*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.*
3070 Saturn St #101
Brea, California 92821
My wife and I have been with Lighthouse for almost 30 years. We have our IRA's with them which we consider very important. We think they do a good job. We trust them. That is the first thing you need to feel if you are looking for a financial advisor.
We always appreciate Jayce checking in with us to review our investments. Hearing his thoughts on the economy help me to digest what I am reading online. We highly value Jayce and the Lighthouse team!
Chris is an excellent listener. He understands my expectations and explains what he feels the market is going to do in the near future.
Chris is very knowledgeable and so good about keeping in touch. There is so much misinformation online, so it's reassuring to get his take on what is happening and what he thinks will happen in future. The entire Lighthouse team is great and so helpful!
Thank you for the very informative meeting and picking up my taxes. Love the delicious lunch he brought me
Lighthouse Financial has been our trusted advisor for several years. We recently meet with Robert for 2024 forecast and other business and as always Charissa greeted us with warmth AND professionalism and Robert provided essential facts and detailed explanations in a relaxed and comfortable environment. We always come away with the satisfaction of being fully informed
Informative time spent catching up on the economic climate past, present and future. Reinforces confidence level and trust in management of my financial funds with Lighthouse.
Chris Soukup, CFP advisor has been a excellent representative at Lighthouse Financial. He has always shown a genuine interest in our investments and how we can better our portfolio. Also the crew at Lighthouse Financial is very versed to answer questions and/or provide answers.
Chris is always very thoughtful, professional, and pleasant to work with. We appreciate all that he has done for us and our family.
Very informative visit. No question was too insignificant to Chris. He went to great lengths to make sure they were answered to my satisfaction.
Thanks again to Jayce and the whole team who helped us have another successful year. Tax preparation was straight-forward and seamless. Appreciating 6 years of assistance, guidance and investing.
Chris is always knowledgeable about our portfolio and listens to our concerns. Always good to get a report of our earnings.
Enjoyed and found time interesting and worthwhile. Jayce does an excellent job.
Janel was so excellent very informative felt so good after I was. Big Up
Thank you so much, Sandra and all staff! God bless you all.
I have been with Lighthouse Financial for approximately 10 years. From the beginning, they listened and considered what level of investment I was comfortable with, whether conservative, moderate, aggressive or somewhere in-between. Of course, for me, that was dependent upon what phase of life/work I was at. I was near retirement at that time. I am in it for the long haul, so even with some ups and downs in the market, my long haul graph has shown a steady upward growth. Obviously, in my retirement now,
Everyone at Lighthouse Financial is a pleasure to work with. They were able to guide me through a bad decision on an investment. Following there advice saved a tons of money and provided us a great return Wendy and Moya are the best.
Had a great review at Lighthouse Financial. Good insight into what future plans we make to my portfolio.
After handling my investments for more than 20 years, I decided to entrust my portfolios to Lighthouse Financial Services thinking Mike Verity would be better able to manage my financial matters as the ecomomy became unpredictable and I was aging. It's been almost 5 years of a good working relationship with the entire staff at Lighthouse. Phone calls are promptly answered and requests taken care of without holding and being rerouted automatiacally. Everyone is cooperative, helpful to the nth degree, a
Great conversation. Very informative and helpful.
Discussed my portfolio with Rob McDaniel.
The way the economy has been, it?s nice to meet up with Chris and go over everything.
Very satisfied with the portfolio review and a good realistic projection of the market.
100 per cent perfect.
Robert went over my 2023 tax return. He discussed the payments I must make and my estimated taxes.
Solid quarterly review and personalized service.
Michael is the best I am extremely pleased with all of my dealings with him
I had a great experience as a customer with the lighthouse employees. They do everything that they can to help me. The customer service is great.
Great as always. Appreciate you soooo much! Carol
Thank you for your time and information.
Awesome program. I highly recommend
Marlene provided me with excellent help that I needed referring to the program. Additionally, she did a great effort in advising me about my process in the program. She was excellent and really helped, if I could, I would give her 10 stars.
(Translated by Google) Excellent service, kind people, polite and fluent in explaining the situation; especially a pleasant experience with Miss Mabel Torres, quality customer service, thank you for your help! (Original) Excelente servicio,personas amables,educadas y con fluidez al explicar la situaci?n;en especial una experiencia agradable con la se?orita Mabel Torres,una calidad de servicio al cliente,gracias por su ayuda!
(Translated by Google) Excellent service and they clarified all my concerns and the patience of the operator Alberto for every detail of this program to help with the high interests of my creditors, thank you (Original) Exelente servicio y me aclararon todas mis inquietudes y la pacienza del operador Alberto por cada detalle de este programa para ayudar con los altos intereses de mis acreedores, gracias
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.