*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.*
410 W Amerige Ave
Fullerton, California 92832
I've used 1040 Blues Inc since I started with them in the year 2000. Franc is both professional and very personable. He's incredibly knowledgeable and has always done a fabulous job at working with my complex tax circumstances, up to and including the situations wherein I have expatriated - he's just as capable at working my issues remotely and getting my taxes done as he is in person. Franc's staff are friendly and helpful, and always help me out in the few situations when he's been too busy due to the pea
1040 Blues has been processing my taxes for over 10 years and they are extremely efficient and trustworthy. Not only is Franc a fantastic accountant, but he is personable and friendly and has become a great friend over the years. Franc and his staff are always just an email or call away for any business transactions that I have questions about, and wether I am traveling abroad or in their office, my taxes are handled immediately and professionally.
We have been using 1040 Blues, Inc. for our Corporation and personal tax needs for about 22 years. I could not be happier with the professionalism, knowledge and great service we have received from Franc and Kim. They have always been just a phone call away to answer any and all my questions. I highly recommend Franc and 1040 Blues, Inc.
Franc has been our tax account for over 30 years. He handles both business and personal taxes and has been a trusted professional through all those years. This year alone he came to us to file for the employee tax credits which I would not have done because I thought it to complicated. His efforts gave us back thousands in payroll credits that have been really helpful this year.
I can't say enough about 1040 Blues! It's not your father's tax guy, trust me. The office is cool and calm with artwork of the Rolling Stones on the walls and Tom Waits wafting from the speakers. Franc is bright and relaxed and has a way of making all of your tax anxiety disappear. I travel an hour to get to his office and would travel 5. No kidding.
We have worked with 1040 Blues for at least 15 years- Franc and the whole staff has been really great , very helpful when ever we need them-they take great care of our payroll and accounting needs - Plus they are all a very nice and an easy to work with group of people, very accommodating!! We Highly recommend 1040 Blues
He has been our accountant since 1994. We moved to Oregon in 1995 and still use 1040 Blues. Our children are grown and also use him! He is always up to date on all tax laws and pays attention to the needs of his clients. I would highly recommend this service to anyone who has to do more than a 1040EZ!
I have worked with Franc and his very capable team since 1998 and have been very impressed with their efficiency and courteousness. Highly recommend 1040 Blues for their knowledge and for all your accounting work.
Be very careful dealing with this company for tax or financial matters. I have used this company extensively and they did my taxes for a very long time before completely and utterly falling apart. He moves offices every year to save money and frankly cannot be trusted. He is not a CPA and has made numerous mistakes through the years, which I always tolerated out of history, until things finally got out of hand. I would strongly discourage anyone from trusting this company to do their taxes correctly. Not tr
I have used 1040 Blues for years. I find them very helpful and professional, both personally and business wise. And I have and will continue to refer them to others.
Fabulous. Lots of great professional guidance with Frank doing the taxes you can never go wrong. Always does a stand up job.
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.