*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.*
333 W Shaw Ave Suite 106
Fresno, California 93704
They do not have experience with pre-retirement planning or working with younger people, Dale's words not mine. Dale gave me a timeline of a week to get back to me because he needed to talk to his team and CPA however never followed up, like promised. He was aware of my personal circumstance had time constraints. I called to follow up and he asked 'are you the one who ...' it was very rude and made it seem like I was unimportant and had showed me he already forgotten. If he knew I wasn't a good fit from the
Dale has been a tremendous asset to me and our family. He has provided guidance in helping us decide what is the best financial decision we can make by helping us to understand all the options before we make any decision. He explains all the various opportunities which includes tax ramifications, long term growth, we always know safety of the investment is paramount in his recommendations, that is called peace of mind, and you just can't beat that. There is a wide range of ages in our family and Dale makes
Dale Soutas and the staff at Soutas Financial have been so phenomenal in the last few years, assisting us during a difficult time when we needed to transition our mother to a nursing home facility for her own safety. Dale provided clear, concise and very thorough information and answered all of my extensive questions. I cannot imagine trying to go thru this process without his assistance. The service was excellent and it continued to be excellent year after year during each MediCal recertification period
We were very fortunate to have Dale and his group recommended to us. With his knowledge we were able do what was needed for our family. We greatly appreciate him and his staff! Again a heartfelt thank you to Dale, Kathia, and Amelia. Without their expertise we would have been totally lost. We have and do highly recommend Soutas Financial!
As I have worked with Dale, I have been impressed with the personable, yet professional, approach to my needs. He has been straight forward in answers and recommendations. He continues with followups without pressuring. I will continue in working my financial needs with His Office.
We lost my grandpa in February due to Covid. Dale and Kathia have been nothing but helpful through the whole process. So if you want someone that's going to have your back and treat you like family these are your go to people. They're patient friendly and go out of their way to help you with your needs.
Dear Dale S. Soutas, I would like to thank you for your help. I was so concerned about how to handle my retirement paper work. I was so confused!!! You and your staff helped I and my husband David so much. Now we know what we need to do to go forward with our retirement. We highly recommend anyone that needs help planing their retirement/future investments to contact ... Dale S. Soutas Financial Sincerely, Sharon Arias We look forward to our next appointment.
Very knowlegable and gives you all the facts whether good or bad. Outstanding attitude and good hummer. We do all are financial with Dale.
Extremely friendly. I went in to see about rental property from mr. Costello. The receptionist was very informative on the rental properties the had available. When I called in if i had to leave a message they responded back quickly.
They know their business
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.