*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.*
3405 Kenyon St #301
San Diego, California 92110
This company is life changing. Carol and Greg and all of their employees are super heroes. I contacted Carol after Hospice recommended them. My mom's financial resources were shrinking fast due to memory care facility monthly fees. I needed help navigating the Medi-cal bureaucracy and they took over and handled everything. The fee they charge is so worth every penny and then some. They were all professional, caring, patient and quick to handle everything that came up and answer every question in a time
Carol and her team are very knowledgeable, professional and thorough. They guided me through the process and made sure I knew how to best protect my mom. I was in full panic several times and Carol immediately helped me resolve the issues I encountered. I don't know how I would have navigated the process without The Light For Seniors. They are A++ and I highly recommend them.
We highly recommend the Light for Seniors, Inc. Carol Costa Smith President/CEO is devoted to sharing her expertise in the areas of senior issues, long-term care preparation, Medi-Cal, estate planning, nursing homes, assisted living, and in-home care. Also advice with financial management. Our elderly mother was Carol's client from May 2020 to December 2024.
I was referred to this company by a friend of our family. I called last Thursday and got sent to voicemail so I left a message. I called again Friday and again was sent to voicemail. Today, Monday, I called again and the phone was answered by a lady named Crystal. I asked about getting an appointment for a consultation to help my elder parents and she said she was currently too busy and would take my number and call me back in 20 minutes. It was no shock when she never called me back. Horrible customer serv
Finding Carol and the team was a true blessing! Navigating the waters of care for loved ones can be treacherous at best, but having Carol onboard provided guidance and action every step of the way. And above all, she and the team continue to be there whenever needed, which is so reassuring. My mom now has care that I could not personally provide, and I can sleep at night knowing she has an advocate in Carol. Case in point, yesterday, with one phone call, Carol's expertise and knowledge of the system moved m
I hired this company because I needed help qualifying my elderly mother for Medi-Cal. She has a unique set of circumstances and I knew I could not navigate the system on my own. Carol and her team, including Greg and Emily (and everyone else I have worked with) are absolutely wonderful. They are caring and patient and truly want to help families. They always answer all of my questions and concerns. They understand how the system works like no one else and got my mom qualified, and continue to renew her
The Light for Seniors agency rates 5 stars, five times over! Ever since my first call to them with questions about my 96-year-old mother?s future care and financial concerns, I've received nothing but excellent help! Their entire staff is very knowledgeable and were always quick to respond to my calls and emails. I was helped step-by-step through the Medi-Cal application process and was provided with other invaluable references, consultation, and advocacy services. They know this complex senior-benefits-ma
Carol and her team are fantastic. They helped us navigate a maze of government rules and allowed us to focus on caring for my elderly parents. It would have been frankly impossible without them. I'm so grateful for all the support and help they have given us.
Carol has been an amazing help to our family during a very difficult time. She helped us navigate the very difficult (and confusing) process of applying for Medi-Cal for our mom, and has been a constant source of information and support for our family. Throughout the process, I spoke with many 'experts', but no one was as knowledgable and helpful as Carol. I couldn't recommend her and The Light for Seniors more.
Elder care can be a complicated and extremely time consuming. Carol and her team have taken such good care of our family while keeping my folks dignity and showing great respect. They have helped us navigate the departments, forms, and contacts to get the best and most complete service for our parents. I seriously don't know what I would have done without their help!
This business professionally guides folks who have run out of resources into the arms of Medi-Cal benefits. I thought I was out of options for my mom who's finances were dwindling but her medical needs were increasing. After months of panicking and dreaming up options, I contacted a resource who then connected me with The Light for Seniors. There is a fee for their expertise and guidance, but rest assured that they will get a qualified senior approved for Medi-Cal and then after they are admitted to a place
Entire team at Light for Seniors is first-rate! They are knowledgeable, empathetic, responsive and professional. We needed expert advice and guidance quickly for a complicated family situation with many "moving parts." The team engaged and exceeded our expectations. Strongly recommend you phone or email them to understand their extraordinary capabilities.
If I could give 10 stars I would! I couldn't be more grateful for the help from The Light For Seniors to help guide me through the confusing process of helping my mom with her finances. We couldn't have done it without them!
Carol Costa-Smith and her team are compassionate, efficient and incredibly knowledgeable. I literally could not have completed this process without their expert guidance and work on my parent's behalf. Thank you!!!
I highly recommend this group. They are all so helpful and compassionate! I don't know what I would have done without their help and advice. Thank you Carol and staff!
Carol is extremely knowledgeable, friendly and professional, and really cares about the people she helps.
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.