*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.*
90 E Morton Ave
Porterville, California 93257
I have been going to This place for years to get my taxes done and Kenneth is awesome. He goes over and beyond great customer service. He really knows what he's doing. I recommend everybody to get their taxes done with him and also Dan Is the man to get your paperwork done for the Assessors office? He helps me every year. He also goes over and beyond. I'm very grateful for Marain?s tax team. They are amazing.????
I've been using Marain's Tax Team for a few years now, and I'll definitely continue in the future. Kenny is knowledgeable, kind, and trustworthy. He goes above and beyond to ensure everything is handled smoothly. Highly recommend!
Pretty displeased. A simple tax return led to me having multiple canceled appointments and being ghosted for three weeks, after reaching out multiple times and leaving messages I finally got ahold of my preparer. Went in to pickup my forms with a few questions and was treated fairly rude and rushed out the door. Edit: Marian?s the tax return that was extremely simple and was done within a hour but your software couldn't accommodate? So finally it was done by hand as we had discussed in the beginning three
I do not recommend. This was the first year doing my taxes here. Because of their tax preparer?s mess up they had to file a amended return. Almost 5 months later here I am still wanting on my return. And all I'm told is it is the on the irs and the delays. Due to their mess up and me depending on my taxes to repair my car as it was slowly breaking down. I have now been walking to and from work for 5 weeks. I just get a basic it's your problem not ours.
I have been doing my taxes here for awhile now, and I never have a problem. Knowledgeable, friendly staff, from the receptionist to the tax preparers. Any questions you have, Kenneth has all the answers. I highly recommend. Thanks again, Kenny for all your help!
Customer of 4years: I love this company! Always willing to help with any questions I bring to them, Even outside of tax season. Very knowledgeable and quick. Highly recommended.
Honest, easy scheduling, quick turn around, good people, just overall a great company to get ur taxes done. Almost 10yrs with them from EZ forms to buisness forms they can do it.
Very good people always helpful getting me the most out of my taxes. Friendly and very good at their job always smiling. I highly recommend Marion's tax team.
Very nice people, very helpful,and very respectful. Love going here. Have been for over 17 years. They get you in/out and the they make sure you leave there with no questions un answerd and always a smile on your face.
Going on my 5 th year here, never had any hassles, check usually comes earlier than expected. Always good to know that here at marians they have the TAX AUDIT PROTECTION. ??
Love it ! Second year with them & I couldn't be more satisfied ! Highly recommend Marains tax team ! Great customer service! & very helpful
I have had my taxes done here for several years now. Friendly and helpful, usually return my calls promptly.
Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. I will definitely be coming back next tax year.
Kenny was very helpful and willing to listen!
Professional Staff & they get the job done! Highly recommend using their services!
Updated information and professional
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.