*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.*
20351 Irvine Ave Suite C1/C2
Newport Beach, California 92660
Hitchman Fiduciaries is truly outstanding. Their professionalism, integrity, and deep understanding of fiduciary responsibilities set them apart in the industry. Whether handling complex estate matters, managing finances, or providing trusted advocacy for clients, they do so with the utmost care and expertise.
I highly recommend seeing Annelise. She is so caring, kind, and compassionate. It was so confusing and difficult to navigate all of these financial matters. She was so patient and explained everything in great detail and offered lots of options. I'm so glad she was able to take care of the paperwork for us. She's very professional and experienced. Very responsive via email and a phone too!
I have had the pleasure of working with Hitchman Fiduciaries for several years, and I am consistently impressed with their outstanding trustee management services. Navigating the complexities of family trusts can be daunting, but Hitchman Fiduciaries make it seem effortless. Their team exemplifies integrity, professionalism, and honesty in every interaction. Hitchman Fiduciaries invests the time to understand the unique needs of each trust, providing tailored solutions that ensures the best outcomes for al
As a real estate broker and property manager, I have the pleasure of working with Hitchman Fiduciaries on a regular basis, and I can't recommend them highly enough! Their professionalism, dedication, and attention to detail are truly unparalleled. Every interaction is smooth, efficient, and handled with the utmost care. The team is not only knowledgeable but also incredibly supportive. If you're in need of estate management, trust administration, or any other fiduciary services, Hitchman Fiduciaries should
I've had the pleasure of working with Hitchman Fiduciaries for several years now, and it's clear why they're the leaders in their field. I'm consistently impressed by their thoroughness, proactive communication, and compassion. I confidently recommend them to friends, family, and colleagues in need of professional fiduciary services. The entire team at Hitchman deserves recognition for their amazing work, and setting the bar for all fiduciaries.
Hitchman Fiduciaries have seemingly made an art of navigating the arduous task of the trustee business for numerous family trusts and attorneys. I was referred to them from one of my best clients as a vender (real estate appraiser) and I have had the honor of working with them for several years. It is very important to me to surround myself with a good client base that shares my ideals for a professional service (integrity, professionalism, and honesty) and Hitchman is all that and more. I can only hope to
Brett Hitchman and his team are consummate professionals. I have worked with them on several mutual clients and they always have their client's interest first. The are responsive and technically astute. Highly recommend this company for anyone needing a fiduciary.
Working with Hitchman Fiduciaries has been an absolute pleasure. Their team exemplifies professionalism and expertise in managing the administration and distribution of estate matters. From meticulous attention to detail to proactive communication, they have consistently provided top-notch service. I highly recommend them for anyone seeking trustworthy guidance in their trust and estate journey.
I have had several opportunities to work with Hitchman Fiduciaries, and I would have to say that they are very knowledgeable, thorough and detailed in their efforts to make sure that their clients funds are managed wisely. They take their responsibility to their clients very seriously. Most often I find that they want the best for their clients and that really shows with my dealings with LeeAnn, Bruce, Annelise and Michael. Its nice knowing they they are also down to earth people, and not aloof and dispassi
I have been working with the Hitchman's for several years now and they are by far one of the best fiduciary groups around. They exhibit the highest level of professionalism and can handle the most complex cases. They truly care and every interaction is supportive and productive. This is the team you want handling your family affairs.
I have worked with Hitchman Fiduciaries on several matters, and I can unequivocally say they are the premier Professional Fiduciary group in SoCal. The entire Hitchman Fiduciary team, from the Hitchman family (Lee Ann, Bruce, Brett, Annelise) to their asset manager, Michael Lefonts, combines intelligence and business acumen with a warm, personal touch. I confidently recommend Hitchman Fiduciaries to friends, family members, and colleagues seeking trusted Professional Fiduciaries that can handle even the mo
I was referred to Hitchman Fiduciaries back in 2020 during the thick of unprecedented times and continue to work with them today. As a professional myself with 18+ years of experience with working with other local fiduciary companies, I always found the Hitchman firm to exceed my expectations with their quick communication, extensive knowledge and skills to mediate any challenges that arise in a professional manner. I would personally refer any clients and/or friends/family needing their services in the fut
Extremely Knowledgeable, considerate, intelligent, and responsive. I've had the opportunity to work alongside Hitchan with a mutual client for years and it is clear to me that they take their duties very seriously. I'm impressed with their professionalism.
I have had the opportunity to close several real estate transactions, with the team at Hitchman Fiduciaries, over the years. They always have their clients best interest in mind and go above and beyond to make sure every transaction run smoothly, for all parties involved.
Annelise was recommended by my niece. Good office. Friendly staff. Got the job done quickly.
This company is not to be trusted at all. The lies and damage that they can do is unimaginable and unrepairable. Unless you have a lot of money to fight them back in court. Devastating our life's causing so much grief sadness hurt loss tears anxiety. A emotional roller coaster. All for the Hitchman Fiduciaries personal gain. Greed. No compassion or conscience. For what they do so patently. They are professional con artist . This business says Trust us we treat you like family. Is a cruel joke. With them la
I learned more about the process of getting a conservatorship in 30 minutes of talking to Bruce Hitchman than I did in several hours of online research. He is professional, honest, and kind. Highly recommend.
Very professional and reliable! We used them for estate administration and they were fantastic! They closed the estate quickly and knew what the next steps were at all times. Highly recommended!
They do amazing work in a time of need, timely and professional, would highly recommend.
Professional and knowledgeable fiduciary services.
Amazing Fiduciaries!
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.