*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.*
26800 Aliso Viejo Pkwy #200
Aliso Viejo, California 92656
It is absolutely incredible how incompetent these people are. I called to make a partial payment effective thay day and schedule another partial payment for the end of the month and the first payment never happened, instead, JMJ charged me the payment I scheduled for over 2 weeks out. I called to have this payment reversed as it caused me to go overdraft. The person I talked to was no help and delayed the process more. The representative could see I had the payment scheduled the payment for 9/30 but said th
Matt Bradbury and the team at JMJ Financial are FANTASTIC. They were able to do the unimaginable and get my loan approved and funded in 2 weeks when another lender left me hanging on a Jumbo loan for a home purchase. I had locked in a rate with another large wholesale lender. Two weeks into a 30 day escrow, the other lender pulled a bait and switch, increasing my loan cost by $14,000 on what was supposed to be "0" points locked rate. Matt and JMJ stepped in and they were professional, honest, thorough,
My husband and I used JMJ when we bought our first house. Being first time home buyers, the process was overwhelming and hard to navigate. Scott Pilon walked us through every step, answered our phone calls after hours, and made sure to accommodate us to the very end. We truly appreciate the hard-working and dedicated staff at JMJ.
Jason Thibodeau and team are professionals. They worked really hard to close our escrows in 30 days during the peak of the market with timely follow-up and responses to our inquiry. Really nice people to work with and the best experience was excellent from the start to the end.
First off if you are reading this you are in the right place to make your dreams come true. My Husband and I went through JMJ financial and worked with Carlos Becerra and Getsa Escobedo. Carlos took on our file at the last minute due to another financial company dropping the ball. When I say they worked hard for us that is an under statement. They worked weekdays, weekends and after hours. I appreciate all that they did to make this purchase be a smooth and seamless one. I will recommend them to everyone I
JMJ originally started a loan and was dealing with my wife diresctly behind my back. This was the Costa Mesa/JMJ office trying to close a deal with Vincent Gagliano, Tony Cuda and their manager Ryan G! I have never met or spoken to either of these guys in my life. All agents at the Costa Mesa office only dealt with my wife. She wasn't even on the loan! JMJ didnt attempt to call me one time! I was furious and advised JMJ that I would be going to the BBB after JMJ contacted my wifes employer to complain abou
We were extremely pleased with the professionalism and customer service while working with Jason Thibodeau and Ryan Robertson at JMJ. They were sharp, efficient, and fast when handling our complex loan arrangements to purchase vacation property in Southern California.
They have Best Down payment assistance program!! Especially for employed!!!! Me.Amy and Mr.Matthew has a lot of knowledge about the program and they have a excellent customer care !!!!! Strongly recommend!!!! Thank you Ms.Amy and Mr.Matthew ! Because of you guys I've got new home !!!!! God bless you all !
These guys are fantastic and I would highly recommend Alex and Matt to anyone I know. They're true professionals who always look out for their customer's best interest.
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.