*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.*
140 Yellowstone Dr #100
Chico, California 95973
I have worked with Kevin for many years, and from the onset, he has displayed the utmost in absolute integrity. He has proved to be a very knowledgeable financial advisor who takes his fiduciary responsibility very seriously and his first rate management has facilitated the steady growth of our investments year after year. I highly recommend Kevin and Murray Financial Services to anyone looking for a financial advisor.
Super friendly staff. Kevin provides great personal service and sound financial (and life) advice. Been a client of Kevin's for 25 years as I trust his honesty and integrity. Having a financial plan and the assistance he provides in getting things lined up for our family have been greatly appreciated. Not too many people in this business who really care about the "person" as opposed to the money - so, it's great to have a such a tremendous resource in our community.
Kevin Murray has been my financial advisor for 16 years. He's never too busy to take my phone call, no question goes unanswered, and no concern is left unaddressed. I'm very confident in his investment strategy and his genuine interest in the financial future of his clients, and Kelli at the front desk is always warm and helpful.
Kevin and the staff have been top notch from day one.. our family really needed some help to get our finances back on track and they were able to not only get us back on track but exceeded our expectations. They always were there when we had questons with answers and integrity. So always wanted to say thank you from our family.
My complementary phone appointment with Kevin Murray was extremely valuable for myself, family and my business; Pleasant Place care facility for Elders (RCFE). He was totally transparent in advising me of costs for his services and provided fantastic advice that I could utilize immediately. He helped me develop personal and professional goals that are reasonable and valuable. His advice will help me get to a point where his services will become mutually beneficial and I'm looking forward to doing business
Kevin and his staff have been nothing short of amazing. They were able to help us plan for retirement, run hundreds of scenarios, have the patient of a saint at explaining things and follow up with all our concerns promptly. They helped us develop numerous strategies and gave us confidence in how to get to retirement. Would recommend them to anyone.
I have had the opportunity to begin planning for my retirement with Kevin Murray. He has been incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in this process. I am looking forward to work with him more in the future.
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.