*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.*
712 5th St Suite A
Davis, California 95616
Paul is so helpful with managing my parent?s trust and retirement accounts. I couldn't manage it financially without his help. He makes it so easy to understand the complexities of the financial decisions I have to make for my parents as I navigate the stage of life they're in. I highly recommend him.
I didn't know much about life insurance since it wasn't something that my parents taught us. When I got a stable job, my uncles encouraged me and I reached out to Thomas May. He was very knowledgeable, friendly, and responsive. I ended up telling all my siblings to go to him, so he's basically looking out for me and my siblings. His experience and help made a big difference. Eventually, I'll need to have a chat with Thomas on retirement, but that's in the future. Overall, I highly recommended.
Been working with Paul for some time and additionally now with Thomas, we had a great meeting today. I left with a clear understanding of our financial portfolio and a stronger plan for our future which gives us great confidence. In addition, we have seen gains in our portfolio in a short span of time which is a reassuring indicator. Our meetings are consultative and personal with all decisions made after full discussion and clear explanation.
Impact Financial Advisors were very helpful. As someone new to understanding IRA, Paul Romo and his team explained my options thoroughly and was friendly and helpful throughout the whole process. They provide excellent service with a personal touch. They are prompt, knowledgeable, responsive to your calls and emails. Appreciate that they are also concerned for my grown children in building their future. Thank you Impact Financial for taking such great care of me and my family. I highly recommend their servi
These guys are fantastic! Paul Romo has been my advisor for over 15 years and has helped me through to success in many situations over the course of my career. Thomas May is absolutely the expert you need to consult with for Long Term Care policies. Both are highly recommended!
Impact Financial Advisors has been nothing but great to us. My wife and I have known we need some help/ guidance with our retirement plan full finical stability as well as create a working path for generation wealth. What works for everyone is different and everyone's plan is very unique to them and their situation. We have been and will continue to work with Thomas, he is very detailed and communitive. He has and continues to be a great asset for us, and our ever changing road map of life. Have recommended
Thomas May was recommended to me by a coworker and he was extremely helpful at teaching me about and helping me find disability and life insurance. He was quick to respond to my questions and was great at keeping me updated and on track throughout the process. I would highly recommend!
I worked with Thomas May and it was an absolute pleasure dealing with someone so professional. Very knowledgeable, friendly, precise in his communication, responsive and helpful without ever being insistent. His experience and help made a big difference. Highly recommended.
Several of my estate planning clients both in the Sacramento Valley and San Francisco Bay Area work with Paul Romo at Impact Financial Advisors and have been extremely happy with Paul's financial expertise, professional manner and responsiveness to clients' needs.
Paul and I have done business with mutual clients in the past. In my line there are countless interactions with professionals from all over the country. I don't believe I have ever seen the level of personal attention like I did with Paul. Would recommend him to family, Yes I like my family Guy
Paul is competent, earnest and a great listener. It was a pleasure working with him.
First they spam call me, then when I hang up they spam me rude text message.
Communicative & effective service ?
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.