*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.*
16950 Via De Santa Fe Suite 5060-160
Rancho Santa Fe, California 92067
Bill was recommended to me by another advanced asset protection attorney who works with Bill and spoke very highly of the asset protection plans Bill puts together for clients. That says something about a lawyer?s competency and personality when a competitor is willing to recommend him to help me. Sollertis and Bill Simon do a great job of organizing my complex real estate businesses, doing my due diligence work, and executing on the operational legal plan and the asset protection plan we put in place. The
This was my first time selling a business and what really impressed me about Bill was when he came to the business meeting with the other side of the deal and he sat there by my side when I was making all the critical decisions about the sale of my business. Bill and I met when there were already offers on the table to purchase my retail business. I spoke to my financial advisor about where to put the proceeds from the sale, and that's when he referred me to the law firm Sollertis and asset protection att
I am very satisfied with the exceptional service provided by Sollertis! The team has helped us streamline our business operations and improve the way we function so we have less exposure to legal liability. The implementation of our MAPP has been a game-changer for our family and for my peace of mind, honestly. I appreciate the time everyone on the team spends to understand me and my ways and it shows me they actually care. I get detailed advice in real time, and Bill?s expertise is simply top-notch. I high
Bill Simon and the team at Sollertis have helped me with personal asset protection and estate planning for me and other members of my family. I have also worked with Bill to set up living trusts, negotiate business deals and contracts for my construction company, and to take care of some personal legal issues. Bill Simon has a way of putting my mind at ease and relaxing my nerves. I find I can trust his expertise and his demeanor has a way of relaxing my anxiety. He shares the next 3, 5, or 10 steps that
As a business owner, I knew that legal issues and precautions are part of running my business. After growing a few large businesses and acquiring real estate holdings over the past 30+ years, I learned more about how vulnerable I really was to any customer or creditor that wanted to come after me personally. When I needed an attorney for estate planning, I quickly realized that what I actually needed was an asset protection attorney. It was quickly apparent to me that having one entity, some business insur
The team of lawyers at Sollertis is top-notch. Not only the attorneys but the staff too. I first came to Sollertis when I was going through a difficult divorce, and it was apparent that I needed to put out some of the fires before I could begin working towards protecting my investments and other assets after the divorce. Once I started working with Sollertis and attorney Bill Simon, I established a level of trust early on with him and I'm loyal to our relationships because I have that trust. I started wit
Bill and his team at Sollertis are incredibly knowledgable and experienced at asset protection and have been very helpful in helping me understand how to be a better investor. As I embark on my future business pursuits, it is reassuring to know I have them on my side. Thank you!
Not sure if a zero star is possible but it is deserved here. Was encouraged to use this entity by my accountant who , in retrospect, regretted the recommendation. I was told what the costs would be only to exceed that by 300%, and after 200k being spent on this endeavor I found out the work they did was basically useless in protecting my assets in California. The experience was a nightmare, staff doing filing work at times and being billed at ridiculous rates, it dragged on for years. A physician colleague,
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.