*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.*
10078 Alta Sierra Dr
Grass Valley, California 95949
I am a little late in writing this review, but working with Jared was a fantastic experience. Jared was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire lending process. He went above and beyond to ensure we understood every step and secured the best loan for our new home. We highly recommend Jared and Golden State Home Loans to anyone in need of a reliable and dedicated home lender! Thank you for everything!
Working with Jared through the lending process was a great experience. He was patient with us and answered all of our first time buyer questions. We would definitely recommend him for your next purchase.
From my personal experience, and from my clients' experience, Jared is the best of the best! As a busy real estate professional, I have worked with many lenders over the years. Navigating the ever-changing world of lending can be daunting, even for the most experienced home buyer. Vital to this process is professionalism, honesty, integrity. Jared is all those things & more! He is very knowledgeable and responsive. In my experience, no matter what your situation, Jared will tirelessly work with you to rea
Jared was the best! We were first time home buyers from the Bay area and knew nothing of the home buying process. Jared was fast and efficient in every way in securing the best rate and loan. Jared took care of every question and request we had at any time of the day. Shopping for a trustworthy person is hard these days but Jared bent over backwards for our family. We now have a great home!
Golden State Home loans did a great job! Jared was so knowledgeable about the market that when the builders' lender was trying to steal me away (never would happen) and lock me in at high rate, he was patient, and able to get me over a point lower. Submitting paperwork was a breeze, and he found the best lender for our situation. Truly a consimate professional at all times, even when I was frantic. ??
Jared was wonderful. This is the first mortgage I have gotten since I retired. It was complicated because I had 4 sources of income which had to be verified. Then in the middle of it Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae changed the rules and we had to start over with a new lender while rates were rising. Jared and his team had excellent communication and follow up. He was very concerned to find a lender who could get me the same rate I started out with. I am a former commercial banker, and so I know a few thin
This guy Jared is a flat out liar. Resorts to personal attacks as a rule. Stay away! I have no idea how he has so many good reviews only that my assumption is that they are fake. Have personally spoken to many individuals in relators who have had a bad experience with this guy. They just don't bother to warn other people. Is often the case where these people will ask friends and family to leave them reviews that aren't accurate. My review is based on working with Jared for a brief time. Nothing I say here i
I can not say enough good things here! Being a first time home buyer, and first generation home buyer at that, I was really nervous about the whole process. Jared really walked both myself and my husband through everything step by step and had the utmost patience in thoroughly explaining everything we had questions about. It really felt like we were in good hands and made the best choice out of our options when we decided to work with Golden State Home Loans. I highly recommend this team of dedicated people
I've worked with Jared on multiple mortgages and subsequently sent all of my family and friends to him. He his honest, intelligent, and a great communicator. Let Jared find the best deal for you; look no further, this is your new loan officer.
I have worked with Jared for years. He just helped me buy an investment property lowest quote I came across and closed in 2 weeks. Buying a home is stressful and Jared and his team make it seamless. Thanks again look forward to working with you and your team again!
Jared was helpful, informative and responsive. Not only did he help us secure our Family home, he also made it simple and painless! Thanks Jared, we highly recommend you to all our friends!
We had a great experience with Jared. Golden State is a small family owned business that really goes out of their way to get you great rates. I recommend them to all my friends. Super happy.
Jared and his team helped us on a refinance, locking in a rate and terms as agreed in a very timely manner. Truly fantastic. He and his team kept us informed and closed well in advance of our expectations.. Highly recommended.
The Golden State Home Loans team was great to work with. They worked on multiple loans for me and got me the best possible deal out there. I was very happy with the refi as they beat other competitor rates and were great to work with. I will continue to go back to them. Jared, Elaine and Lisa were the best!
Hands down the best mortgage broker around. Jared is fantastic with jumbo loans and also first time home buyers! Always available by phone, text and email.
I had an awesome experience. Jared was great and always stayed positive..
Golden State Home Loans was a referral from a friend, who was very pleased with her experience. Jarod Acosta was our broker. He was informative, professional and available to answer my questions. Process was easy and quick. No surprises, and just the loan program we wanted.
I shopped 5 companies and Jared had the lowest rate and lowest closing costs of them all. They also closed the loan in half the time I expected and were very responsive to my communications. Great experience!
Jared and team did a fantastic job with our very difficult refi. Kudos to the whole team! Highly recommended.
Great people to work with! We actually had a couple loan options going, and this team was able to secure us the best rate!!
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.