*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.*
6475 Camden Ave #100
San Jose, California 95120
I've been working with Pay 'n Time for 3+ years. The program itself is very user-friendly and customizable to our business and payroll needs. Pete and his staff are extremely helpful and always responsive. I can't imagine getting this level of customer service from a huge payroll processing company. I highly recommend Pay 'n Time!
We have been with Pay 'n Time for many years now and am grateful to have found a payroll service that is robust enough to handle our unique company specs as well as personal enough that I am able to get assistance in an incredibly timely fashion for pretty much any matter that has come up. We are very lucky to be one of their clients. Thank you Pete, Carole, and the entire team for making payroll and HR effortless and accessible for myself and our employees.
Hello Pete, I wanted to Thank You for connecting us with Laila Solyst. I have worked with a few payroll companies and payroll specialists over the years and Laila is the BEST hands down. She is extremely patient, helpful and definitely goes above and beyond to help me all the time! I am grateful we found a Great Payroll company and Payroll Specialist (Laila) that really is committed to providing superior customer service as this seems hard to find these days. Thank You!! Shawna
I have used Pay'nTime for more than 3 years and I am very happy! When I need something Laila is always on it, even when I didn't plan well, she saves the day with a prompt response! I couldn't recommend them more highly. Trust your payroll to Pay 'n Time!
Pete Bucter is very efficient, knowledgeable and will go the extra mile to process payroll to make sure that it's done promptly and correctly. Pratt & Associates (a law firm) has been a customer of Pay 'n Time for almost 10 years now. The fee is reasonable and we are very satisfied with the service.
Excellent full service Payroll processing and HR assistance at an outstanding price. They are always there to answer questions or solve any problems. A truly great organization to work with!
My payroll specialist, Laila, is so wonderful and helpful. She deserves 5 stars!!
I've been using Pay 'n Time payroll for over 15 years. They have excellent customer service...highly recommended!
Professional and timely! They always go the extra mile to help me out!
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.