*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.*
1902 Wright Pl 2nd Floor
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Great accountant for personal and business needs. More than just filing annual returns, Mark has been helpful structuring tax advantaged solutions for many years.
Mark Orlando and his team have been my go to CPA for over 15 years now. There?s no one else I trust to help me maximize my tax returns for our business and personal taxes. We get to hold onto our hard earned money vs having it fly out the door to taxes. You?ll see immediate ROI and value when you work with MW Orlando CPA.
Mark Orlando has provided us with professional Tax advice as well as prepared our Business and Personal Tax Returns for the past 17 years. Marks continuing education regarding Tax matters provides Peace-of-mind as we navigate the Tax landscape. We highly recommend Mark Orlando and his team. Ken and Nancy Noble EZ Pads Inc.
Mark and Vito have been helping us with our taxes for our business for 5 years. Mark is so knowledgeable and helped us with savings we would not have had otherwise. We also benefit a lot from the quarterly tax planning calls. I recommend Mark to anyone with a business!
We have been working with Mark Orlando for many years and have always been very happy with his personal communication and of course his tax preparation knowledge. We recommend him highly!
We have been working with Mark and his team for years and live the customer service and personal connection they provide. Mark is always straightforward and professional and very trusted.
I enjoy my sessions with Mark and team. His expertise in tax law adds a layer of confidence, as we navigate changing tax laws each year.
M.W Orlando is skilled at his profession and glad to have him doing my taxes for the last several years. He is a student of the tax law and never lets me down. I highly recommend Mark Orlando.
Mark and his team of professionals have prepared my family's taxes for years. We would use no one else. He is generous with his time, honest, and dedicated to his clients.
I am always very grateful for the quick and easy interaction with Mark and his staff. I am sure like most what I am not good at is a lot harder than everything else, Mark and his team make it a breeze for me to work with them even when I still dont get it right they are always kind and caring. Thank you all for your care with one of the hardest things in my life. Blessings Gavin
Mark and team have always been most helpful and receptive to extra help when needed. They have been most professional and friendly with the client at the heart of their tax support.
Mark Orlando has been my trusted accountant for over 10 years and I am very happy with his work. He really is helpful!
Excellent tax service and great staff. Extremely competent. I would highly recommend Mark and his company to anyone!
Mark and his team have been instrumental in keeping my business finances and taxes up to date and accurate.
Mark and Vito have taken very good care of me and my business since we started in 2015. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a professional CPA.
M.W. Orlando hands down is the BEST CPA and Tax Consultant I have ever utilized for my businesses.
Known Mark for decades. A bright boy who looks out for his clients. Keep it up Mark!
walked in and asked for an appointment to talk to a CPA, some bearded idiot proceeded to hand me a phone number saying "you have to call this number". I didn't walk into the office to get a phone number, I walked in to make an appointment, needless to say I walked out with the knowledge that this is not someone I would hire nor recommend
Thorough, exceeding well informed team.
Best business decision I?ve ever made ? they?ve been making things very simple very clear and on time. Thanks for your service.
Willing to go above and beyond for their customers. Great service!
PROFESSIONAL, DETAIL ORIENTED, EXPERIENCED, VERY HELPFUL
Responsive, patient , thorough and understanding.
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.