*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.*
942 E Chapman Ave
Orange, California 92866
Brian and his team handle all of our company's bookkeeping and taxes, we have millions of dollars in gross revenue every year, several different bank accounts (trust accounts, etc...) hundreds of transactions a month, and they do an incredible job of keeping track of everything and keeping our books balanced. They are extremely responsive and detail oriented, if there is ever an issue, they are great communicators until we get things figures out. I would highly recommend them to a business of any size tha
I worked with Alex for the first time this year and had a phenomenal experience. I had sold a home, have an out-of-state rental property, and a few other nuances to my taxes and Alex not only answered all of my questions but made the entire process incredibly smooth. Professional, personable, knowledgable and supportive. Absolutely recommend working with Alex whether you have 'simple' taxes or more complex tax needs!
I am very grateful to Brian Winter. He has been so helpful to my business and to me personally with regard to getting my taxes done professionally and swiftly when I am crunched for time. I plan to continue working with Winter and Lozano for years to come.
Avoid this place at all costs. I hired Nicholas in December to help me with payroll for my S-corp and prepare my tax return, but I only just found out last week that he did not do the payroll paperwork at all and missed the deadline. And when I tried to ask him about it, he did not respond to my first couple of emails and phone calls and only when I called him the 3rd time did he admit that he didn't do it. I would never have found out about that if I didn't ask. He didn't even apologize or give an explanat
Before using Winter Lozano CPAs to do my personal taxes, I was using one of those online DIY tax preparation solutions. Five years later, I don't know why I didn't make the switch soon. They ask the right questions and show me the best options on how to file my taxes. Even with having multiple W2s, 1099 forms, and so on, they got me covered.
Brian has been our accountant for about 5yrs. He?s incredible. The best accountant we?ve ever had. He?s really knowledgeable and has a great sense of humor... which helps when you?re stressed out getting your taxes done haha
Great place to get your taxes done, as well as bookkeeping, business planning, and incorporating. Brian is really smart and a great financial person to have on your team!
Brian is amazing. I was referred to him from a friend. Extremely knowledgeable and experienced. Once you go to them you wont use anyone else!
One of the best accounting firms in So Cal.Been a client for over 20 years
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.