*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.*
234 W Napa St
Sonoma, California 95476
Went there to set up a trust, didn't know much about the process. Eric, Amy, and Victoria were so kind and patient. Never felt rushed and didn't force me into making quick decisions. The entire process was wonderful and the office was a delight to work with. I highly recommend Gullotta Law Group!!!
My husband, Tim & I, after a deaths of family members, have gone through both a Probate and a Living Trust, we decided having a Living Trust was what we wanted. We didn't think twice about who we were going to have help us put our documents in order. Eric Gullotta, just like his Dad, makes you feel like family the minute you step through his doors. We never felt rushed, we never felt like we asked a silly question or too many questions. Eric just sat back in his chair, very relaxed, and talked to us as long
I recently had the pleasure of working with Eric Gullotta a trust and probate attorney who not only exceeded my expectations but also provided invaluable peace of mind during a potentially stressful process. From start to finish, Eric and his staff demonstrated expertise, compassion, and a genuine commitment to my needs. In revising my original trust documents, Eric displayed a remarkable level of attention to detail. He meticulously reviewed every aspect of my trust, ensuring that it aligned perfectly wit
Eric and team guided me through the task of distributing my parents estate. I did not realize how much needs to be done when you are executor and without their help I would have been lost. If you have the unfortunate job of executor, I would highly recommend hiring The Gullotta Law Group to help you navigate the process.
Eric and staff. Jumped in to help me upgrade My trust/ estate and will. It was as if I knew Eric all my life.
Eric Gullotta and Tina Rodriguez helped my family with updates to our Trust. We wanted changes made in a timely manner and Eric and Tina delivered. Eric made us feel very comfortable throughout the process and took the time to answer any and all questions we had. We highly recommend the Gullotta Law Group and plan to continue using their services for our estate planning needs.
Very professional and they were happy to make revisions as needed. Answered all questions with utmost consideration.
Eric has been our attorney since 2017. He helped us with updating our wills, durable powers of attorney as well as trusts we wanted written up. He made the process easy, uncomplicated and when done, we were completely comfortable with the decisions we made. He is now and has been for 2+ years, helping our uncle with a pretty unorthodox situation. His advice and help through it all has been indispensable. Hiring Eric and his team was the best decision we could have made.
We have known Eric for many years. When it was time to create our trust, there was no question in our minds as to where we would go. Eric is extremely knowledgeable and can explain complex legalities and quickly answer questions in layman's terms. He is patient, quick witted and funny, but also entirely professional and businesslike as well. We highly recommend Eric for making what could be a stressful time easy.
I recently used Eric Gullotta's services to redo my trust, will, power or attorney & advanced healthcare directive. The process was super quick, easy and painless. Working with both Eric and Ashley Rose, his legal assistance was really great, they are efficient, explained things throughly and made the process as easy as possible!
Superior service! Eric and his staff (especially Ashley) provided a great deal of knowledge, comfort, and humor while we worked through our Estate Planning process. We were apprehensive about the process Eric and Ashley alleviated our fears as they answered our questions and walked us through the process until we were comfortable. Bill & Lisa
Eric and Ashley are a pleasure to work with! I am a new homeowner and I wanted to make a plan to protect my new assets and future desires. I was guided and given extremely helpful advice in order to protect my newly acquired asset and make a future plan! If you guys need a trust or are in need of an estate planning attorney call the Gullotta Law Group!
I highly recommend Gullotta Law Group. From start to finish, Eric Gullotta explained in detail the steps to creating an Estate Plan, and was always available for questions. I especially appreciated that Eric and staff were very accommodating through the entire process, and made it possible in the midst of a pandemic.
Met twice with the Gullotta Law Group and was very impressed with their professional and yet friendly and warm staff. All of our estate planning was completed well and we now feel sure that everything will be handled according to our desires after our deaths. I would recommend this group to anyone and everyone who needs to get this work completed...
Our time with Eric Gullotta and his staff was seamless and effortless. He was very informative and patient affirming that my 91y.o. Mother understood all the details and information that were provided. We were very impressed and pleased with the services.
Professional and explains every detail, supported by a pleasant and well informed support team.
From the moment you walk in Ashley welcomes you with her warm smile and professional demeanor. Eric provides a reassuring, thoughtful, and through approach to what otherwise might be a difficult subject matter. Don't put off today what is necessary for a better tomorrow. Great service.
During a difficult time in my life, my mother?s passing. Eric and the GLG staff were empathetic and caring during the entire process. I was initially overwhelmed by the thought of administering my mother?s trust but they walked me through the entire process and communicated with me every step of the way.
Eric made planning for my family's future easy and pain-free. What could be difficult conversations were seamlessly navigated with his help and expertise. Thank you!
Eric cuts to the quick, knows what he doesn't know, is clear about his expertise and experience, and was very helpful in steering me to the right resources. No pretense, knowledgeable about estate planning and willing to help in whatever way he can.
Process was smooth, efficient, thorough, attentive and friendly?
After being very confused about a great number of things for a long while I finally just walked into a different place to get a "2nd opinion" glad I did; my needs were more urgent than I realized or had been previously been told. After 20 minutes at Gullotta Law Group I finally understood what was what, fired the other guy and never looked back. My children's futures were on the line and I didn't even know.
Kind and understanding of my needs. Issues and processes explained by Mr Gullotta to my satisfaction. Great support staff as well.
Everything we needed for our estate planning was handled with expert knowledge and patience with us. And all through this difficult time too. We highly recommend Gullotta Law Firm.
Eric was very helpful, patient and answered all our questions in a language easy to understand. We are very pleased with his service and recommend him highly.
This was a difficult situation that required patience and ingenuity, which was handled very well. We would highly recommend Eric.
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.