*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.*
5260 N Palm Ave Suite 320
Fresno, California 93704
I've been doing business with Fresno Financial Advisors (now Mason Street Wealth Management!) on my mother?s behalf for almost two and a half years. With a relatively conservative investment strategy her account has already grown by over 25%! My wife and I attended a client appreciation event earlier this week that further affirmed our belief that entrusting mom?s retirement income to Sean and his team was the best decision we could have ever made. Amongst a crowd of over 200 people, when I finally spoke w
We had an exceptional experience working with Sean Mason and his office staff! From the start, he was incredibly knowledgeable, guiding us through the complexities of managing our finances and helping us set up college savings accounts for our children. He explained everything in a straightforward, easy-to-understand way while still providing all the information we needed to make informed decisions. What really stood out was his honesty and transparency?there were no surprises, just clear advice tailored t
Fresno Financial Advisors has been managing my retirement accounts/strategies for over 7 years. Sean Mason has always been open and honest about options and explains the pros and cons with patience. The level of trust continues to grow as we work together. Sean returns my phone calls quickly and makes sure we sit down and discuss my portfolio on an annual basis, making sure adjustments are taken care of regularly. I have sent my own children to him for advice and know they will get the same treatment as I d
Went to Fresno State to a retirement planning class hosted by Sean Mason of Fresno Financial Advisors. During his presentation he made two errors, one involving Medicare enrollment and the other regarding Mortgage and Escrow account payments. Went to two appointments for personal retirement plan, thereafter. He was very friendly and engaging. In the final meeting when I decided not commit to his company, he called me a liar. He specifically used the word ?liar? and his demeanor changed. This man is not suit
Very knowledgeable and helpful! My husband and I appreciated his advice and excellent stewardship over our accounts. Sean?s very easy to talk to and made us feel like we were part of the family!
Sean and his staff are honest, trustworthy, and knowledgeable. They treat us like family and make good, profitable investments with our money.
The staff has been very kind and genuinely concerned for us and our financial needs. The communication is above and beyond.
They gave me great financial advice!
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.