*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.*
270 E Douglas Ave
El Cajon, California 92020
I can not recommend Laurie enough for your financial planning! She has helped me and my husband get ourselves setup for retirement and a solid understanding and plan for financial planning as our careers advanced! Her insight and knowledge has been invaluable! She cares and has the biggest heart that only wants the best for all her clients! If you want a financial planner who puts your needs first and will be cheering you on the whole way - Laurie is girl!!
Laurie is truly the best! She is always so helpful and very thorough in explanation. She has helped my husband and I plan and prepare for our families future. I would recommend her to anyone who is looking to gain knowledge and plan for their families future. It feels as if she is apart of our family because she knows and has helped practically our whole family! Thank you Laurie!
Laurie is amazing. She is super relatable, explains things so they are easy to explain, helps create a realistic budget and plan and is understanding. Her expertise is working with women. Definitely recommend.
Laurie is AMAZING at what she does! I appreciate Modern Woodmen as a company and what they stand for and Laurie not only exemplifies that same level of value and ethics, she exceeds it! Laurie is knowledgeable and explains things in plain English. She knows how to partner with her clients in creating a plan that is best for them. I have worked with financial planners and insurance agents for years and they were always about what they got out of the deal. Laurie cares about YOU and what's best for you. You
Laurie is so helpful, understanding, and knowledgeable! She helped guide me through my options, and explained everything to me in a patient, detailed, and friendly manner. Highly recommend using her services! Thank you!
I can't recommend Laurie and Modern Woodmen enough! Laurie?s passion for helping others truly stands out, and it's clear that her focus is on the benefit of her clients, not her own. In today?s world, that's a rarity. She works for an incredible organization with values that set them apart from others, and her knowledge is invaluable. If you're looking for someone who genuinely cares about your financial well-being, Laurie is the person!
A Trusted Financial Advisor and Friend I cannot speak highly enough of the outstanding service I've received from Laurie Beltran. From the moment I started working with her, it was clear that she genuinely cared about my financial well-being and future. She took the time to get to know me personally, to understand where I was financially, and to help me articulate my long-term goals. Her expertise in retirement planning and life insurance options has been invaluable. She provided clear, thoughtful recomme
I've worked with Laurie and Modern Woodmen of America for the last 9 years through a few transitions in life. After divorce, Laurie helped me to create financial independence, and now that my daughters are going to college, I'm super grateful to have guidance around funding their educations. If you're looking for someone who truly cares about your family and understands that financial stress be detrimental, you need to call Laurie.
I am so happy I was referred to Laurie. She truly is a genuine, kind person and really listens to your needs. She is patient and I can always count on her to answer my questions. I wouldn't recommend anyone else when it comes to taking care of your finances and assets.
There are a lot of choices for financial planners, but there aren't a lot of financial planners who truly have your best interests at heart. Laurie puts you, the client, first as she explains, in plain language, ways to reach your financial goals. Don't know what your goals are? Let Laurie help.
Laurie is very knowledgeable in what she does. She listened to my needs and made it happen. She is out doing things in our small country community and making a difference. She has also become a good friend and my go to ?chicken lady? ?? Thank you!!
Excellent work, attentive to detail. Laurie is so professional and amazing and what she does and works so hard for our community!
She is so helpful and such a beautiful person
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.