*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.*
18818 Teller Ave #275
Irvine, California 92612
I've been very pleased with Tim Folkers and the team at Folkers & Associates. They're knowledgeable, thorough, and always take the time to explain things clearly. Tim has helped me navigate both personal and small business taxes with integrity and confidence. Highly recommend!
I've been a bookkeeper for 18 years and I've never worked with a better CPA than Folkers & Associates. Tim and Rich are detailed and communicative. They take time to explain the best course of action for each company. I appreciate all the reminders and clear communication as what needs to be done. I highly recommend Folkers & Associates to any company that needs a CPA.
Folkers & Associates have been able to answer my questions and complete tax-related projects in a timely, detail-oriented manner. Team is always pleasant and responsive.
Best accountants! They are thorough and know exactly what needs to be done to maximize tax benefits. Highly recommend!
I am completely happy with all the help I've gotten from Folkers & Associates. I've worked with both Tim and Suzanne. They are both very calm, knowledgeable, thorough, proactive and accessible. I think they are experts at both accounting and complicated tax law. My situation is complicated and I barely understand it myself, but when I started with them a few years ago they asked specific questions that let them understand the big picture and details. They have given me great advice. They always take my call
Folkers & Assoc. have been doing my personal and business taxes for twelve years now. Tim is wonderful to work with. He's so personable, professional and fun. All his staff are great too! They all provide excellent customer service, which is hard to come by these days. Highly recommend them.
Tim Folkers (CPA) is top notch. He has done my taxes for 15 years and saved me a lot of money. He is constantly reviewing new and existing tax laws and sends me a monthly news letter to keep me informed. A few words to describe Tim? Honest, knowledgeable, professional, caring, hard-working, productive, and he has a good sense of humor. Tim immediately responds to random questions I ask during the year. I have recommended him to every one of my family members and friends. Those recommendations began 15
Tim is much more than an 'accountant', putting numbers in boxes. He truly cares about his clients, and he and his team act proactively to address and solve the more complex, meaningful issues that they face. He brings real value to those relationships, above and beyond the balance sheet. I have enjoyed working with Tim and would highly recommend him and his firm.
Tim has been doing my taxes since 1979 and I have referred many of my clients to him. Tim and his staff are great and I would strongly recommend Folkers, Choi & Associates for all of your accounting needs. Bruce B.
I have worked with many CPA?s over the years and haven't come across one like Tim and his team. Hands down the best accountant is Orange County. Very attentive to his clients and an expert in his practice. Two thumbs up!
Tim Folkers has been handling our corporate and personal taxes for several years. Tim knows corporate tax law extremely well and keeps us in compliance. We are a company that deals with the ever changing world of technology and need to stay focused on that, not the ever changing world of corporate tax law, that's what Tim and is and his staff are for. Additionally, if you ever need help with QuickBooks, Tim is the man, I can't tell you how many times he's straightened us out on QuickBooks issues. Our staff
Tim, has been providing tax services for me personally and for my business since 2005. He is good at what he does, a bountiful source of information when it comes to taxes and a pleasure to work with him and his staff. I have recommended him and will continue to do so. Keep up the good work Tim. Blessings Darryl Santa
Hands down the best accountant we have ever had. Tim and his whole office have gone above and beyond in assisting us with all of our accounting needs. He does my business and personal taxes and I can't recommend Tim and his team enough!!
I have used Folkers & Associates for both my business and personal CPA needs for years. Tim and his team have always been professional, responsive, patient, and helpful.
Tim and Folkers - Choi have been providing tax and accounting services for our family for over 10 years. Their firm is very professional, stays up to date on all matters pertaining to our taxes and are always available to answer questions. A professional firm with a personal touch.
I have been with Tim and Folkers, Choi and Associates for years, both my personal and business needs. He has always done a fantastic job, thorough, creative and knowledgeable. He has become an invaluable resource and integral part of my business operations. The staff is tops as well. Thank you Tim, Angie and everyone.
Tim Folkers and his team are incredibly responsive and have provided me with accounting support and financial advice. They always go above expectations. I would highly recommend them,
Folkers & Associates is very good group of CPAs. Suzanne is Awesome!
Best Accountant in the world. Been using them for years, have always saved me tons of cash. No plans to change!
Best CPA services in Orange County.
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.