*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.*
400 S Melrose Dr #207
Vista, California 92081
Fabulous experience as always. It?s very easy to upload all your documents and the staff is so professional. Very nicely run office. Jeff asks questions that can prompt something you forgot about as far as a tax credit or tax break. The turn around time is great! We are very pleased customers. Wonderful job everyone!!
My husband and I have been using DePauw Johnson Tax & Financial Services for well over 30 years & have worked with Ria for the last 6 yrs after Andy retired. We are consistently impressed with her professionalism and proactive approach. She & her team not only provides all the necessary information promptly, but also go above and beyond to ensure everything is clear and well-handled. Her expertise, prompt responses, and ability to explain any tax concerns we may have has been invaluable to us. We highly
I'm new to the state and was nervous finding a CPA for taxes this year. DePauw met and exceeded my expectations. The entire team was pleasant to work with and working with John was such a pleasure. He was not only helpful but helped educate me so I understand this complex process better. Will certainly be coming back next year!
I have been with DePauw Johnson for about 13 years, This is the first time I had ask where is my return, setting over 3 weeks, The next day it was complete. Still have not been notified on the status on filing my e-file, Why this hiccup? This has been a good company to work with.
Ever since becoming a client, I have had very positive interaction with my tax professional. Filings were done on time with no delay and all tax issues were explained to my satisfaction.
We are extremely pleased with the attention to details and professional manner that was extended to us thru DePauw Johnson Tax Services. Thank you
Jeff Johnson is bright sndbb b knowledgeable . I?m glad I have him in my corner doing my taxes. Thanks Jeff
Ben Halperin does an excellent job in providing tax related research in response to our questions throughout the year as well as professional and timely tax return preparation as required. The support staff is also very efficient and courteous. As a result of the above we highly recommend the firm! As an update we now are able to include Suzanne Rooks in this favorable review. Thanks much!
The best service in all of San Diego ! I had a lot of questions due to my taxes being a mess from previous years. Jeff and Meghan did an amazing job explaining everything to me and following up with all the questions I had, They also made sure I had all the right documents for the year with an easy portal they provide for you. Thank you to the DePauw Johnson Tax team, to the lady that always has a smile at the front desk, and all of the tax team experts, you guys are the best.
Taking care of taxes are not high on my list of favorite things to do, however, Susanne makes the whole process pretty painless. She is always there to answer all of my questions in a timely matter and is very organized, keeping what could be a complicated process very simple. How refreshing it is to know I have a team that I can trust and rely on! The whole office has a great vibe and is a joy to work with including Sarah at the front desk. From the beginning to the end of the process you will know you are
Been a loyal client for over 10 years. Jeff and the entire team are excellent. 5 stars. Highly recommend their service.
Thank you, Jeff Johnson, for your good and timely help every year with our tax return. I couldn't do it without you,, and things are so complicated now, I wouldn't even want to try.
I have had my taxes done by Mr. Johnson and Mr. DePauw since 1987. I was telling a receptionist this last year and she stated, "our records only show your history since 1991." We agreed that my services from this company predates computers! Great service, exceptional staff, very knowledgeable professionals, and a brand new beautiful office with easy access.
Shout out to Ria for being awesome!! She picked up my MIL's account from another company due to their unexpected tragedy and did a great job completing her complicated (at least to me) taxes for this year. We honestly considered switching to a local company, because we are doing everything from several states away, but Ria did such a fabulous job, we'll be sticking with DePauw Johnson. The company responds promptly to questions, does what they say they will do and have been a dream to work with! If you
Their team is amazing. Susanne found credits in a past tax year which enabled us to have a sizable return for this year. H&R Block missed it. Very impressed and appreciative. Thank you Susanne??
We've been a long time customer of Depauw Johnson since starting our business in 2016. Through the first few years of service we have been happy with the level of service received. From the start of the pandemic our business grew and required additional services in which we hired Depauw onto doing our payroll and accounting. Payroll has been consistent and we couldn't be happier with their team there. Unfortunately though, the service we have received for the past 18 months in regards to our ongoing bookk
Not a firm that you can count on. Unfortunately we will need to look for a new accountant this year, as Michael Lund has apparently gotten too busy to take care of his old customers. Twice this year we have needed his assistance, and both times he needed to be chased down to get any help. Most recently, we reached out to him and left both a voice message and sent an email requesting an appointment. It has been two weeks now, and still not a single response. Michael Lund is easily the least professional advi
Great company.I have had our business and personal taxes done for years here. Friendly staff and excellent work. Getting your taxes done is never fun, but it is a great experience with Andy, Jeff and the staff.
DePauw Johnson bought my previous CPAs business. They have not lost a beat in providing both outstanding service for my business and personal taxes. I give them 6 stars!!
Awesome initial consultation with Michael. He answered all my questions plus some. Just needed to know how the Trump taxes would effect me and some business tax questions. Great service. I would highly recommend.
Fast and friendly. Even though the tax service is quickly done, I've never felt rushed during an appointment. It's like you're the only appointment for the whole day. Like visiting with an old friend.
Michael was so helpful in assisting me with all of my questions, paperwork, and preparing my taxes. I would highly reccomend choosing DePauw Johnson to anyone looking for help with their taxes or financial needs.
Tremendous and high professional support. The individual team members are always willing and able to support. They are truly the best in the business.
Excellent and timely service.
Ria as always is excellent with a great support staff as well
Always a great experience!!
Always receive excellent service and advice at a fair price. They are experienced in multi state taxes.
Everything went smoothly
Have been using them for years, and have always been pleased with their service!
Always a good experience as far as this process can be. Very fair and thorough. Thanks Ria !
My husband and I have appreciated excellent service for 30 years with DePauw Johnson. We?ll be back again this year.
Ria is the best. She's given me great advice and saved me money.
Horrible service, won't return emails, made mistakes, getting your taxes done is bad enough, throw a bad preparer into the mix and its even more painful than it has to be
It's always a pleasure working with the team from DePauw Johnson Tax and Financial Services.
Very nice people to deal with. Michael is very experienced in his profession
Thank you for helping so promptly!
It is a delight to be a client with a company that is professional, efficient and quite personable.
Highly recommended and up front and very fast! A+
Thank you. Nice, informative and genuinely concerned for our finances.
Very friendly, yet professional. They know their stufff.
Fantastic service. Alwyas very halpful!
Great and quick filing as always! Thanks!
Suzzane was very professional and I was happy with the results
We have used DePauw Johnson for many years, for professional services.
Jeff is the best. Wouldn't go anywhere else.
Professional, knowledgeable, timely service - highly recommended
Excellent as always. Thank you.
Fantastic service and professional people
Excellent in all ways!
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.