*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.*
6-B Liberty Ste 150
Aliso Viejo, California 92656
My husband and I have been using Laguna Tax Group for the last several years and have had an excellent experience every year. Doing taxes is no longer the headache it once was for us and it?s great value for the services we receive. Everything is easy to upload to the portal and their tax professionals do a great job explaining your options and answering any questions. We would strongly recommend Laguna Tax Group to anyone looking for help filing their taxes.
Laguna Tax Group makes doing taxes easy! They are excellent at their jobs and answer any and all questions for clarity, which many of us need. Thank you so much for getting my taxes done and submitted. I will definitely be using your services every year.
Valerie is thorough, kind, attentive to details, very prompt, knowledgeable, reliable, readily available when needed, and helpful. I am very satisfied with the service she offers. The portal and process is extremely user friendly. I?m very grateful to have her each tax season. I will absolutely be a returning customer!
Valerie Underwood at Laguna Tax Group is a great tax preparer. Efficient, professional and a fair price. Thank you Valerie!
Valerie Underwood at Laguna Tax Group has been instrumental in managing my tax preparation and financial planning. Her professional expertise and attention to detail ensured my taxes were handled accurately. Her guidance and insights have provided me with a clear direction for my financial future, making her an invaluable resource to myself and my family. I highly recommend Valerie team at Laguna Tax Group for anyone seeking expert tax services and comprehensive financial advice. With her support, I feel c
I cannot speak highly enough about the exceptional service I have received from Laguna Tax Group. From the very first interaction, they have been nothing short of professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly helpful in navigating the complex world of taxes. The team at Laguna Tax Group promptly assisted me with my tax needs, ensuring that every detail was meticulously taken care of. Their expertise and dedication were evident as they patiently explained the various aspects of my tax situation, providing me
Valerie was friendly, organized, communicative, , knowledgeable, accommodating, and prompt. We are glad to know that someone so qualified is only minutes away from our home. Thanks again.
Valerie is great, very thorough and has steered me in the right direction when necessary. I feel confident working with her and would highly recommend to others.
Tax preparation can be a stressful! Even though I filed quite late, was knowledgeable, efficient, and made the entire process stress-free. I appreciated her attention to detail and clear communication throughout the entire process. Highly recommend for anyone looking to skip the headache of filing for a tax return.
Valerie Underwood is by far the best tax person I have ever worked with! I don?t have enough good things to say. She was thorough and extremely professional.
Great service! Been going to Laguna Tax Group for 4 years and never had any complaints. ????
If you're facing IRS problems or need help with taxes, I highly recommend Valerie at Laguna Tax Group. She is a pleasure to work with!
Best tax prep out there!! Have used for years :-)
Efficient, precise and friendly!
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.