*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.*
1250-I, Newell Ave #131
Walnut Creek, California 94596
Morello Accounting Group is highly professional, knowledgeable and responsive. As the owners of a small business which has grown and is increasingly more complicated, she has been invaluable in helping to make sure all our books are in order and in providing excellent guidance. We would highly recommend Diana Morello and her team.
I have worked with Diana Morello and her firm for years and look forward to continuing to refer clients. Their QB expertise and attention to detail make my job as a CPA easier... they help gather critical information for me to use when addressing my clients' tax compliance and planning needs. You need Diana and her firm on your team!
I am a S-Corp Legal Services Professional Corporation. Dianna Morello helped me establish the necessary bookkeeping systems on Quickbooks to support my business. She has enthusiastically tackled special accounting project. She provides accurate and timely end of the year accounting to my outside Tax CPA. Dianna has a wonderful cheerful personality. Her positive "can do" attitude inspires confidence in everything she does.
Morello Accounting Group has been an excellent resource for our family for many years. They carefully and diligently handled bookkeeping and accounting services for my parents when my mother was unable to do so any longer. Now that my sisters and I have inherited our parents' businesses, we have been so grateful for their guidance through the transition. I highly recommend them!
I might have just had bad luck. I found Diana difficult to work with, not very customer service oriented, and not very effective. I had to have another accountant fix many mistakes she made in our QuickBooks database. I see she has many great reviews on Google. Perhaps we were just not a good fit. Your experience might be different than mine.
I highly recommend Morello Accountng Group. Professional, efficient , and always available to help with my business concerns! I have been with Morello Accounting Group for many years and I enjoy working with them. They are ideal accountants for a small business owner like myself !
Nobody I trust more than Diana and her team. She is such an incredible resource and handles all the accounting and payroll for my corporation. I cannot recommend them enough!!!
Diana helped me navigate the world of accounting. She was always available for me and took the time to explain things to me if I didn't understand. I run a small business and it is great to know I have someone to call when I need help.
As a first time business owner, Diana & Regina really helped me navigate into the book-keeping world! They are great to work with --- they make Quick books seem easy!
We've been using Morello for many years, and can only say good things about their services. Quick and clear replies, so that we can focus on our business!
Awesome accounting firm, have recommended to many friends in the Bay Area and always provided outstanding service
Extremely professional, knowledgeable and responsive service!
Always helpful and responsive.
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.