*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.*
180 Promenade Cir Suite 300
Sacramento, California 95834
Stellar Google Review for Howard Knudsen, CPA This is my third year doing taxes with Howard Knudsen, and I can confidently say?he is hands down the best in the business. Howard is a true professional who knows exactly what he's doing. I don't trust my taxes with anyone else. This man goes above and beyond to make sure everything is done right and on time. Every year, it's always a smooth, stress-free, and genuinely pleasant experience working with him. Howard is knowledgeable, efficient, responsive, and i
I highly recommend Howard Knudsen, CPA. From the moment we started working together, it was clear Howard possessed a deep understanding of tax law, which he leveraged to save me thousands of dollars on my taxes. What stood out to me most, however, was his honesty and commitment to transparency. It's a breath of fresh air to find a professional who not only has an exceptional grasp of their area of expertise but also genuinely cares for their clients' financial health. Howard is a remarkable CPA who consiste
Howard is a great certified public accountant. From the first day I met Howard he made me feel comfortable with the situation I found myself in. He assured me that everything was going to be okay and that he would do his best to make sure paperwork was filed before the deadline. He also went above and beyond by personally handing over my tax returns to the FTB, one of the perks of working with Howard. I am very satisfied with his service and recommend him to anybody who might have received an unwanted lette
Howard did an excellent job with my Taxes and saved me thousands. I have a rather complex tax situation with side gig income, RSU income, dividend income, multiple W2s, multiple 1099s but Howard handled it with ease. I'll be using him next year!
Howard is kind, professional, knowledgeable and fast. You cannot find someone better to do your taxes. Absolute endorsement.
Howard was a pleasure to work with. Was available for phone calls, answered questions in coherent and concise manner and genually cared about my experience!
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.