*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.*
4096 Piedmont Ave
Oakland, California 94611
Freedom Makers made hiring a VA experience easy and professional from day one. The onboarding process was flawless?smooth, well-structured, and supportive. My VA was kind, helpful, and always prompt. Although I ended up offboarding due to a shift in my workload, I wouldn't hesitate to work with them again or recommend them to others looking for reliable support!
Freedom Makers is a wonderful company providing excellent services while supporting a great cause! I've used Freedom Makers virtual assistant for the last 9 months or so and my VA was exceptional! She created and posted social media content, created a business Facebook page, updated my website, refreshed and maintained both my business as well as personal LinkedIn pages. When researching companies that offered VA services I found Freedom Makers had some significant differences. 1) they only charged you fo
Freedom makers has a wonderful vision and great team!! Have really enjoyed working with them and their customer service is second to none. Highly recommend
I have worked with two Freedom Makers and have been consistently pleased with their work. Both have also been conservative in their hours recorded -- to a degree that I have once or twice encouraged that they be less so. I have found the organization helpful and the administrative process easy to work with. I no doubt could find a comparable resource that is somewhat cheaper. But the combination of productivity (cost-effectiveness) and mission (supporting the families of our troops) are, together, more tha
I have been a Freedom Maker since 2016. I am so grateful to FMVS for the many opportunities I've given, all while being able to balance my top priority--family. What an incredible blessing to stay at home with my kids, and be able to work with incredible clients. I have always been treated well at Freedom Makers--from personalized check-ins, to training opportunities, to having the freedom to choose my clients and hours. They really care for the military spouse!
Freedom Makers saved me! I needed assistance and did not have the time to post a job, interview and hire someone. Freedom Makers was able to find someone to fit my need with little effort on my part. I have been using various Freedom Makers for 2 1/2 years now and am very happy with the skill level of the people that have been helping me, and with the overall ease of the process.
I have only been working as a contractor with Freedom Makers for a little over one month now, however, this has been such a great company and work experience do far! I love the Freedom it gives me as a retired veteran to schedule my workload with my client selection and how I have endless opportunities to find the right clients that I gel with to support them in their everyday business needs from so many career backgrounds! Working with Jenny, Kaci, and Amy regularly had been so pleasant that I love feeling
My company has benefited greatly from the services of several Freedom Makers' virtual assistants over the last 2+ years. I would highly recommend this service to any small business seeking help with many tasks that can be delegated to save time and energy.
I very much wanted to support my fellow military spouses but was thoroughly disappointed by what was delivered (correction "not delivered"). After spending a few meetings going over my needs for social media and interviewing my Freedom Maker to choose from, I thought we were well on our way. We came across a few messaging and then technology hurdles to which I tried to make convenient for the girl helping me, but she kept on insisting on using her software/services on her accounts. I was fine with this, but
FMVS is a FANTASTIC company to work with. The team pairs military vets and spouses with entrepreneurs for virtual work. I love that I can work from anywhere the military sends my family.
Most oddest strangest company / interview I have encountered. I think they should rethink advertising to military communities.
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.