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Tuition Solutions Now. Stephen Shapiro CFP

Tuition Solutions Now. Stephen Shapiro CFP

Reviews Summary

The reviews consistently praise the consultant's deep expertise in college financial planning, particularly with FAFSA and aid strategies. Many highlight how his guidance saved families significant money while reducing stress. His patience, clarity, and willingness to answer questions—even outside sessions—are frequently mentioned. Multiple reviewers emphasize starting early with his services. Free seminars and tailored advice for diverse family needs are also commended. The overwhelming sentiment is that his knowledge is invaluable, with strong recommendations for anyone navigating college financing.

About This Listing

Tax Planning
Budgeting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Educational Institutions
Non-profits

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

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.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Tax Planning
Budgeting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Educational Institutions
Non-profits

Contact Information

Address

2425 Porter St # 3

Soquel, California 95073

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-4PM
Tuesday 9AM-4PM
Wednesday 9AM-4PM
Thursday 9AM-4PM
Friday 9AM-12PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Our family has worked with Steve for the past three years, he has helped us tremendously! Steve knows it all, keeps himself up-to-date on the ever changing and complex information that is a necessity for navigating the college planning process from the Dream to fruition. Steve is also a wonder at communication. I met Steve taking a class held through Cabrillo, he impressed me with his knowledge and understanding. Steve has held my hand through with the prep, FAFSA and Grant application processes for both o

Working with Steve on a financial plan for college has been so worth it. Steve has saved us thousands of dollars, but has also saved us from the heartache I see so many other families experiencing, of having a child work hard to get accepted to their dream school, only to find out later that they can't afford to pay for it and have to decline the offer. I recommend anyone with a middle school or high school student (or a child of any age) consult with him as early as possible to understand the process of f

Steve has expert knowledge about all things related to financing college. After attending one of his college finance seminars at the high school, I met with him via Zoom to ask specific questions. He was an amazing help to us in filling out the FAFSA form. I had a couple additional questions while I was filling out the form and he consulted with me via phone. He is patient, wise, and I highly recommend his services.

Steve is an unparalleled expert in the realm of college savings planning, especially for parents looking to navigate this crucial journey. As a business owner myself, I approached Steve with a set of unique, complex questions regarding how best to save for my children's education. Not only did he address all my concerns with clarity and insight, but he also crafted a comprehensive, tailored strategy that suited both my financial situation and my goals for my kids' futures. His knowledge and expertise in co

Our community is so lucky to have Steve's knowledge and generosity. He offers many free informative workshops throughout the year, and I learned so much from our session. Don't wait too long to reach out like I did- start early!

Steve was super helpful during our short consultation. He shared important resources with us and was very knowledgeable about the intricacies of FAFSA, sharing some fine points we hadn't even considered. Highly recommended!

I feel incredibly lucky to have found Tuition Solutions. Steve's smart, wise and kind advice has literally saved me tens of thousands of dollars in college tuition for both my kids. I can't recommend him highly enough!

Steve is amazing, and I highly recommend him - he is worth every penny. He is extremely knowledgeable and helpful, patient and thorough. And don't wait like I did, start early!

Steve Shapiro provides an excellent service that is well worth the money. He advised our family on two different students going to college, each very different from one another, with very different needs. He de-mystified the college financial aide process, and took a lot of the stress out of what would have otherwise been a very stressful process. And, the end result is that both my children got to go to the colleges they were most excited about, with enough aid to make it work. Steve understands all these

I am new to all of this college stuff. My son is a senior and we are in go mode with college applications and financial planning. Stephen was and is so very helpful and knows so much about the ins and outs of all of it. He is kind, takes his time and makes sure you understand. I am so grateful to him and all he did to help. I highly recommend him!

As a newcomer to the daunting world of college financing, I was completely overwhelmed. Stephen Shapiro was my savior. I cannot sing his praises enough. There has to be a special place in heaven for people like him. Thanks to his competent, knowledgable and experienced insight, I got a great education on how to pay for college. He even answered my impromtu telephone calls and emails! He gives free seminars too. I highly recommend his services for anyone with a child going off to college. There is a LOT to l

Steve was generous with his time and very helpful and had some really useful knowledge about the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

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.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

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.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

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.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

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.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

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.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

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.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

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.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

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.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

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.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

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.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

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.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

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.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

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.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

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.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

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.

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