*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.*
4250 Executive Square Ste 400
La Jolla, California 92037
David and Nick have provided wonderful service. After my divorce I was lost and confused as to how to proceed with my financial matters as my husband had always handled everything. I interviewed 3 different firms and felt most comfortable with David and Nick as they asked me my goals and thoroughly explained how my money would be invested. They are good to check in and we have adjusted my investments as situations evolve. Very happy so far with their company.
David Miller and Brian Davis have been exceptional to work with as we enhance our financial portfolio! They have been patient in educating us about things big and small and have taken so much time to really get to know us including our future personal goals and how our portfolio can help us achieve those. They offer a broad spectrum of options for minimal or larger risks and will help you weigh all of the options. Their team has made paperwork and contracts seamless with digital signing. We could not have a
Best experience with David Miller and his team. We have two little kids and were desperate for some financial planning and a new life insurance policy. David takes extra care to listen carefully to what's important to our family and build out a plan that makes sense. 5 stars. Highly recommend!
I've worked with David Miller for many, many years and he's been nothing but kind, professional, thoughtful and diligent. We've been working together so long that we've been able to see major developments in each other's lives and have built a friendship through it. David never fails to call on your birthday, a special occasion or just check in when the time is right - he truly cares...and not only about your portfolio, but about you as a person! I would recommend David to anyone and everyone considering
We were lucky to be referred to OCF by a trusted advisor who now works for the group. We had been considering finding a financial advisor, and feel very fortunate with our experiences thus far. They have been very thorough to understand our goals and current circumstances, with solid recommendations on how to optimize our path toward a secure financial future. The entire group has been cordial and goes the extra mile to explain their expertise and provide helpful recommendations. We find them trustworthy an
David was fantastic to work with! He helped me set up a life insurance policy for infinite banking and was incredibly knowledgeable throughout the entire process. My husband and I do all our own investing as we don't like paying advisor fees so I'm usually pretty wary of salespeople, but David was the opposite?genuine, transparent, and really focused on what worked best for me with low fees. Highly recommend!
David Miller and Brian Davis have been wonderful advisors. So paitane and helpful. Extremely knowledgeable about all things money related. Their long term planning is brilliant and very individually tailored to help their specific clients. I was so thankful for the time they took explaining everything to me. Lots to digest when it comes to retirement planning and life goals. Thank you so much to you and your team. Katie has been so kind, answering all my questions and helping me with the many details
Ocean View Financial contacted me on LinkedIn and I do have to say I was initially skeptical but I allowed them to pitch their financial views over a significant amount of time and how they would invest some of my retirement funds. And I am glad I did. They exhibited great patience and endurance and answered all my questions to my satisfaction. Having only about 7 months' returns it is still probably a little premature but I have had great financial returns so far. I would recommend them as conscientiou
I began using David's services when I started my business over a decade ago. Since that time, David has remained responsive and helpful, always checking in to see if my needs have changed or when new products/opportunities arise. I appreciate his long-term, pragmatic approach to my famil's financial planning.
Nothing but great things to say about David and his team. Anytime I've had an idea (both good and bad) they've been there to work through the particulars and to give sage advice and guidance. Would highly recommend them if you're looking to go down the path of a financial advisor.
I have been doing business with David and his financial team for nearly 20 years now. David has always been honest, trustworthy and thorough. I highly recommend their financial planning and investments services.
I worked with Katie to get a 2m policy on my business partner. She was an absolute pleasure to work with. Patient and kind. Highly recommended.
I can't speak highly enough of David, he really knows what he is doing. I especially appreciated the fact that through his insightful questions he made me take a good look at not only my finances but my life and how I intend to live it. Life comes at you hard sometimes, and when it does you need someone like David
David Miller and his team are really smart and he listens well so they crafted smart plans that are specific to my business. I don't look at him as a cost center, rather as a person who has helped me retain bottom line dollars that otherwise would have gone to taxes.
I have been very pleased with the staff and service at Ocean View since I retired 1 1/2 years ago.. Great advice and info. I feel they really look out for me and my financial interests.
Look no further if you are seeking professional advice and management of your finances. This company has it all, financial expertise, top notch advisers and staff who are well informed and knowledgeable in their field. I give Ocean View Financial my highest recommendation.
Definitely appreciate OVF. Always feel well taken care of by the team!
I know David James Miller for 10 years and he is professional, honest and reliable financial advisor and I recommend him to any person who needs help
The resources of a large organization, but the attention of a small, dedicated staff!
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.