*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.*
231 G St #7
Davis, California 95616
Meaghan completed an amazing budget seminar for our group today and is a wellspring of personal and business budgeting information. I enjoyed my session with her thoroughly!
A friend of mine introduced me to Meaghan and Likes Accounting when I opened my small business 3 years ago. I was very new to all things "small business" related. Meaghan not only took the time to help me understand my finances, she also took the time to teach me how to manage my finances as well. Meaghan is very knowledgeable and has made that knowledge easily accessible to me whenever I need help or advice. She works hard to stay informed about the constant changes in tax laws and policies, and is wonderf
Has alot of potential to be a great company. It just doesn't have great follow through and takes alot longer to get everything set up than others got numbers almost dialed in with another company in apprx. 2-3weeks and was in with Likes Accounting for almost 5-6 months with little movement and no numbers to show with alot of money spent on my part. Would be best to have a system set up to track numbers more effectively until making the big switch to there platform since takes so long. I'm a business owner c
Meghan has been doing our family and small farm taxes for many years and has been so easy to work with! She's really good at answering all our questions, clarifying the dizzying array of tax information for us. I'm sure she's saved us lots of money over the years. She's turned tax time into a pleasant experience, as I always look forward to a visit with her!
My husband originally found Meaghan to help us learn how to do bookkeeping. Book she offers so much more then bookkeeping especially as a small business she has help us achieve financial freedom but continues to help our small business grow and to make sure we achieve profitability! There is no one like her, and the programs that she offers other wise I would have joined years ago!!!
We're so pleased to have LIKES as our business and personal accountant. They tailor their services to meet our exact needs, and educate us about changes in the law that could impact us. Meaghan treats clients with care and respect, and makes working with her easy. We couldn't recommend this firm more highly.
Likes accounting has been very responsive to some urgent needs mandated by a death in my family. Meaghan cares about the individual client and not just the details and numbers. I have always sensed her desire to make our lives better.
We have had the opportunity to work with Likes Accounting for the past 3 years. The support and advice we have gotten has been outstanding. It is a joy to work with Meaghan and her team.
I was introduced to Meaghan by referral from a friend. Meaghan has changed my life in how I work my business through accounting. I am so thankful for what she brings to the table. Using the Profit First way has changed my life.
Meaghan's great as she's helped me both with payroll and personal taxes. She's very knowledgeable and always wiling to work through issues that come up in a timely manner.
Meaghan is a wealth of knowledge, especially for small business owners! I had a great consultation to ensure I have the right structure in place as my business grows.
Meaghan and her team are amazing!!!! I went from bankruptcy to actually having a chance in business!!!! Could not be more thankful for what her and her team have done for me,
Meaghan and her team are amazing and have an unprecedented amount of knowledge in home service financials. Likes Accounting is highly recommended!
Likes Accounting provides very personalized service and are very responsive to questions. We are in our third year of tax preparation with them, so glad I stared before the pandemic and was ready for this year with files and links. Which recommend them.
Likes Accounting Company is amazing. Their team is friendly, helpful, and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend them for tax and bookkeeping services.
Meaghan and her staff are very responsive, helpful and thorough!
Really knowledgeable, professional and informative services - highly recommend!
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.