*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.*
15002 Castroville Blvd
Castroville, California 95012
Rich seems to be a Good Guy and he is very easy to communicate with he does a very fair job of keeping with in the rules.I found him a couple of years ago and I will continue to use him. I do wish he could help me with my small non profit but he said I need to find some one else for that but he still gets my 5 star approval!!
We have always prepared our own tax returns, but we ran into a complication this year and decided to go to a professional. I'm so glad we did. Richard Ponce prepared our returns very fast, saved us money and is already advising us on future tax strategies. His prices were so reasonable, we felt guilty and we brought him some produce as well as a check. We don't anticipate agonizing over taxes again and we will be back to see Rich next year. We highly recommend Ponce Tax Prep. Mark Trabing, Royal Oaks
Richard did a fantastic job taking care of our taxes last year. I used to do them myself, but each year it gets more complicated. It was a pleasure to gather up all documents and "throw them over" to Ponce Tax Prep to do all the hard work. Everything was handled very professionally, quickly, and affordable. 110% recommended!
My husband and I have had a small business since 2011. We began using Ponce Tax Prep after our first year of business and have not looked back since. Working with Richard has been wonderful! Taxes are the last thing my husband wants to discuss and yet Rich has made it painless to file each year. He is very knowledgeable about taxes, educating himself on any new tax laws each tax season. He provides us with easy to follow forms to complete prior to seeing him and with that information, has our taxes don
I am very happy with the preparation of my tax returns by Mr. Ponce. He understood what was involved with my return, and was thorough in preparing my return.
I was very happy and comfortable with the process, and Ponce Tax Prep.
What an awesome great guy. Thanks so much for your advise. I really appreciate it.
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.