*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.*
5543 Partridge Ct
Westlake Village, California 91362
Heidi has been doing the bookkeeping for my dog grooming business for almost 3 years now. She is very professional, responsive and knowledgeable. She makes the process so smooth and easy and sends very detailed spreadsheets. I really can't recommend Heidi enough! You will be so happy you decided to go to her for your bookkeeping needs!
Heidi is a wonderful asset to me at my place of work, my husband's business and to us personally. She is quick to respond when questions arise, willing to help with bookkeeping issues big and small, and is always pleasant while working with us.
Heidi took over our bookkeeping earlier this year for our partnership. It was a seamless transfer and she reached out to our tax adviser to clarify and correct a few past entries. She is on top of everything and very professional. Her knowledge of not only QuickBooks Pro but her general accounting knowledge is invaluable. I wish I had made the change to Heidi years ago!
We are so pleased to have Heidi as our financial consultant. When she arrived, we handed her several challenging situations needing immediate action. Heidi was able to bring the situations to successful conclusions.
SAVED US Heidi is the nicest. She came to us (we are a private instruction art studio) when we were traumatically abandoned in the middle of Covid by our previous accountant of 10 years. She has put everything back in order. She is very accommodating, kind and professional. Highly recommend her!
Have worked with Heidi for several years and very happy with the quality and timing of her work. Have referred Heidi to my peers with great feedback and would highly recommend Heidi now.
HDonovan Consulting was instrumental in helping launch my start up small business. Her relevant business knowledge and applicable QuickBooks expertise really made the difference in enabling my company to hit the ground running. She implemented a business specific and easy to use solution, allowing me to focus on start up activities and not worry about the financial and accounting system. Her ability to access and deliver user training and support materials was extremely valuable. I am looking forward to
A pleasure to worth with. Knowledgeable, professional, reliable and punctual. I highly recommend this company.
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.