*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.*
275 Saratoga Ave STE 108
Santa Clara, California 95050
I have been coming to RC Blackwell?s Tax Service for 23 years. I can't imagine them not being around for me and my families. I look forward to seeing them every year. We continue coming here because the service is excellent and the staff is always very nice and knowledgeable in what they do. Roslyn has helped me improve the way I think about doing my taxes with tools such as a tax organizer, quick and easy uploads to the portal. Her consultations throughout the year when I needed it has been a tremendous he
I was looking for a tax service and saw that RC Blackwell's Tax Service had many five-star reviews, so I decided to give them a try. I could not be happier with the service provided by Roslyn. She was very patient and knowledgeable. If you are anywhere near Santa Clara and need assistance with your taxes you should definitely use RC Blackwell's Tax Service. Highly recommended!
Roslyn from RC Blackwell is an amazing person! She and her team is so welcoming and was so helpful in resolving our filing gap for our 2017 taxes filing. 2017 was the first year that we filed for our business tax. And boy did we miss a lot. (And we used Turbotax). Then again with our 2018 taxes. I run my own business and sometimes we just forget all the expenses that was spent in the previous year. And as a fellow business owner, I realy appreciate how detailed she is with her work. And she's just a
I have been coming to Roslyn for a few years now and it's always great seeing her and the staff as well as her sweet dog ?? Shiitake! I trust her and her advice with my taxes! See you next year!
I couldn't let the year end without writing a review about Roslyn and RCBlackwell. I was referred by her client as a favor and I really thank God after the meeting. She welcomed me with mask on, hand sanitizer in hand making sure we were safe. I was the only person in the office. She asked me a series of questions to create my profile. As the meeting went on, I had a sense of what I needed to do to settle my tax issues. She also pointed out that a previous tax preparer could have done things better in
Roslyn was a delight to work with and her services are excellent. She was able to maximize our returns for our complex case
Roselyn and her staff family are the best! She is patient, kind and understanding. Quality tax services is what they offer. I highly recommend!!!
She is quick with her work if you're prepared and a kind person. However, 2 of the 3 years we filed with her we got notices that we needed to follow-up.
Excellent customer service and attention to detail, highly recommended
Roslyn went above and beyond to provide expert tax advice for a reasonable fee. I highly recommend this accounting service.
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.