*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.*
16 W Elm St
Lodi, California 95240
Don't go them if you have any simple tax questions at all. Patty is rude, and will talk to you like she is above all. I literally just had a question about my taxes having a new source to report, she totally said "you're not special, everybody's taxes are done the same way". Um, I wasn't looking for anything special, and no, not everybody's taxes are done the same way ?? so rudely unprofessional! She must've been having a bad day or something.
Terrible customer service. Run; don't walk. In my opinion, these goofballs couldn't handle a kid's lemonade stand. Patti was extremely rude and unprofessional. It was a total disaster. The owner, Patti, later proceeded with her bizarre, aggressive harassment and made untrue statements in her response to another review on another site, as possible revenge, as it appears that she didn't seem to want any truth to be posted. Our only purpose for reviewing this business is to save someone else from a bad busines
Verna was beyond knowledgeable about taxes she was friendly and fast she was able to get me an appointment that worked for me. The order workers seemed to be pretty friendly as well and none made me feel bad that I had to bring in my two young daughter's. The place was clean and welcoming. So glad I came here instead of h&r block to file my tax return.
My husband and I had our taxes done this morning by Patty. What an easy and relaxing experience. Patty was very professional, but she made us feel very comfortable. I have been doing our taxes on turbo tax but something changed and made it really confusing so we decided to go to a professional, and so glad we did! Patty is our new tax person, thank you Patty for a great experience!
We visited Saldana & Associates for our second year in a row to see Verna. Last year was such an easy and seamless experience, so going back was a no brainer. Thank you Verna, for making us feel welcome and giving us the same great service we got last year! I definitely recommend taking time to visit them and I have already referred friends and family of my own! See you next year!
Patti is the absolute best! I had used accountants in the past and until I found Patti, I had always had issues regarding communication, promptness or competence! Patti is always there whenever I have a question regardless of the time of year and she is always great at explaining the tax code or any question I might have. She provides me with ABSOLUTE PEACE OF MIND, and that alone is PRICELESS! I will never go anywhere else I do not care where I live in the United States, I will always use Patti because
Since I have been able to file taxes Patti is who I have gone to; this was my eleventh year filing. She is fantastic, she's personable, thorough and always willing to answer any questions you may have. As long as Patti is in the tax business she will be my go to.
Very happy with our appt and having our taxes done! Thank you Verna for your help this year . We will be repeat customers. The process was quick and painless and we are happy. Great customer service!
Very pleased with my tax preparation! Handled in the upmost professional manner with all my past present and future concerns addressed adequately. Marcos Saldana is a very helpful and trustworthy tax associate.
Very clean and organized. Got in and out in less then 30 mins. I didn't even need an appointment but I did one just in case. It was my first time going here. Verna was great and easy to talk to.
I was pleased to get my taxes done at Saldana and Associates. I worked with Verna, who was both efficient and pleasant. I plan on going back next year.
I got my taxes done here and it was an awesome experience!, I walked out with the Peace of Mind thank you! They are going to be my new tax people from now on! No waiting and my girlfriend got hers done the same afternoon.
Vicky was quick, efficient, knowledgeable, and made getting our taxes done a smooth process. Look forward to working with her next year again!
I will be getting my taxes done here. Verna is amazing at what she does. She is knowledgeable and friendly.
Very friendly staff. Would recommend to anyone looking to do their taxes here. They will answer any questions you have for them and will take care of you for sure.
I will always get my taxes done here. Patty is very good and I've always been happy with their service
Veranda was amazing she did everything she could to get me the best return.
Verna did a great job for me!! Thanks and see you next year!
Loved it. My new place to come to fill out my taxes. Guaranteed.
Amazing customer service. Very knowledgable and gets all Q answered !
(Translated by Google) Mrs. Paty is very kind and professional, she helps Latin people a lot with her patience. We highly recommend her, we have been in other places that are zero helpful and with her a result with a good taste in my mouth I give her 5 stars ???????? (Original) La se?ora paty es muy amable y profesional ayuda mucho a las personas latinas con su paciencia La recomendamos mucho hemos estado en otros lugares cero serviciales y con ella a resultado con buen sabor de boca le doy su s 5 estrella
(Translated by Google) Very professional (Original) Muy profesional
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.