*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.*
26895 Aliso Creek Rd B-237
Aliso Viejo, California 92656
Nycole Freer at Eden Financial is an absolute gem! She is incredibly smart, always generous with her time, and consistently provides holistic advice that truly meets you where you?re at. Her low fees and expert guidance make financial planning feel approachable and tailored to your goals. Nycole makes you feel like her number one client every time?she genuinely listens and offers practical, down-to-earth advice that?s personalized and actionable. Highly recommend her for anyone who wants a trusted financial
I cannot recommend Nycole Freer enough. From the very beginning, it was clear that she genuinely listened to my concerns and goals. She took the time to fully understand my financial situation and created a personalized plan that felt not only achievable but also aligned with my long-term aspirations. Nycole's supportive and approachable nature made working with her an absolute pleasure. She has a talent for breaking down complex financial concepts into simple, easy-to-understand terms. I never felt pressu
Nycole is a brilliant advisor who serves her clients well. She goes above and beyond to provide valuable information in a timely manner. Families are lucky to have Nycole on their side!
It's always a pleasure working with Nycole whether I need advice or just run by options for investments with her. She is a very smart advisor and I highly recommend you booking a meeting with Nycole so she can help you in 20225.
Nycole Freer, is the most caring advisor I have ever met. She is a great listener and always looks at the long and short term plan.
Nycole is very professional, caring, and attentive to client needs. Her emails and blogs are very informative and helpful. I highly recommend her financial services and advice.
Nycole is knowledgeable, kind, wise, and discerning. I've taken her financial advice to heart and would highly recommend you reach out for a consultation!
Working with Nycole has given me piece of mind that my finances will be maximized to their fullest potential up through retirement and beyond.....Nycole has shed light on many financial opportunities that I didn't know were available to me or even existed...It's fair to say that I sleep well at night knowing my financial future is looked after with care and expertise...Thank You Nicole !!!!!
It?s been a pleasure working with Nycole for all my financial needs! She?s helped me maximize my investments so I can focus on the work I need to get done.
Nicole has been a great resource for me and my family in the last year. She is knowledgeable, friendly and fastidious.
I was so lucky to have a one-on-one meeting with Nycole, the Founder of Eden Financial. I've also had an opportunity to hear her speak twice at events. Her vision to help families, and people of every walk of life, is inspiring and very needed. She has made services once reserved for only the highest net worth individuals available to everyone. She is a talented advisor for anyone - no matter what stage of wealth accumulation or planning you might be in.
Nycole is wonderful to speak with and her knowledge and follow through is unmatched.
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.