*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.*
2336 Merced St
San Leandro, California 94577
The team at Prado Tax Services helped me fix my taxes previously prepared by another firm. They helped me get out of the tax nightmare I had found myself in, quickly without much effort on my part. They have an easy to use electronic document system, that made uploading files a snap. Marlon helped me personally and explained how everything worked. I look forward to using their services from now on and I recommend everyone switch over to get the same great service that I recieved.
Honestly best tax office ever!! Claudia and Marlon are very knowledge in their field and make everything very smooth! They are super kind and quick! The assistants are super helpful as well!
I have been using them for years. Best tax services I have ever had. Many of my friends are going to them now. Best decision I ever made.
First timers after our tax professional left the area. We were recommended by two of my spouse's colleagues. We dropped off our paperwork and made an appointment to return a week later. We met with Marlon who quickly made a recommendation that changed the trajectory of our filing for the better and something we were never informed of by our previous tax pro. Marlon was clear, concise, & efficient in his explanation. We look forward to continuing to do business with him in the future. Highly recommend.
I was referred by a friend to Prado Tax Service and have been very pleased. We now have worked with Marlon for years and he is the real deal. Unlike the national chains they listen and help with strategic decisons that help in met worth They are professional, courteous, timely, and multi-linqual. They also are MUCH more reasonable than H&R Block and care about their clients. Our previous accountant made us wait and wait to get taxes done or get ana appointment, but Marlin is busy but available and well
THIS IS WHO YOU WANT TO HANDLE YOUR TAXES. I've tried the rest, and am glad I finally found the best... Marlon is AWESOME, and has helped with my LLC and INC, with taxes, and other government forms, etc, covering all the needed bases to provide that peace of mind that allows me to focus on what I do, instead of the hoops the government makes us jump through. Five Stars, I would give 6 if it was an option
I enjoy bringing my business to the Prado team, whenever tax season comes around it's a very unstressful experience for me because I know that they will take care of me, I have been filing my taxes with Marlon for 15 years now and he always makes it a good experience. He always answers any questions that I have and gives me advice on other areas besides taxes. He is very knowledgeable and very professional. Whenever someone is looking for a place to file their taxes I make sure I send them to Prado tax serv
I call the office to get copy of my 2016 taxes to my email and he said I have to come in person to take the copies for security reasons, I drive to him about 30 minutes when I get there he ask me for ID and I give it to him and he ask me fee of $20 for copy that I paid when I filled my taxes with him last year what rip off very unprofessional. I end up leaving and going to the website of the RIS and register and get it for free.
Great place to do your taxes everyone is very Friendly and helpful They answer all of your questions and do a great job
I've been going for over a decade best service I live the valley an hour away I make the drive well worth it
Great customer service Marlon has been helping me for five years
Worst place there lazy they want you to do the work for them especially Marlon not profesional at all.
great service . I being a customer of them for over 13 year
(Translated by Google) Wonderful people, I'm here in Texas and from here I recommend them with her. Very good. (Original) Maravillosas personas estoy aqu? en Texas y desde aqu? los ah? con ella la recomiendo muy buena
(Translated by Google) Excellent service (Original) Excelente servicio
(Translated by Google) Super professional and honest 100% recommended. I've been doing my tax returns with them for 11 years. (Original) Super Profesionales y honestos Recomendados al 100% 11 a?os haciendo mis reportes de impuestos con ellos.
(Translated by Google) Great service,,, ...quick and professional......very good service, fast and professional....I recommend it (Original) Great service ,,, ...quick and profetional ...... muy buen servicio rapidos y profesionales....lo recomiendo
(Translated by Google) Good service (Original) Buen servicio
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.