*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.*
707 Merchant St
Vacaville, California 95688
I was referred to Deanna from a co-worker when I was ready to begin my home purchase process and was looking for a well-seasoned and professional VA loan specialist. My co-worker expressed that Deanna is the "best" in the business and... "You won't find a better loan specialist in all of Solano County." Beginning with my initial phone call to Deanna through the entire purchase process until my house closed... she was the "best" and allowed my entire experience to be almost seamless. Every phone call, email,
I have to second all of the favorable reviews on here. I was so gun-shy after buying my home two years ago that I was terrified to begin the process. Deanna was always available for any questions that I had and I was able to submit all of my paperwork online easily through her website. She sent a mobile notary out shortly after approval. A month later, I have a new loan, a great interest rate, and a boatload of gratitude for the great folks at Downtown Lending.
There are really not enough good things I could write about our experience with Downtown Lending Group. Deanna was always there to help us with any questions, made everything very clear to us and worked around our hectic lifestyle. She did a great job of presenting us with different options and guiding us to a decision that was best. I have to also commend the ease of which Downtown Lending Group makes uploading documents through their secure porthole. It was so nice to be able to simply scan and upload all
I found Deanna when searching for a mortgage lender online. Her reviews were fabulous, so I decided to give her a try. The BEST decision I ever made. This has been my 4th home purchase and she is BY FAR the best I have ever worked with. She explains every detail, is lightening fast with the paperwork and even responded to my questions on weekends. My realtor has been extremely impressed as well and will be recommending her to future clients. In my opinion, you can't go wrong by working with Deanna Shimboff.
We were referred to Deanna by our realtor Tim. Deanna assisted us in every aspect of securing our VA loan at the lowest interest rate! She helped us correct an error in our credit history with the credit companies. Deanna is a credit to herself, her profession and to the community. It was a real honor to have worded with her, someone you could trust and admire!!
I honestly couldn't imagine ever even being able to go through the process of purchasing our first home without Deanna. She has made it so easy for us to understand all the in's and out's of buying a home and what we needed to do to be more than ready to purchase a home. Not only has she spent countless hours helping us, she has made us feel so comfortable and so hopeful. She has been a godsend for my family and myself and without her I can guarantee you, we would have never been able to do it! I will never
Deanna, she was referred by great realtor Tim. Deanna assisted us in our VA Loan at the lowest interest rate. It was areal honor to have worked with her, you can trust.
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.