*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.*
308 SW 13th St
Chehalis, Washington 98532
Had the please of meeting Otto and some of his staff today while they came in for an audit at my work! They were extremely friendly and professional. Otto made sure to explain everything with such ease! It was a wonderful experience! Highly recommend
The staff was very friendly and welcoming. It was staff member Megan's birthday and they let me join in on singing Happy Birthday. That set the whole tone of my appointment. Which carried on into my meeting with Otto, a very competent and also friendly person. He carefully and throughly explain a question I had. Then he continued on with my Tax Preparation, which was the reason for my appointment. I am excited to have discovered this wonderful company. I look forward to many years working with Mountain Vi
I went in for my '15 and 16' taxes. Just last year I got a letter from the IRS saying that I owed money for those two years... I should have paid, not got back almost $4K. I called and asked and took in the letters to Mt, View. Later, was handed a form to fill out and told to send a check to the IRS so they can auto deduct out of my checking account. I received no explanation as to what happened and my phone calls were never returned. I had to use them in '17... I felt I couldn't do it myself. I paid over $
We just used this place to get caught up on our taxes. We had some communication issues at first but everyone in the office from the receptionist, Toby the cpa and the ceo of the company made it right and apologized. In my eyes that?s a huge thing. They did everything they could to make sure our taxes were done correctly with the best plan for our business as a whole/ in the future. We love supporting local businesses as we ourselves are a local business. The integrity of this company and its employees spea
Toby and the whole MT View team are patient and helpful and their fees are very reasonable - especially considering how much trouble we put them through! Highly recommend!
My accountant Wendy was very helpful. Wendy's knowledge of tax law is amazing. Wendy is very friendly, professional, and always keeps you updated. The front office staff are sincere and friendly. Messages are always promptly returned. I highly recommend this business.
This is our second year working with Wendy at Mountain View and we would go nowhere else. The attention to detail is impressive and they have great communication with their customers. Definitely would recommend them to anyone looking for tax services!
I?ve been going to Lewis County Tax since 2014, now they it is renamed Mt.View taxes and Accounting. Brad has always done my taxes, this year he couldn?t do my taxes due to being booked. So Joanna did it, this was done on February 13th, I waited a whole 2 months and received nothing in the mail. I called their office at least 5 times within a 4 day period, leaving messages due to Joanna always being in a ?meeting? before getting a call back. Finally, Joanna told me that she did not know what happened to my
awful experience ! They have always been helpful in the past. I'm so upset I cannot stop crying... One of The partners told me I'm not a good fit for them !!!!...& I had to file an extension which I have never done in my life!!! . They blamed me when this has taken repeated calls from myself .. and non received emails from them they have had my taxes for more than a month ! I was spoken down to like I wasn't going to pay them for there service!!! Well, never have I not paid a bill! I just received the sign
We?ve been clients since they first opened in Lewis County. We have always received our completed taxes in a timely manner and done accurately while being treated in a friendly, respectful manner!
I am very satisfied with the work this firm has done for my two businesses and my personal finances. Otto Rabe is knowledgeable, prompt with needed answers, and saved us money. I appreciate having this business relationship. I would recommend him to anyone.
These CPA's have been amazing to work with. I generally work with Wendy S. Mecham, CPA. She's helped us set up a 501c3 non profit, set up an LLC, and of course do all the taxes for all my businesses. Amazing customer service and dedication. Look forward to our continually great working relationship.
I was a new Buissnes and went to them for help, brad the owner talked me into spending Money on incorporating so I did. As time went on I had to call five times to have them change my address and to quit billing me for things I did not ask for anyways I left after a couple years and went to some one else. Come to find out they did my taxes wrong which cost me money to fix and when he as Brad incorporated me he didn?t tell me that it?s like having a new Buissnes and everything else would half to change like
I would highly recommend Otto and his staff! He has completed our taxes for three consecutive years, both personal and business. He gives clear answers and advise. Well worth every penny!
I had them do my taxes after the 3rd year they screwed them up Brad was always on vacation or out of the office after 3 months of trying to get my taxes I finally had to hire a advocate. I finally got my taxes back in Sept.
They have been doing my taxes ever since I've needed taxes. Since I'm a college student, my returns are really simple but they always find me a way to get a good refund.
Quick, efficient and professional. They even walked me through steps I needed o complete online account with IRS, very grateful for the help.
Great customer service. They get your taxes filed fast and filed right. Best place in town!
As a small business, this agency allows payroll, online Quickbooks, support and allows me 100% mobility, which my business requires.
This group did a fantastic job for our family and business tax needs!! Highly recommend!
The staff is great. Friendly even when they are in the middle of tax season.
Brad is a good Man with even greater intentions!!!
Always a pleasure to work with and fast!
Quick and painless. Thanks, Brad!
Very good at detecting errors!
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.