*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.*
300 E Esplanade Dr 14th floor Suite 1400
Oxnard, California 93036
I went to a workshop that Tom was doing on Social Security benefits, and I'm so glad I did! I met with Tom a few weeks later to discuss my financial plans and goals for my retirement. Tom is very knowledgeable and took the time to explain things to me in a way a non financially minded person, such as myself, could understand. I have about 11 yrs until retirement and I am confident that I will be better off financially because Tom took the time & helped guide me to make my money work smarter. I highly recom
I want to thank Tom Tyo from Strategic path Financial Group for guiding me through the process of making the correct decisions on my purchase of whole life insurance, revocable living trust, Last will and Testament and financial decisions. Being that I was a total rookie at this I had many, many questions regarding this subject. Tom was very patient with me and answered all my questions. Tom was able to see and understand what my thoughts and intensions were and was able to guide me exactly to what I consi
Tom would be a true asset for any individual looking to utilize a financial advisor to help them achieve their financial goals.
We met Tom at strategic path during a workshop. We signed up for him to review our finances for retirement. He worked diligently through everything and came up with nice plans and suggested couple financial moves to help secure some of our money so to confirm our retirement won't run out way before we do!! We feel better about our money and see a more comfortable retirement down the road. If you have any issues or uncertainties or snags, Tom will help and resolve them for you! Glad we met him!
What a blessing to find Tom! He took the time to look at my situation, advise me on the pros/cons of when to begin social security benefits, reviewed my other retirement assets and created a solid, workable plan for retirement. But the true gift is he provided me with peace of mind knowing I will be solid financially as I age. He provides a wealth of financial information in a way that a "non-financial" person can understand! Tom makes retirement planning a breeze! Stop reading these reviews and just
I recently had the good fortune to have Tom and George assist me with some retirement planning. They were knowledgeable, accessible, responsive, trustworthy, and spoke a financial language that I could understand and that didn't overwhelm. These guys had some really helpful ideas that will be beneficial to, and will help me achieve, my retirement objectives. Can't recommend Strategic Path Financial enough.
Tom and George Tyo have been extremely helpful in our financial planning for the future. They have provided their expertise so we were able to feel financially confident as we entered into retirement. We have been pleased with the results we have received , and would highly recommend their services.
It was a wonderful experience to work with Tom Tyo! Tom was informative and professional while keeping me on track with all that I needed to do with moving my 401K. I also really valued the personal approach and outstanding customer service Tom extended to me. He made sure I had all the information I needed to make the best decision possible. I highly recommend Tom Tyo and Strategic Path Financial Group!
I had the good fortune to meet George and Tom Tyo at a social security seminar they put together at our local JC. The class was very eye opening! their knowledge of the hows and whens of the SS maze was enlightening. I had always made my own investments and had never really considered seeking help planning my retirement but I was so impressed that I sat down with them for an initial evaluation. They opened my eyes to some aspects of retirement planning that I had ignored in the past. The changes that w
My wife and I are very impressed with our experience with Strategic Path Financial Group. Tom and George were very patient and willing to meet with us several times until we fully understood the plan they had for us. They were very professional and mapped out a strategic retirement financial plan that put us on a clear path to the comfortable retirement we had always hoped to achieve. Thanks guys!!
I had the opportunity working with Tom and one of his valued clients in Las Vegas Nevada. If you are looking for a professional, personable, and talented strategic financial planner Tom Tyo with Strategic Path Financial Group will exceed your expectations. He is extremely patient, kind, honest and treats each client with the upmost respect and integrity. He is truly knowledgeable in financial planning and has the experience it takes to achieve your financial goals. Toms dedication and appreciation for his
It was a real pleasure working with Tom and George Tyo. Both men are extremely professional and knowledgeable. Our family found them to be both forthright and honest in their assessments and recommendations. We were also impressed with how Tom and George were willing to spend time to answer our questions and discuss even the smallest of details. Based on our recent interactions with SPFG and the Tyos, we expect a long, productive relationship.
Tom was very patient and explained things clearly and kept me informed during the matriculation of the paperwork.He upgraded me to a better product that suits my conservative level of risk and I feel that he has my back. He has a warm and comfortable style. Athene annuity recommended him to me.
Extremely helpful in this difficult time. Tom has eased some burden for me by his consistent follow through . He is personable and professional.
I had a wonderful experience with TOM AND GEORGE TYO at STATEGIC PATH FINANCIAL GROUP. THEIR.....EXPERTISE....ENTHUSIASM,................PATIENCE.....and ATTENTION to Detail were Phenomenal in converting My GOVERNMENT TSP to a INSURANCE ANNUITY RETIREMENT PLAN,.... 5 stars....and 1,000 percent rating. Thank You, Sincerely, Danny Wolf.
My experience with has been very positive. They are helpful and are always looking for the best plan for their clients' future financial security. They are very trustworthy. I feel very confident in their advice and the products they offered to me.
Tom listens to your goals and trys to help you get there. Honest
Easy to work with and very knowledgeable.
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.