*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.*
15576 Gale Ave
Hacienda Heights, California 91745
This was my 1st time doing my taxes with Marlene. I was referred by a friend. She is great very helpful, understanding and very patient. She helped me with my personal taxes and my business taxes. She is well recommended and I will continue doing my taxes with her. Thank you Marlene and her assistant. Alex was amazing too having all my paperwork in order and sending reminders of my appointments.
I have been going to Taxes by Marleen for 10+ years and I am very satisfied with the service in preparing my taxes. The office was very accommodating and efficient in every way. My taxes were done in a timely manner and I must say the professionalism was outstanding. I have and will certainly recommend my friends to Taxes by Marleen, and know that I will return next year.
I've been a client of Taxes By Marlene for over 15 years, and I wouldn't trust anyone else with my taxes! Fani is truly a professional?her knowledge and expertise go far beyond what you'll find with those seasonal tax preparers. She takes the time to ensure everything is done accurately, efficiently, and with my best interests in mind. She stays up to date with tax laws and always provides valuable insights that help me make informed financial decisions. If you're looking for a tax expert who is reliable, t
Marlene has been my to go to for many years now and I would not go anywhere else. From day one she made me feel welcomed and had simple answers to all my questions. She loves what she does and is very knowledgeable, therefore gives you nothing but good quality service.
Ive been coming to Marlene for many years now and wouldnt go any where else. Her and her office staff have always been of great help, when it comes to any questions or doubts we may have about filing out taxes. We would highly recommend her to our friends and family.
The service was Great , the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful Thank you Alex for explaining to me how to use the Portal, and a Big Thank You to Fani for always preparing My Taxes, and the service exceeded my expectations as usual, that's why I keep coming back for the past 5 years. I would highly recommend Taxes by Marlene inc. to anyone looking for Taxes
The best tax preparation in California! Excellent service, extremely professional, and experts at what they do. Bilingual too, stop by and be amazed for yourself . Signed , grateful client :)
Marlene is a beautiful soul who is a wizard at doing taxes! If you get to be near her it's a great privilege. ??
Marlene and her staff were super responsive and supportive with my business and personal needs. I've been a client for the last 3 years and she has professionally guided and educated me on the right decisions on personal and business taxes. I set up my payrolll and accounting and it has been a turn key system. I love that the staff is quick with responses and will always get my questions answered. Thank you Marlene and team see you next year!
Claudia is fantastic! They're incredibly knowledgeable, thorough, and made tax season a breeze. Highly recommend!"
My taxes have been completed by Marlene for at least 10 years now. She is professional, friendly and knowledgeable about current tax changes. I would definitely recommend her for tax preparation.
STAY AWAY, STAY AWAY, STAY AWAY ???????????????????????????????????? ALL RED FLAGS HERE Please do yourself a favor and stay from this please. Marlene will lie on your return and say you ?went to school? or ?you have a child? in order to get your a higher return. She lied on my return and said I went to school in order to get me a higher return. Plz double check your return to ensure she doesn't do the same to you. In addition she will offer to review your last 3 returns to see if she can get you a higher
They don't even deserve 1 star. They never returned calls, but love to charge for services they provide half way. They always have an excuse for not calling back. Both Marlene and her son Robert are the same. Horrible service.
Do yourself a huge favor and don't waste your time or money with these certified scammers. Not only did she falsify my tax information unbeknownst to me but now I owe money to the IRS that I shouldn't, due to her dishonesty and complete inability to do her job. I've learned a huge lessons from this and would urge anyone considering using her services to run fast!
Too bad she has to have 1 star, this business deserves NO STARS. So unprofessional; and not a nice person. Does not meet clients timely. And when she does finally show up she and her son are disrespectful. Will not return phone calls. Do not use this business!
Really bad experience dealing with Taxes by Marlene. Had an appointment at 12 noon and arrived 5 minutes early. Waited for more than 45 minutes, and they're still not ready. They seem to have no problem letting customers wait. Very inconsiderate of other people's time.
Forced to give one star for review to go threw. Don't come here I regret paying this women to do my taxes she did them wrong and didn't have the decency to fix her mistake. Go somewhere else. Now I have to fix this situation with the IRS, therefore doing my own taxes because she won't. In that case maybe my money needs to be returned to me instead of my calls getting blocked from her offices.
Been coming here 15+ years . Never got red flagged never no issues she is very professional. No complaints
I absolutely love Marlene! She is very helpful, down to earth, and positive!
Best place to have your taxes done. I've alway had the best time with Marlene and alway feeling welcome. ??
I love going to taxes by Marlene she is very friendly has a great personality
Great service, this will be my third year straight coming to Taxes by Marlene.
Awesome place. Very busy but because people likes the service
She has done good work on my taxes.
bad service i do dont recommend this place
The best tax place around...
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.