*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.*
5405 Morehouse Dr UNIT 345
San Diego, California 92121
Where do I begin??? First and foremost, Tyler from Tidemark Financial Partners came highly recommended to me by my CPA, and now I know why! I don't recommend anyone doing what I did, but I had to find a Financial Planner and Third Party Administrator mid December to apply for, open and fund a corporate sponsored 401 (k) plan by December 31st. This is not something just any ?ole Financial Planner can whip up and this is NOT an easy task, but Tyler went above and beyond to make it happen and with days to s
My Husband and I have been working with Tidemark for quite some time now. Tyler has been wonderful in guiding us with our investments as well as helping us set up a business simple IRA plan for our employees. From start to finish he has always been honest and given us amazing feedback. Earlier this year we lost a family member unexpectedly, and Tyler and his team were there to help us with all of the questions, meetings and making sure we had everything set up correctly. I would 10/10 recommend Tyler and th
The team at Tidemark is OUTSTANDING! We specifically work with Tyler who is very reliable, knowledgeable, always courteous, prompt in answering questions and explaining their answer in a way that is easy to understand. A complete Customer-centric company.
My husband and I recently met and spoke with Josh regarding our retirement planning, and we couldn't be more pleased with the experience. Josh explained everything in simple, easy-to-understand terms, which made the entire process much less daunting. We never felt pressured to make quick decisions or choose options we weren't comfortable with. Instead, Josh listened to our needs and wants, and crafted a plan that felt personalized and aligned with our goals. It was refreshing to work with someone who genuin
Tyler Abney is amazing! He's been my financial planner for about 15 years, and has always been available to meet with me. As a first time investor setting up a 403b, I had no idea what I was doing. Tyler walked me through step by step and made me feel so comfortable. After 15 years, my investments continue to grow and Tyler continues to help me plan for retirement in the future. Friends have thanked me for recommending Tyler to them. Whatever stage of retirement/investment planning you are in, Tyler a
Tyler Abney at Tidemark has done an incredible job with my account. Yes, he's making sure my accounts are in order and accruing, but what really makes me happy is how much he is interested in what I want out of the accounts. His concerns for what I want for me and my family go far beyond simply making more money on them to benefit himself. The hospitality and care is why I will not leave.
Frank Alvarez and his Team are outstanding experts. They are market knowledgeable and practice great communication. I appreciate their updates and insights as it helps me serve my clients with their real estate goals. I have recommended them in the past and will recommend them in the future without any hesitation. Furthermore Id like to point out that I find their communication easy to follow and understand. When you interview for a financial advisor next, make sure you have Frank and his Team on your list
My experiences with Tidemark Financial Partners have been exceptional. My husband and I began working with Tyler Abney in 2006. When Tidemark was established, many years later, we were confident that our finances were in good hands with the Tidemark team. I appreciate the knowledge and professionalism that I can depend on when I have financial decisions to make. My husband passed away two years ago, and these decisions are now mine to make. The availability of the Tidemark team is something I have depended
I highly recommend Tidemark and their associates, particularly Anthony McLean. I've been working and planning my financial future with him for over two years. He is very personable, knowledgeable and has expertise in multiple markets, saving strategies and financial planning. More importantly, Anthony has integrity and I believe he's more concerned about your investments and your financial future than making commissions and money for the organization. I will continue to utilize his services for many years t
I consider myself incredibly lucky to have found Tyler Abney to manage my financial portfolio! My previous experiences of working with financial advisors has been so intimidating and overwhelming, and since I've been working with Tyler over the past two years, he has helped me tremendously in overcoming my past trauma, and I am finally learning to become more empowered in the realm of my finances. Tyler is friendly, laid back, accessible, and also incredibly skilled in patience. He knows how to meet me wh
Tidemark Financial Partners has been handling my assets for many years, and I can say only good things about their service and professionalism. Most recently I have been working with financial planner Jared Redfield, who is exceeding all my expectations. He is proactive, cutting-edge informed, accessible, attentive, thorough, and most important for me, patient, because I am super busy and he is understanding when I lag getting back to him. In addition to my established retirement accounts that Jared over
Frank, Is very knowledgeable in all things Finance I myself am a Finance Manager but for corporate not financial services but Frank Alvarez is the best not only for his race but the fact he can help hispanics as well middle class like my mother who I help everyday he was there in explaining things to her for her to understand my mom my not be the wealthiest but she did very well now that shes retiring and Frank did the best to help her and now me he handles my accounts. Very good guy regardless of ethnicity
I am enjoying my retirement all due to the sage financial advise from Josh Stipch. He has guided me for several years and I recommend him to my family and friends. I love his forthright attitude and he listens to all my questions with a all sense of humor and high standards of professionalism.
A great company. Anthony McLean is my advisor and I find him to be extremely helpful and honest. Thankfully he takes the time to explain all types of investments, alway takes ti.e to take my calls. I couldn't ask for a better financial partner.
If you want sound financial advice, Tyler is your guy. I have recommended him to many, many friends and colleagues and all have been just as pleased as I have. Tyler is the real deal and certainly knows his stuff. I highly recommend him!
I wouldn't trust anyone else with my investments. Tyler has made my best interests his priority and I could not be happier with the results. We've referred him to many colleagues and friends and will continue doing so.
The Tidemark team exceeded my expectations in every aspect. Their personalized approach has been instrumental in helping me achieve my financial goals. Highly recommend!
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.