*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.*
777 E Tahquitz Canyon Way Suite 200-58
Palm Springs, California 92262
Byron is outstanding. I am pleased to refer any serious investors to Hancock Partners in PalmSprings. You will not be disappointed. Dr. Forest Irons
I've been working with Byron since the start of 2022, possibly the worst time to invest my nest egg into the stock market. Nevertheless, under Byron's watchful eye, market experience and financial savvy, plus regular consultations, he expertly guided my assets toward my financial goal and I can happily say that thanks to Byron, I'm in an excellent financial position to retire. I am so happy with Byron and Cathy's prompt, friendly, and caring attention to every detail and question I have, I honestly don't kn
for Byron Hancock & Hancock Partners! They have been handling my financial affairs for 30 years. I have complete trust in Byron & his team. They have helped me invest for the private school & private college tuition/expenses for my son; he graduated with ZERO debt! They have assisted me with my investments for purchasing and selling my condo. They have guided me through my retirement at age 70+, and are advising me to ensure my comfortable life-long retirement. I am very happy with Hancock Partne
Management of my investments and long-term financial planning were never a preferred activity or personal strength. Byron developed a plan and a strategy that is tailored to my current situation and future needs relieving my anxieties over my finances. I am confident that the advice I get from Byron is the best and I plan on remaining with him and his team in the future.
3 decades ago when I was disinterested in all things financial, I recall Byron introducing to my small workgroup the easy-enough ?envelope? strategy of weekly budgeting. My interest has since done a 180 and Byron has guided and grown my modest retirement in ways that I'm amazed and grateful for. He and his team recently provided urgently needed info required by an irritating property management group I was dealing with, and they've all been patient and efficient with the many changes to my personal info I?v
Byron and Company have assisted my financial planning needs for over 30 yrs. I have found his expertise and level of professionalism beyond an A+. His staff is just as helpful and friendly. My main concerns were during the 2008 recession, where I felt quite unsteady with the direction of my investments. Byron was able to recalibrate my funds, and I am elated that I stuck through it all with his firm.
Byron Hancock and his team at Hancock Partners are exceptional as my Wealth Managers. Through smart investing and management of my portfolio work has indeed become optional. Thank you Byron and team!!!!
I've been investing in the market for more than a decade, and have been doing very well. I've recently turned my assets over to Byron Hancock and his incredible team, and his performance is much better than mine was, with no effort on my part! Higher gains, less angst. Just what I was looking for. Thanks to the Hancock Team.
I want to take this moment to express my sincere thanks and gratitude for the exceptional service that Hancock Partners has provided me in my estate planning and financial investments management. Their dedication, knowledge and professionalism have made a positive impact on my financial investments and I am incredibly grateful their assistance. Their thorough understanding of my financial needs and ability to provide tailored solutions have been invaluable. Their patience in answering my many questions an
I have been a Hancock Partners client since the beginning of the year, and have been extremely satisfied with the results (admittedly in a good market climate), and specifically with their rapid response to any question/concern I have had. It's nice to know they're paying attention to me and I'm being listened to.
Byron is great. very personable. He was very clear about goals and investments. The plan that he sent me for my investments was clear and easy to understand. I feel like I have invested safely and with someone I can really trust.
Byron and his team have been my financial advisors for almost two decades. They are responsive to my needs and concerns and have gone out of their way sure my investments are on solid ground.
Byron has managed our investments over the past eight plus years to meet our goals of capital growth and preservation which enables our current retirement. John and Christy Coulston
We have been using Hancock partners for several years, and are extremely pleased with their service and knowledge of investments and retirement planning. Byron is a real pro!
Byron Thank you for being an excellent advisor. I appreciate you listening to my needs and making sure I understand my investments to prepare me for my future goals. I really appreciate you and your team.
Byron Hancock has been my financial advisor for over 20 years. He is fantastic.
We appreciate Byron's holistic approach to helping us build future financial security and enjoy our lives now.
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.