*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.*
919 Story Rd #1200
San Jose, California 95122
Had a great experience with Ngoc Rachel, she was very thorough explaining my tax return and I didn't feel rushed. She is quick to respond to emails as well which I appreciate. I would recommend her to others without question.
I recently had the pleasure of working with Rachel and Tran for my tax return, and I couldn't be happier with the experience, especially since it was all done remotely. Despite the distance, their professionalism and eagerness to assist shone through from the very first call. Rachel and Tran are an exceptional team; their combined expertise and seamless collaboration made the entire tax preparation process feel effortless and smooth, even from many cities away. Their communication was concise, and incredib
Ngoc Rachel is one of the friendliest and best tax service I know. Very efficient with her response, she's always super helpful and willing to help you step by step. Been going there for about 3 plus years and every year it gets better. She's very experienced at what she does and makes the whole process stress free. Would definitely recommend to anyone who needs to file their taxes and other financial inquiries!
I used to had declaring tax services almost at the same place for many years, and every time i went there, the service fee was increased. It's ridiculous. This year I wanted to change to another one and I picked Investy Financial Service with my friend's recommendation. I met Rachel Ngoc Nguyen. She was very nice, friendly and knowledgeable. Any questions I asked, she explained very enormously. She is fast and professional. She is not only master about tax but also another fields such as finance, insurance,
I have been going to Investy for over 3 years now and wish I would have known about them sooner. Rachel is very knowledgeable, professional and a joy to work with. I highly recommend using her services for any tax and financial services you may need.
I strongly recommend Ngoc Rachel to my friends. Ngoc Rachel had answered all of my questions clearly regarding my 401K and Income Tax Return. She asked a reasonable price for my income tax return. She is nice, friendly, and knowledgeable.
Ngoc Rachel is very knowledgeable & friendly. Highly recommend her if you're looking for a tax preparer and a 401K manager.
I highly recommend Ngoc Rachel Nguyen to everyone who's looking for a Tax Preparer and 401K Adviser. Ngoc Rachel is professional, knowledgeable, responsive and with an impeccable personality.
Ngoc Rachel, she is very helpful person I would highly recommend. her if you're looking a 401K, Taxes and Retirement plan
Ngoc Rachel is very professional, knowledgeable and responsive. I did recommend my friends to her office.
Ngoc is awesome. She takes care of my taxes every year
Ngoc Rachel is very professional, knowledgeable and friendly. I would highly recommend.
A reliable place to do tax return and other services. Professional and responsibility.
Friendly, honest, helpful advice
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.