*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.*
370 N Westlake Blvd Suite 230
Westlake Village, California 91362
Urban IT is incredibly helpful and professional! Brian and his team have been servicing my office for 8 years now and have always exceeded my expectations. Our IT has never run more smoothly. Thank you guys!
Urban IT is the best computer repair place I have ever dealt with. They are true professionals and know what they are doing. I run a small accounting firm ? 5 PCs, 2 Mac, and a server. When my server failed to access the Internet after a power outage, I called the nearest computer repair shop, Urban IT, and spoke to Brian. He immediately dispatched one of the technicians who traced the problem to a bad network card. Brian was able to install another network card, and got me running shortly afterwards.
I want to commend Kevin for coming to my office at the Warner Center and fixing my computer after it ran out of disk space. I am a life insurance agent who is very dependent on my Windows computer for documentation and emails. I called Urban IT, explained that it was an emergency, and had them send a tech out. Kevin, quickly diagnosed the issue, was able to free-up some disk space, cloned the hard drive, and installed a much bigger and faster memory-based disk drive. I appreciate the quick response and
I highly recommend Urban IT for computer support, especially when it comes to law firms. They know the legal lingo and it was easy for me to communicate with them. I have had other IT companies support my law firm in but when it came to complex issues with my server, they were not able to resolve the issues of poor performance, and unexplained crashes of my Legal Solutions program. Urban IT was recommended to me by another law firm and although they are based in Calabasas and we are located in L.A., Nat
I highly recommend Urban IT for their quick response and resolution of my Internet issue ? I was unable to access the Internet. I found Urban IT when I did a Google search and noticed their 5 star reviews. After calling them and explaining that I restarted my computer, as well as the Spectrum modem, I still had no Internet service. A tech came to my office, and in less than 15 min, diagnosed the problem as caused by a virus. After the virus and other spyware were removed, I was able to browse the Interne
I have been working with Nate, Kevin, and others for many years and have been extremely pleased with their expertise, efficiency, and accessibility. They have had to troubleshoot a variety of problems over the years (most recently, my trying to download a photo off Google Drive resulted in the blue screen of death for reasons that will never be known), and have saved my bacon many, many times. Highly recommended.
Nate help me out with setting up my new computer and server. I have an accounting firm and all my data is very sensitive and thanks to urban IT it is also now very secure, thanks guys!
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.