*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.*
3550 Round Barn Blvd Suite 205
Santa Rosa, California 95403
Tim has been a huge help to us in learning about investing from the ground up. He focuses greatly on education which is what my husband and I needed. He's willing to take the extra time to talk you through each option and explain things in an absorbable way. We have recommended him to many family and friends because of all these things! He is honest, very communicative and 100% has his client's best interest at heart which felt very important when dealing with money! We highly recommend Tim!
Tim has been an incredible asset in helping me organize and grow my finances. He listened closely to my goals and built a clear, actionable plan that made sense for my situation. His knowledge and ability to explain things in simple terms gave me total confidence. I highly recommend Tim to anyone looking for a financial advisor who truly cares about their clients' success!
I have known Tim Caroll for over 25 years. He is both a friend and a professional colleague of mine from the real estate and mortgage industry. My opinion of him is he is of the utmost integrity and character, and when I found out he'd decided to continue his already successful career as a representative with Edward Jones, I knew right away. I wanted to work with him. I strongly refer Tim to anyone who may read this review.
Tim is a wonderful person to have in our corner as our financial advisor. He is great at what he does and has helped my wife and I tremendously. He is kind and professional, I highly recommend
Tim is the greatest! Really walked me through the process of investing in a way that was entirely understandable. He knows his stuff, but isn't arrogant in the slightest. I guess I can say he made me feel like family!
"I've been working with Tim Carroll as my financial advisor and couldn't be more pleased. He is extremely knowledgeable and has consistently delivered excellent returns on my investments. Tim takes the time to explain things clearly, and I trust his advice completely. Whether you're just starting out or looking to further your financial goals, I highly recommend Tim to anyone seeking professional and reliable financial guidance."
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.