*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.*
1517 Stowell, C St SUITE A
Santa Maria, CA 93458
Don't recommend, we were helped by the man at the front desk to complete my partners taxes. After I had mentioned the mistakes on the taxes he didn't offer to fix and didn't seem knowledgeable when asked why he had claimed what he did on the tax forms. We were still charged after we told him to hold off. Had expected a little more with the many high reviews on google.
I had high hopes for this place, as I was referred to by a friend. The customer service was okay however they didn't pay attention to details and spelled my first and last name wrong on my paperwork. Idk how when I provided my ID. Then charged me a lot. It didn't feel legitimate to be honest and once I received my paperwork and saw the misspellings I knew that I was right. When I followed up for assistance it took a week to be helped I was lied to saying it was corrected and it wasn't then my email was bloc
First time here, Carlos did an amazing job! Super friendly staff as well. Fast and easy!
This is the second time I've done my taxes here and my dad has been doing his for years which is the one who recommended me. Cohinda and her staff are really helpful and friendly to work with
I've been coming to Cohinda and her staff for the past three years to do my taxes and I can honestly say they make you feel like family. Not only is it a warm and inviting environment but her friendly staff answers any and every question you may have. I've never had any problems or issues with my taxes and she makes it so easy for me, as easy as walking in and out. I will continue to come here for many more years to come.
Great place to get quality and very friendly helping you get your job done. Looking forward to keep on coming back for many years to get help
Great customer service! You receive your tax return fast if no complications! I have been filling my tax returns there for 4 years.
She was nice at first but yells through the phone and charges to much for taxes and then gives you little money back she was going to give me back 1000 while this nicer lady charged me 80 and gave me back 3000. She cheats her people to who don't know. Way to support the rasa. All she cares about is her money not helping you and it shows.
Been coming here for the last 3+ years. Cohinda is very helpful. Fast and friendly service.
They were very helpful and took the time to answer and explain anything I wasn't sure about. Very helpful and professional. Definitely recommended!
Very professional! High quality services. Staff was great. I highly recommend them?
Ive been filing my taxes here year by year had no complications during the process their staff are friendly and treat you with professionalism
They do not file state Tax returns correctly. Had to amend elsewhere. They're probably doing the same for everyone else here. I would not recommend.
Very happy came in was help right away and was out quick I recommend
Very good service I highly recommended it ????
Amazing customer service!!!!!! Definitely recommend for all your taxes needs.
Yells at customers and doesn't want to complete her job. Very unprofessional.
Good place and they file fast !! Recommend
Great service ! Definitely recommend ????
Great service to do your files here
Great Service very knowledgeable!
Nice and helpful service.!
Awful customer service !! Yelling at customers is absolutely wrong.
Friendly and professional work :)
Best place in town!!
It's pretty chill here
(Translated by Google) Very bad service, I went to do my taxes and the total that they were going to pay me did not arrive, I went and complained like 4 times and they told me that it is in process, I went the last time to ask and only the gentleman who was there called by phone and gave me a phone number to ask why my payment is taking so long and they told me that the entire amount was not declared and the call arrived in less than 2 minutes, that man with a pimply face who was in that place charged me 60
(Translated by Google) Hello everyone and the community of Santa Maria and the surrounding area, I came to this town to get my taxis, they treated me wonderfully, they answered all my questions and doubts, I felt very confident that I chose a safe place for my taxis, I truly recommend it without any problem (Original) Hola a todos y la comunidad de santa Mar?a y los alrededores , vine hacer mis taxis a esta localidad , me atendieron de maravilla, contestaron todas mis preguntas y dudas , me sent? muy confi
(Translated by Google) Very bad experience, and very bad service for an estimate he charged me $80 and didn't let me leave until I paid. I do not recommend this place. (Original) Muy mala experiencia, y muy mal servicio por una estimaci?n me cobro $80 y no me dejo salir hasta que pague. No les recomiendo este lugar.
(Translated by Google) They help me very well at this office. I highly recommend them. They do my taxes right here. (Original) Me ayudan muy bien en esta oficina. Los recomiendo mucho. Aqu? si hacen bien los taxes
(Translated by Google) Very good service ?? thanks Usa Tax Insurance (Original) Muy buen servicio ?? gracias Usa Tax Insurance
(Translated by Google) They are excellent preparers when it comes to doing taxes. I am very satisfied with your service. (Original) Son excelentes preparadores a la hora de hacer los impuestos. Estoy muy satisfecho con su servicio.
(Translated by Google) Very good service, friendly, I recommend them. (Original) Muy vuen servicio amables selos recomiendo
(Translated by Google) I recommend doing your taxes at this office, they have very good treatment. (Original) Les recomiendo hacer los taxes en esta oficina tienen muy buen trato
(Translated by Google) Very good at making taxis and friendly, they serve you quickly (Original) Muy buenos para hacer taxis y amables te atiende rapido
(Translated by Google) A service, I recommend everyone to come and visit them. (Original) Un servicio , les recomiendo a todos para ke vengan a visitarlos.
(Translated by Google) The service was excellent (Original) El servicio fue excelente
(Translated by Google) Well they come (Original) Pues vien
(Translated by Google) Come prepare your tax. The best service! (Original) Vengan a preparar su impuesto. El mejor servicio!
(Translated by Google) Very good service, recommended (Original) Muy buen servicio, recomendable
(Translated by Google) Very good service (Original) Muy buen servicio
(Translated by Google) Alright. Very professional (Original) Esta bien. Muy profesionales
(Translated by Google) Very good work (Original) Muy bien trabajo
(Translated by Google) Very professional, and very simple. (Original) Muy profesional, y muy sencilla.
(Translated by Google) I recommend using it, thank you for your kindness. (Original) Recomiendo usa gracias por su amabilidad
(Translated by Google) Excellent service and attention (Original) Exelente servicio y atencion
(Translated by Google) I recommend they are good preparers (Original) Les recomiendo son buenos preparadores
(Translated by Google) Excellent service (Original) Excelente servicio
(Translated by Google) I like (Original) Me gusta
(Translated by Google) Excellent service (Original) Exelente servicio
(Translated by Google) Good job. (Original) Buen trabajo.
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.