*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.*
429 Marsh St
San Luis Obispo, California 93401
I have been working with Rayn for the past 3 years. His knowledge and expertise of finance is astonishingly. He takes the time to educate my wife and I on our financial journey. I listened to Dave Ramsey for years and found Mustang Financial through Dave. I have recommended him to family and friends and will continue to do so. Scott & Cherie Newell
I interviewed several financial advisors and Ryan at Mustang Wealth was the one that I knew I could trust. I needed a good plan for my money and to diversify it better. So that it can grow and I could feel more at ease that it will be there for as long as I need it. Ryan has always been very patient with me, Always available for any question or concern I might have. He really cares about his clients and it shows. He now handles my families financial portfolio and we appreciate his knowledge and the fri
We were introduced to Ryan in 2016 by our former Financial planner Barbara Steveson, who was preparing to retire. We feel very blessed to be in such "good hands". Ryan and the staff at Mustang Private Wealth are wonderful people to work with. They are professional, yet very personable people to work with. Ryan understands our needs and goals. He provides guidance and listens to any concerns we have and provides us with excellent options to select when/where and what financial options can work best for u
Phenomenal! We've worked with Ryan for many years and trust him to help advise us on numerous issues. I personally started with Ryan prior to Mustang Private Wealth and have had his help for 20 years. His office staff is top notch and always attends to details quickly and efficiently. I've recommended him to friends and family and everyone has been beyond pleased with his assistance and service! You won't be sorry if you choose Ryan as your financial advisor!
Working with Ryan and everyone at Mustang Private Wealth is great. Ryan and team are very knowledgeable about the nuances of investment, the ever-changing financial markets and retirement planning. I believe they always have our best interests in mind, and they seek to develop and maintain long-term relationships with their customers on the Central Coast. I definitely recommend working with them if you're looking for any form of financial planning.
Ryan Olson is a wonderful financial adviser. I have been working with him for approximately 20 years. He has helped me to understand the basics of managing money making me confident in my budget and investing choices. It is really refreshing to work with a financial adviser who is truly interested in their client?s needs, circumstances and preferences. What really impresses me is the way he takes the time to get a feeling for my present and future needs. His depth of knowledge, lateral thinking and common
Ryan Olson and his skilled team can be trusted. Ryan has been a key part of my families lives for years. We look to Ryan for all of our financial decisions. You can always expect honest, concise and informed council from Mustang Wealth. My family and I sleep good at night knowing we are secure with Mr. Olson and Mustang wealth management.
My wife and I have been with Mustang Private Wealth for over 15 years. Ryan Olson and his staff have been outstanding in meeting our financial goals. They take the time to understand our objectives and work closely with us to achieve them. We would, without hesitation, recommend their services to anyone who is planning their financial future. Steve Scully
I've been working with Ryan for several years, through both great and turbulent markets, Ryan has regularly provided us with sage advice. Knowing our resources, immediate goals as well as our long term retirement goals, Ryan has helped give us a firm plan and confidence in the steps to achieve our goals. I'll continue to recommend Ryan to anyone looking to cultivate a great relationship with a financial advisor; and that includes family, friends and colleagues!
When it comes to handing personal finances, there's no one better than Mustang Private Wealth. Ryan and his staff carefully put together an investment strategy to meet my objectives. I have referred many family and friends and encourage anyone shopping CFP's to seek their services. Expertise, professionalism and trust are what you will find with Mustang Private Wealth.
Ryan has been very helpful throughout the years. If we have questions he answers them quickly and with a thorough explanation. He is very thoughtful when either one of us had a health issue. He's not a phony ,he's down to earth . We recommend him to anyone who's looking for an honest financial advisor .
My husband and I have worked with Ryan Olson at Mustang Private Wealth for several years. Not only is he delightful and easy to talk to, but additionally he has helped us make some very prudent decisions. We feel so fortunate to be in such caring capable hands.
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.