*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.*
228 W Carrillo St suite d
Santa Barbara, California 93101
Bradley and his team are great! We used them for ourselves and for my Mom's trust, and they were very helpful, easy to work with, fairly priced, and really good people. They were always available and just made the entire process for both so easy. I highly recommend them for any law needs!
Mr. Hollister was highly recommended to me by a mutual connection for his knowledge in tax and estate law and his integrity as an individual and professional. He has demonstrated both in our brief interactions and I look forward to a long working relationship with him. I recommend him for his services and understand why all of his reviews are so positive.
I'm always hesitant to call an attorney because it is so expensive to get anything done. It was different with Hollister Law. At the initial consultation, Bradley had already reviewed my trust and will documents and was prepared with a plan for me. It was simple and professional and he didn't try to add on all sorts of expensive extras. He was clearly an expert and his fee to complete the assignment was very reasonable. I'm super happy. Also, his assistant Brigid was excellent at moving everything along.
Bradley Hollister stepped into my estate planning process and was extremely helpful in sorting out numerous questions I had regarding my Qualified Personal Resident Trusts. He has an up to date understanding of our tax laws and how to structure estate planning for your family in the most advantageous way. I am grateful for his willingness and ability to work with my other legal and accounting professionals in this complex process.
We had an excellent experience setting up a Trust for our family. They went above and beyond on several requests. I would recomment the Hollister Law Office for setting up trusts and wills.
I have had an excellent experience working with Bradley Hollister. He is very knowledgeable, hard working and dependable. He has helped me through the stressful process of starting a new business. He responds to questions in a professional and prompt manner. I strongly recommend him to anyone searching for a great attorney.
I appreciated that Bradley listened to us and what our needs were with my mother and I didn't feel like he was just filling in the blanks on a boiler plate trust. Very reassuring.
I have worked with Bradley Hollister extensively on both business and personal matters. He is extremely efficient and very knowledgeable. It has been a pleasure working with him as he is totally trustworthy and reliable. I highly recommend him
Highly recommend Bradley for all of your estate planning needs. Very patient and thoughtful approach that I appreciated. He even helped me with some non estate counseling last year and recommended other highly qualified attorneys for my various needs.
Bradley (and his office staff) are both professional & conscientious as well as a genuine pleasure to work with. In particular he has helped my wife and I with estate planning, and various small business issues ranging from IP/copyright to corporate compliance.
I appreciated Bradley Hollister in our first meeting. His protocol was impeccable: courteous and kind and he was generous in sharing his professional knowledge.
The logistics of my estate planning were ?boiler plate?, however, I was challenged to make several emotionally sensitive changes. Bradley?s impartial advise was invaluable.
Mr Hollister was very helpful and generous with his time and expertise when I consulted with him about the effects of the newly-enacted Proposition 19 on my estate planning.
A deep understanding of the laws in California, and a hands- on approach, look to Bradley Hollister to help with all of your legal needs, you will not be disappointed!
Simply the best most articulated local in SB! Getting ready to use him again!
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.