*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.*
2643 Appian Way
Pinole, California 94564
We can't thank Jayson and his team enough for helping us find and secure our dream home! From start to finish, their dedication, expertise, and professionalism made the entire process smooth and stress-free. They took the time to understand our needs, provided invaluable guidance, and went above and beyond to ensure everything fell into place perfectly. Their knowledge of the market, attention to detail, and excellent communication gave us confidence every step of the way. If you're looking for a realtor w
RAF Property Management was great in supporting me to rent an apartment in Berkeley! Kate was kind, professional and built a good bridge between me and the owner of the apartment. She helped us to achieve fair agreements, being very empathetic with my situation as a foreigner, always looking for accommodating my needs. The apartment was in very good conditions and when something needed to be done, their staff was very helpful and would fix it without charging me.
Thank you, Jason, for not only finding the perfect property to purchase, but also arranging the financing for me. You could not have made the process easier, and/or smoother. Working with you was a pleasure every step of the way. Your realtor understood exactly what I was looking for and was able to find the perfect property. They did not waste my time showing me a multitude of properties that did not meet my criteria. The loan process was extremely quick, and effortless on my end. I had everything ex
Jason and his staff are awesome! Made my first time home buying experience a delight. He's very knowledgeable and great to work with. He kept everything upfront and honest which I really appreciate. Answer my 100 million questions I had since I was so clueless. I gain so much knowledge from Jason from purchasing my new home that I didn't know about. I am just so grateful to have work with such great people. I will definitely be reaching out again for future purchases.
Jason and his realtor and staff did an excellent job managing my rental property. The transition to professional management was smooth with all steps explained to me. They provided monthly online accounting of income & expenses. They efficiently handled new lease execution explaining all of the details. They handled tenant move out, inspections and deposit returns. I am very happy with RAF Investment Services work in handling my investment property. I am also very happy with how Jason and his Realtor assist
RAF Investment Services did not care about my neighbor building things on my apartment and making my living conditions bad.
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.