*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.*
2333 San Ramon Valley Blvd STE 250
San Ramon, California 94583
My husband and I have been with Secure Retirement for quite a few years. We entered into this relationship not knowing what to expect or where it would lead... We have not been disappointed. Richard and Jeff have proven to be very knowledgeable in their field. With our retirement coming closer and closer, we feel more ready for what awaits us than we would be without them. With wonderful staff working with them, we always feel welcome when we go into the office. My husband and I have in the past and will co
Well, where do I start? Let?s start back in 2000. I was my own super star investor. I rocked it with 80% gains one year. This was with the security for my future. I was doing awesome? until I wasn?t. I lost over 70% of my valuable retirement 401k in the Dot.Com crash. It took me 10 years to just get back to parity. It taught me a few very valuable lessons in investing, the main one being ?I Suck At It?. In 2007 a person at work brought Richard to my attention and we attended one of his dinners where he pres
I know I am very well taken care of by Secure Retirement and feel safe, about my retirement assets, which have increased in value over the years. Jeff and Richard are immediately responsive when I call or email, and we get right on whatever the task is or the decision to make.They are receptive to my ideas and advise me well on them. I really appreciate the variety of options available and the honest, informed, and sound advice they give. I am especially happy with the growth and good work of the environmen
I have been a client of Secure Retirement now for over 10 years. I had used a number of financial advisors over a number of years previously. I can say without doubt that Richard Morey and his staff at Secure Retirement are heads and shoulders above any other financial advisor I have ever used (or, frankly, been personally aware of). His approach of principal protection matched with optimized returns across all types of financial / market environments has turned out to be the perfect approach for investo
We have been so blessed to have found Secure Retirement! Richard and Jeff have so much to help us set ourselves up financially for both the future and monthly income. They are always and email or a phone call away when I have a question and are alway happy to help me understand and learn about this complex field. We truly trust both Richard and Jeff, as well his their team to always have our best interests in mind and to work hard in helping us achieve our financial goals!
Secure Retirement is a secure and flexible approach to handle your investments. I trust the entire team to continue to make outstanding investment decisions during the most challenging times. Secure Retirement is focussed on ensuring your wealth suffers no loss but rather continues to make gains, even in the worst times. The entire team are professionals and well known in the industry. I highly recommend Secure Retirement for your for your long-term investments.
I gave this firm 1star rating because no stars isn't available. I'll post non professional offensive statements in the next few months when my health is better. 9/9/21 I'm not surprise that I'm thinking about how Richard snookered me and stole my money. I always contacted him within 2 days of coming out of flareup. He would say something like you are good. I always asked for the report. Show me the money! Today is my first day out of a Fibromyalgia flareup. Richard has single handedly caused every flare
Always available for personal interaction. As a longtime client I find the team at Secure Retirement extremely caring and helpful when questions arise .
I have been working with Richard and Jeff for some time. Wont be doing so anymore. They Recommend wortthless REITS. Dont get snookered.
There is no other company I'd rather have investing my life savings, than Secure Retirement. Great company that works for your best interests??
I had had very good experiences with this company and will continue to invest with them. Everyone is quite pleasant and easy to work with.
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.