*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.*
3400 Cottage Way suite G2
Sacramento, California 95825
Victoria & ERC Refund hero were great! Victoria and erc refund hero were great! The process was a fast and very easy and required gathering our payroll and 941 information to ensure you are qualified for the Credit. We received our refunds, and Victoria reached out each month to answer questions and concerns while we were waiting on the IRS. I would highly recommend them.
ERC Refund Hero - Great Service! This was almost a year long process, but Paul and Mike with ERH gave us monthly updates on the progress of our refund. They were very helpful with any questions along the way, either by phone or email. Thank you for your help and service!
ERC Refund Hero is top notch! ERC Refund Hero is top notch! I had numerous phone calls from other 'ERC specialists' but only chose to work with ERC Refund Hero when they were recommended by our community bank. Mike Southwick was our Customer Account Representative and was so helpful throughout the entire process. He was very professional and checked in monthly until we received all our refunds. We had NO adjustments from the IRS. Their calculations were spot on. Thanks Mike!
The team at ERC Refund Hero was outstanding. From the initial call, to navigating the process, to the monthly check-ins, everyone was great...especially Mike Southwick! Thank you, Mike, for your attentiveness and follow-through!
Did a great job, 5 stars. Erica Did a great job and was very easy to work with. I had thought about doing this for several months. Had many people tell me it would not work for us due to getting PPE 2 times. Erica walked me through the entire process and worked with me in retrieving the right documents to get a best qualification. ERC Refund Hero made it happen. It is free and worth the time.
Clear and effective process! Our gratitude to Tyler for navigating us through the application process and Natalie for the communication as we waited to receive our refund. The application process was thorough and any questions we've had these past months were swiftly and clearly answered. The results are greatly appreciated!!
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.