*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 Diamond Creek Pl Suite 175
Roseville, California 95747
Vanneman Financial Group has been managing my finances for a very long time. Garrett is extremely professional, hard working, and genuinely kind. Anytime I frantically have needed anything from Garrett, he has always been very quick to respond, and treat my emergency as his emergency. I have recommended his services to my own family members, and they have been pleased as well.
My wife and I have been working with Garrett for a few years now. We trust and value his guidance when it comes to investing. He is responsive, a problem solver and speaks in easy-to-understand terms which we appreciate. We would recommend Garrett to anyone looking for help with their retirement or overall financial goals.
Garrett is extremely knowledgeable and personable. He is always available to answer any of our questions or concerns about our retirement plans. I know he has our best interests, we are truly grateful for that! We highly recommend using Garrett and Nicole for your financial planning.
I've been fortunate to have the Vanneman Financial Group handle my personal financial planning, all of my disability and life insurance needs and they also manage my office's 401(k). Garrett is professional, very responsive and incredibly knowledgeable. He's also a CFP, Certified Financial Planner so I know he knows what he's talking about. If you're looking for a financial planner definitely give the Vanneman Financial Group a call.
Vanneman Financial Group provides amazing customer service, fast response times and genuinely cares about their clients. They were always willing to answer our many questions and their advice made us feel confident in the decisions we made. We couldn?t recommend them enough!
I?ve been working with Garrett since 2013 and couldn?t be happier with the services. He is responsive, insightful, and always ahead of market trends. Win win. Highly recommend.
Top notch husband and wife team, just one call or text away. Always open with communication and amazing work ethic. So happy I chose them to take care of my life insurance needs. Without hesitation will refer everyone I know to them.
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.