*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.*
2744 Del Rio Pl # 200
Davis, California 95618
Working with Matt for nearly 10 years has been an absolute pleasure. His expertise and attention to detail have consistently made navigating complex tax situations stress-free. Always responsive and professional, he goes above and beyond to ensure everything is handled efficiently. Highly recommend their services to anyone looking for a reliable and knowledgeable CPA!
I have had Matthew as my tax accountant for many years. He has always been clear, up to date, precise, and with very helpful advice. Matthew is thorough, honest, reliable, and very prompt in completing the work, and yet at a very reasonable fee. I fully trust his work and feel privileged to have had him on my side. I strongly recommend him. Thank you Matthew for your excellent work. Cheers, Yegi
Matthew is the most articulate, honest, always , and I do mean always - calm get it done right and get it done right the first time! I have never met anyone like him. He Is truly amazing ! He knows his stuff! There is never a mistake. God Bless him. I feel so fortunate to have him on my side. Thank you Matthew. Becky
I can't recommend Matthew enough. I have a small business and have had absolute nightmares with other highly recommended firms. I have paid inflated rates just to be a small cog in a huge machine and get terrible service. I was actually told by my last firm that my accountant "had no time to talk to me this year". Matthew actually takes the time to sit down with me, advise me about my business and save me money! He never seems too busy to help me. I just received my S-corp and personal extensions from
I SO agree with everything the positive reviewers have said here! Never patronizing, and full of memorable, wise advice, Mathew provides a gateway to clarity. His dazzlingly efficient use of technology accrues to the benefit of his clients. In a perfect world, everyone, especially small business owners,, should have access to such a good and talented advisor.
He?s been our accountant for years, when we owned our business & afterwards. We came with him when he started left the big firm and have never regretted it. Matthew has always given us excellent service & is extremely knowledgeable!
Matthew was rude and condescending to me. If you are a female looking for tax advise, I would not recommend hiring him.
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.