Valley Sierra Small Business Development Center

Valley Sierra Small Business Development Center

Reviews Summary

The Valley Sierra SBDC receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for its exceptional support in launching and growing businesses. Clients praise the knowledgeable, friendly consultants who provide invaluable guidance, free services, and practical tools. The workshops and coaching are highlighted as transformative, offering clarity, confidence, and actionable strategies. Many credit the SBDC with helping them overcome challenges, from startup basics to advanced growth. The organization is consistently described as a vital, trusted resource for entrepreneurs at any stage, with particular appreciation for its personalized, passionate approach.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
Startups

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

Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
Startups

Contact Information

Address

1625 I St

Modesto, California 95354

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM-5PM
Tuesday 8AM-5PM
Wednesday 8AM-5PM
Thursday 8AM-5PM
Friday 8-11:30AM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

As a recent client of SBCD, I can't begin to express my gratitude to my consultant and coach Rhonda Lowe, as well as everyone that assisted me over the last year. I would never have opened my new business, Peace of Mind Elder Care Navigators, without the guidance and support from SBDC. If you have a small business already and need some support and direction, or you have a dream of owning your own business, don't wait - call them today.

I am so incredibly grateful that I found the Valley Sierra SBDC! I had recently graduated with my MBA and had huge plans to purchase the property our company was leasing and make it into a eco resort near Yosemite. The down side, we had limited capital and very little finance experience. We leaned into the SBDC knowing they would be able to help us navigate the complicated process. After a few classes and presentations we were paired with consultant Nate Henderson to bring our dreams into reality. Comme

The Valley Sierra SBDC is amazing. Every workshop I've been to has been jam packed full of value; the consultants and coaches they have on staff are amazing and extremely passionate about what they do. I worked with Rhonda Lowe and Chris Carroll and they were both pivotal to me getting my business set up properly and my website functional. Also, if you're ?on the fence? about working with the SBDC, make the leap. Support our local SBDC- they need us entrepreneurs as much as we need them!

They have really helped me get my business off the ground running. And they help at every step - even the very beginning of just exploring the idea of going into business for yourself. I really cannot recommend Valley Sierra Small Business enough to those who are thinking of or have a small business.

For many entrepreneurs, especially starting out, we don't know what we don't know. That is where the real value of SBDC shines. With expert business advisors they are able to meet any of us wherever we are at on the pathway to start or grow our business. I have used it for marketing assistance and learning to be a better professional presenter. I even had help with writing my book. I encourage anyone who wants to start or grow their business with less overwhelm to take advantage of SBDC services.

Valley Sierra SBDC helped guide me through the steps needed to get my business up and running. While I already had a lot of pieces of the puzzle in motion, Rhonda helped by giving me the tools necessary to get organized and ready to successfully begin. The meetings she held with me gave me accountability, feedback, and more resources when I needed them. Thank you so much for providing these amazing (and free!) services to entrepreneurs like me!

Valley Sierra SBDC is a game-changer for small businesses! The team, especially expert consultant Stacy, is incredible. Stacy's guidance was instrumental in getting to know more about starting a business? she's a rock star! Dr. Pablo Paredes' Business Boot Camp is a must-attend for beginners. His passion and expertise shine through, offering a comprehensive toolkit for success. The sense of community at Valley Sierra SBDC is unmatched. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned entrepreneur, this place is a gem

The Valley Sierra SBDC has helped hundreds of companies, including mine. They provided assistance in better use of social media platforms, posts, and timing, and helped me to develop a strategy to grow my followers. They seriously are "the best kept business secret" in our region. Whether you're a start-up, existing, or even thinking of selling your business, these are you go-to folks. And don't think 'no-cost' means the consulting services aren't top quality. This is a team of expert consultants giving bac

I am so grateful to have found this service. I received business consulting services from Rhonda and she was personable, knowledgeable and helpful. From general business information to specific day to day operations guidance, the knowledge that she shared helped me to gain confidence and move foward.

The staff at Valley Sierra SBDC are super friendly and super helpful. I've received a lot of great guidance that has helped me move my business forward in several ways. I've used the SBDC for years in helping with different aspects of my business and I'm never let down. I recommend the VSSBDC to all my friends who are fellow small business owners.

Each time I go to the workshops, I come back feeling more empowered to build my business. The knowledge and experience that was shared yesterday was amazing! Amy made us comfortable and welcomed and Claudia shared great insights into ways to improve and strengthen our skills. It was an awesome workshop! Thank you again for helping us in our journey!

WOW! I can not say enough good things about Valley Sierra SBDC! Tiffany's social media workshops and Haley's business coaching have been incredible for my business. Thank you so much for your free services and helping me grow my business!

I started my business not knowing what it entailed, but Valley Sierra SBDC has been helping me throughout the entire process. They genuinely care to help businesses succeed. If they don't know the answer to something will try to find the answer. Thank you for all of your help and continued support!

WOW. The team at Valley Sierra Small Biz Dev. Center has been an incredible asset and resource to our company. Their team is quick to respond and has come through to help us on countless occasions. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for the work you do to support our business and community as a whole.

Amy and Tim have been extremely helpful, submitted plans with the guidance of Tim and VSBDC, we will see what the next step is however I am confident with them on my side. Thank you and we look forward to the continued collaboration with VSBDC.

Starting a business is not easy. Thankfully, I've had the support of the SDBC for most of my journey. I highly recommend taking advantage of their services. Now, take your great idea and get out and Face the Wild. You can do it! And, the SBDC will be there to help.

I have so much more courage starting a business knowing I have Valley Sierra Small Business Development to turn to for questions, coaching and educational growth. Thank you so much.

Absolutely awesome organization. They helped me launch my business and have been there every step of the way.

My business has benefited so much thanks to this program.

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.