Schwab
Jim David has done a fantastic job with helping my wife and I set up our retirement plan and manage our assets. He is extremely detailed and attentive to our needs and concerns. We would highly recommend Jim to any one looking for serious and well thought out financial advise.
I'm so glad we found David Wealth Management. Jim & CJ clearly have our best interests in mind, have helped us forecast our retirement with confidence, protect our assets and also enjoy our savings! Their network has helped us find other trusted professionals we need for estate and tax planning. Jim brings decades of knowledge, clearly explains it and makes recommendations for us to evaluate. He makes the entire process easy and our retirement is going to be much more secure for it.
We have been managing our own retirement accounts since our 20's. Now that we are in our early 50's we wanted an independent review of our retirement plan by a fiduciary and Jim David was an excellent choice. He provided the fincancial review that we requested, assured us that we are on the right track and assisted in finding a source to refinance our home as well. We definitely plan to work with him again in the future once retirement gets closer.
Jim has proven himself to be a valuable asset in my retirement planning. He's a good listener and did a great job of reviewing my existing assets and then developing a detailed plan to better align them with my goals. I've had other financial planners in the past, and Jim is by far the best I've seen.
I found Jim after doing extensive research when I became a widow. He helped me through so much more than financial advice. He was a strong shoulder to lean on in a time of grief and confusion. He is realistic and empathetic. And best of all, he answers the phone whenever I call him. I trust him 100% and have recommended him to my friends. I feel really lucky to have found him!
I did a consultation with Jim. What can I say, super knowledgeable and very high Integrity. He was honest with me after giving me some very good advice. Basically, he ended up telling me what I was doing was already good and to just keep doing what I'm doing. Can't appreciate the honesty enough. Very trustful person in a world that looks to take advantage of people in situations like this. Definitely recommend Jim!
I initially chose Jim David, after research on the internet, because of his credentials as an independent financial advisor and a CPA. He spent time getting to know me and my husband, so he could understand our family needs for the long term. His advice was thoughtful and right on point. I can whole heartedly recommend Jim for you financial planning needs. Additionally, he is a nice man.
Jim has spent more time with my wife and I in setting up our plan than the previous three financial advisors we've used. Very responsive and listens carefully to what we want before he makes any recommendations. Very committed to his clients.
Mr. David has been very attentive to every detail of our family's financial plan. And I mean, EVERY detail. I thought I was detail oriented, but Jim takes it to another level. His objective advice didn't even begin with our investments but with proper living wills, having the proper amount of heath/life insurance/home/etc. (which he doesn't sell). His research into our current situation made using his services a "no brainer" for my husband and I . Additionally I never feel "out of touch." He continuall
Jim David is a constant pillar of professional and personal management for finance and puts your mind at ease. If you need a financial planner you can trust your wealth and plan your financial future with, he is your man.
David Wealth Management has been a huge asset for managing my portfolio. If you're looking for a financial advisor around Washington, D.C., I highly recommend him.
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.