*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.*
22342 Avenida Empresa Ste 240
Rancho Santa Margarita, California 92688
What truly stands out about Jeff is his genuine commitment to helping people prepare confidently for retirement. He takes the time to listen to each client's unique hopes and concerns, translating complex financial concepts into clear, actionable plans that people can actually understand and feel good about. If you're looking for someone to help guide your financial planning towards your retirement dreams, Jeff is your guy!
I personally worked with Jeff to set up accounts for all three of my kids, and I have to say?it was an excellent experience. He's knowledgeable about the product, truly has your best interest at heart, and makes the entire process incredibly easy. I especially appreciated how convenient he made everything; we even had a call on Black Friday while most people in his field were off. I highly recommend Jeff!
With a lot of choices available to choose from, regarding one's personal financial planning, Jeff is extremely knowledgeable and his experience shines above many. I definitely recommend Jeff in helping you with your financial and estate planning, personal insurance, and related matters.
Jeff has made a huge impact on me and my families life. We are in a much better place now because of his planning and will be able to enjoy retirement earlier than we originally thought. He also does our companies 401k offering which has put our employees is a much better financial position. I highly recommend Jeff and his team!
Jeff and Kelli are fantastic. They are honest and always put my needs first. Great communication and they helped me realize I can travel several times a year while still staying on track with my plan. Edward Jones is a great company and I am glad Jeff and his team are here as my retirement needs are in great hands.
Jeff?s a total professional and truly knows the inner workings of everything in regards to financial planning. I highly recommend him; if you're looking for someone to help in planning your retirement then look no further
Anyone looking for real financial advice and tools should check out Jeff. He is with Edward Jones and can really help navigate these current financial waters safely.
I trust Jeff to work with my clients. He is very knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile to make sure my clients get the service they need and education they deserve. I gladly refer Jeff when my clients have a need.
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.