*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.*
41951 Remington Ave STE 270
Temecula, California 92590
Suzanne is great! She really knows her stuff. My husband and I went to her two years ago after we incorporated our small business. Suzanne took the time to meet with us and explain everything we needed to know about being incorporated pertaining to our taxes. She helped me set up bookkeeping systems and talked to us about retirement accounts. Her rates are very reasonable, especially for the time and effort she puts into doing your taxes. I would recommend her to anyone.
Suzanne is amazing in the quality of service that she provides to my wife and I. She has been doing our personal and business taxes for the past 4 years and she never stops amazing me with her wealth of tax knowledge that she provides us when this stressful season of taxes comes around. Suzanne just puts us at ease because she is such a professional and expert at what she does. I highly recommend Temecula Valley Taxes to everyone.
I would recommend Suzanne to anyone. She has been doing my taxes for the last 15 years. What?s nice is when I go to make a big purchase I can call her to see what kind of an impact it will have on me at no charge. She is one of those people who really cares. Thanks Suzanne!
Ken Lonie and his associates have been my business and personal accountants since 1999. They have done an excellent job and have saved me money every tax season. I recommend them highly, especially if you own a complex business and require meticulous work.
They are fraud. Susan filed my taxes 2021 made a mistake and had me owe the IRS $15000 instead of the IRS paying me. Now in 2022 I found out I cant file electronic taxes because my identity is stollen, I have never had any issues with Taxes till I went to Temecula Valley Taxes now I have so many issues. Stay away
A really nice, welcoming professional office. All of the ladies are friendly, competent, reassuring and helpful! I felt a whole lot better when I left then when I first walked in - and that was just the consult! Also, a Business Card and pen I can ACTUALLY read the Phone Number!
Suzanne is outstanding! She does my personal and business taxes and does my payroll as well. I would definitely recommend her for all those services.
Lonie & Hornback, Inc. prepared and submitted my tax returns (both state and federal) for fiscal year 2014 on March 16, 2015. After submission on the tax returns there was a balance owed of $1,415 for the federal return and $1,076 for the state return. On or around January 5, 2017, I received a certified letter from the IRS stating that the IRS was conducting an audit on my FY14 taxes, which resulted in an increase of $3,677.32 (including penalties and interest) for under paid taxes. The IRS was disallowing
The best tax firm in Southern California. Accountants are knowledgeable and informative. Lonie and Hornback are a great asset to my business.
I was in a situation where multiple agencies were taking money out of my bank due to bad advice. Came here to get everything finance related cleaned up. Trustworthy as can be. Thank you!
Everyone at Lonie and Hornback (Cheryl is my favorite!) are so helpful and make my life easier! They are always available for me with any questions I may have.
The staff is amazing here. Everyone is very knowledgeable and professional. Excellent service. Thank you!
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.