Murray Financial Services

Murray Financial Services

Reviews Summary

The reviews consistently highlight exceptional service, with a strong emphasis on trust, integrity, and personalized financial advice. Clients appreciate the advisor's long-term commitment, transparency, and genuine care for their financial well-being. The staff is praised for being knowledgeable, patient, and responsive, helping clients achieve their goals through tailored strategies. Many note steady investment growth and confidence in retirement planning. The overall sentiment reflects deep satisfaction and high recommendation.

About This Listing

CFO Services
Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
High-net-worth Individuals
Risk Management

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

CFO Services
Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
High-net-worth Individuals
Risk Management

Contact Information

Address

140 Yellowstone Dr #100

Chico, California 95973

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-4PM
Tuesday 9AM-4PM
Wednesday 9AM-4PM
Thursday 9AM-4PM
Friday 9AM-1PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.