*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.*
100 Stony Point Rd Suite 244
Santa Rosa, California 95401
I was a very happy client of Zack Swad for several years when he was employed by a large investment firm. When Zack left the company to start his own firm I was assigned to a couple of agents, but no one understood me like Zack. I recently found Zack and returned my lifesavings to his care. Zack cares about his clients. He explains every thing he does, asks questions about all sorts of personal goals. He thinks outside the box when developing your financial plan ..He is with you every step of the way.
Navigating through retirement & having to make big decisions is both scary & difficult. But Zack Swad of Swad Wealth Management made that process easy. His unique approach to financial planning is refreshing! Zack, has a way of making you feel at ease & is very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Swad Wealth Management for any of the services that he provides. We're so glad that we found him to assist us with our needs!
My husband and I came back to Zack after he went out on his own after having him as our advisor at another firm. After two years of being ignored by that other firm, even as a Private Client, we decided to have Zack again manage our investments. In Zack, we found someone who truly does take the time to focus on our individual investment goals and needs, come up with a credible, understandable investment approach to recommend to us, and conducts quarterly follow up calls with us to go over how things are goi
Swad Wealth provided my husband and I with the in-depth expertise that we needed to create both a vision and roadmap. I've recommended Zack and his team to my favorite people. 5-stars!
As we began planning our retirement, we interviewed several companies, both local and national. We really liked the approach taken by Swad Wealth Management. They follow a comprehensive approach to the retirement process including financial, legal, and goal orientation. We very much appreciate the personalized service and accessibility to a local expert. We very much trust their guidance and advice. They always make us feel like a very important client. We'll recommend Zach to our colleagues and frie
I have been working with Zack since Spring 2023. He is helping me with retirement plans and making sound decisions for now and the future. I appreciate his knowledge and ability to see the picture from many angles. Zach is meeting my expectations and more.
Zack is very refreshing to have as my wealth manager!! He is very knowledgeable about finance Zack spends time and talks through your concerns and makes the best decisions based on what information you give home to work on So glad that I made the switch from Fidelity Thank you Zack!!!
Zack is guy you want. He is patient, listens, and works hard to help you understand his plan for putting you hard-earned money to work. I trust him 100%
Having such a thoughtful and knowledgeable professional in our corner is so helpful and reassuring. We appreciate all the help working though our financial priorities and objectives for the future.
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.