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Emerson Financial

Emerson Financial

Reviews Summary

Customers consistently praise the team for their exceptional service, deep expertise, and commitment to securing the best rates. They highlight seamless, stress-free processes, clear communication, and going above expectations—whether for purchases, refinancing, or complex deals. Many note significant savings, faster closings than competitors, and a focus on long-term client well-being over transactions. The team’s professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to simplify complex financial decisions earn repeated recommendations.

About This Listing

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Real Estate

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Real Estate

Contact Information

Address

675 Mariners Island Blvd STE 107

San Mateo, California 94404

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Tuesday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Wednesday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Thursday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Friday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Starting a business, I had questions on how to best pull equity out of a property so I called & Dan picked up. I had explored many options & Dan not only knew about them all but was able to suggest an avenue I hadn?t thought of. At multiple points in the conversation I realized Dan really cares about long term client well being rather than just a transaction today. I really respect someone like Dan who reaches a point where they value using their knowledge to primarily steer people right rather than lookin

Dan and Michelle make up an exceptional team. Over the years, I've worked with them for my mortgage and refinancing needs. Dan consistently provides valuable information, from market updates to daily treasury yields. I've recommended them to my friends and my agent, who have all given positive feedback in return. In loan financing, timing and accuracy are crucial, and Dan and Michelle excel in both. Throughout the process, their professionalism shines through their detailed, responsive, and prompt completi

Michelle was such a blessing to work with! She was incredible with her communication - only called or emailed to deliver good news and next steps, and made sure that I never felt stressed throughout the process. Not only did she make sure that this was a hands-off process for me, but she overdelivered on the rate I got. I'm saving more money than I originally expected, and it's thanks to her doing all the research! I've worked with 3 mortgage brokers before (also with great reviews on Yelp), but she is THE

I contacted Emerson Financial based on the reviews and ratings on Yelp. My experience with Michelle definitely shows why they're five stars! She helped with me refinance from a 30 year loan to a 15 year. I thought the process would've been stressful but Michelle made it easy and smooth. Extremely professional and answered all my questions. I'm super satisfied with the rate I got when it's all said and done. Work with Emerson and save yourself time!

Michelle helped me to purchase my home. She explained me the options, made the whole application to closing so seamless and easy. She is highly available for any questions, so patient and friendly she guide me excellently in every step of the process. I will definitely recommend her to anyone to consider as a loan officer. At the end, not only home i earned a friend.

Dan is great. He is the first home finance person I've found who could not only keep up with me, but was a step ahead. I've unfortunately had the experience of having to flog finance folks to get things done, but with Dan, that was not an issue at all. We joked about both being type A's. Dan helped me with a complex refi- and unit purchase and was able to get the title company in line so that it all worked out. Dan also secured an amazing rate for me. It was .7% better than what I was being offered elsewh

I've had to do a more than a few loans over the years and by far, Emerson Financial was the best experience. They made everything easy, they are extremely efficient and professional. Michelle is so pleasant to deal with and worked extra hard to save costs and get the best rate.

I?ve know Dan for a few years now. He help my family with our first mortgage and then with refinancing that same mortgage when the rates dropped during COVID. He explained the entire process thoroughly and made the entire process as easy as possible. He worked tirelessly to get us the best deal possible both times and really went above and beyond helping us meet the requirements from the lenders.

I can't thank Dan Emerson and his team enough for making our refinance so easy. Dan communicated with us regularly and we had no surprises. He was able to lock us into a rate that saved us considerably each month that was much less than quotes from other lenders. In addition our refinance closed much faster than two other lenders quoted. Thank you so much Dan! Bill McDonald Redwood City

She is the best in business for any type of residential loan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.