*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.*
2646 Palma Dr Suite 470
Ventura, California 93003
Another Tax Season and I am as pleased as ever. Scott has been my tax guy for the last few years and I could not be happier. The experience starts with kind and professional treatment from his staff. There is always timely communication and confirmation leading up to your appointment. Then sitting down with Scott is always a fun and informative experience. He does his best to explain all the possible outcomes always looking out for the absolute best financial outcome. He is always present and you are h
Scott and Lori Stephen?s are a professional couple, yet treat us like family. From start to finish, Scott was incredibly knowledgeable and patient in explaining everything to us in terms we could understand. He made the entire tax filing process seamless and stress-free! Not only did he help us save money, but he also provided invaluable advice for future tax planning. They are highly recommended!
Scott and his team are incredibly quick and professional. I've been doing my taxes with them for over seven years now and Scott is always helpful and efficient with the numbers as well as able to communicate the process in a way that I can understand. They've helped me save a lot more money than I would on my own over the years. Would recommend them to anyone who needs an honest and reliable tax return.
I had a very positive and stress free experience when I had my taxes done with Scott Stephen?s. He was professional, knowledgeable and helpful. He was also funny, friendly and easy to talk too! His staff were nice and respectful!
Smooth, reassuring, and remarkably efficient. I was expecting the stereotypical accountant ? glasses lowered, judging my financial situation ? but instead, I walked out feeling like I'd made a friend. Someone with my best interest at the center of his work. The staff was wonderful, and Scott is a genuinely likable and brilliant guy who clearly loves what he does.
Scott and staff were very courteous and professional. Scott is very knowledgeable and has clear understanding of your tax needs. Very thorough and detailed. I would highly recommend Scott and Associates for any tax concerns or filing purposes. Thank you, Mike Masmela.
I found Stephens & Associates from Chat GTP while trying to figure out how to take my family's expenses and my business finances more seriously. It was time to find a true tax professional now that I'm married and a new father. From my initial phone call to finding out more all the way to finishing my taxes in person with Scott (very quickly and for an extremely fair cost) the process and service was exceptional from the entire team. Sure, they do your taxes, but Scott's mentality is forming a positive bu
We've been going to Scott for a few years now and we couldn't be happier. It is always a joy working with Scott and his wife Lori. We have peace of mind knowing he has prepared our taxes with knowledge and professionalism. We couldn't recommend anyone better for tax preparation than Scott and Lori!
Stephens & Associates were great and professional. They explained everything clearly, caught deductions I missed, and got me a better refund than expected. Highly recommend and will use again next year!
WOW! Scott and his team are amazing! Hiring professionals like them to handle your taxes is worth every penny?far better than using HR Block or TurboTax. Save yourself the headache, stress, and frustration!
I (and now most of my family) have been using their services (tax preparation, accounting, and just general consulting) for over 3 years now, and we are so thankful to have found such a helpful, patient, and reliable team!
I've been using Scott for my taxes for several years. He is very knowledgeable and prompt. A great resource for me. I refer all my clients to him.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for help with taxes. Absolutely worth it to have everything done correctly and stress free. Genuinely good people who are professional but treat you like family.
Scot and his associates are simply the best! They made the tax season not feel like a burden. Very fast, knowledgeable, and reliable.
Scott is really knowledgeable and helpful of getting my tax returns done. Will continue to do business with him.
Always professional, kind, friendly and efficient. Very knowledgeable and patient. Best tax office to use. Scott and staff are wonderful.
Tax time again!! Love getting my taxes done by Scott and Lori! Brenden is so friendly too! Thank you so much!
Scott is always so professional and gets my taxes done quickly and accurately. It's a pleasure doing business with him.
Excellent consulting on small business aspects of tax burdens and obligations. Great staff! Thanks very much Scott!
My husband and I recently had the pleasure of working with Stephen and Lori on our taxes and LLC, and we couldn't be more satisfied! The entire process, from beginning to end, was seamless, professional, and efficient. Stephen and Lori were exceptionally helpful, consistently responsive, and always went above and beyond to meet our needs. I highly recommend Stephen and Associates to anyone in search of exceptional service.
The staff is always so friendly. I know that my taxes will be done right. Thank you for everything! See you next year.
ABSOLUTELY LOVE THEM! They are fair, honest and FAST!!! If you are looking for someone to help with your taxes, this is the right solution.
I got all of my questions answered and was very pleased with the time Mr. Stephens took to explain some very complex tax laws.
We started with Stephens and associates back in 2019 after we bought our first house. Scott has helped us every step of the way. Answered all our questions & even made suggestions when we asked for them. Laurie is the sweetest & very hospitable. They make a great team. Even better friends and would not go ANYWHERE else for our taxes.
I went in with HIGH ANXIETY, I left out smiling and laughing. GREAT experience for myself and my first time filing daughter. Thank you so much for your awesome service. Highly recommended. If you are looking for knowledge, kindness, patience and a good laugh, stop by!!! Clients for life!!
Scott & Lori are hospitable, welcoming and honest. We've been going for the last 5 years and we will not go anywhere else. Scott is very smart and always up to date with the changes and additional write offs that are allowed. He answers all questions honestly and where I can understand them. I don't just highly recommend Scott, I ONLY recommend Scott.
Scott and Lori are absolutely AWSOME!!! Their professionalism, In-depth Tax knowledge along with their personal touch is just OUTSTANDING!!!. A true Manifestation, there's still Good People among us. They truly restored our faith, reassurance and peace of mind. Their ability to alleviate our fears of getting our taxes done was greatly appreciated. Their Actions spoke volumes. We are humbled by their kindness.
Scott & Lori are the BEST! Hands Down. Great Service Once you arrive at the office you're we'll treated & WELL TAKEN CARE OF. Great Place to file taxes, and get GREAT FINANCIAL SUPPORT
I highly recommend Scott for tax matters - he's a good guy.
Always an awesome and smooth experience. I won't go anywhere else. Love these guys!!!
Experienced, trustworthy, and knowledgeable professional service you can trust with a welcoming smile.
Stephen and Associates help me out so much I walked away with clear conscience and that's hard to do in this day and age I give a 10 out of 10?AAAAA??++++++
Very friendly and kind!!! Very efficient and professional!!! Thank you so much!! We are very happy to find you!!
Amazing service from the second you walk in till when you leave and everything in between couldn't be more pleased! Thank you
Scott is the best!!! Also, his rates are very reasonable.
Very professional. Knowledgeable, willing to address questions from clients. Will use again.
Great experience! Quick and friendly office visit. Thank you.
Scott was amazing. Fast, kind, and saved me $$$.
The best of the best! Mark my words, you'll never find a better accountant!
Excellent Service, very professional and knowledgeable.
Amazing! We love Stephens and Associates!??
Great people efficient down to earth and professional
We always get the best of treatment and care when we deal with the Stephens team. Definitely recommend their services!
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.