*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.*
3220 SW 33rd Rd
Ocala, Florida 34474
Zinnia is absolutely the best. What a treasure for the good people of Florida to have such a dedicated financial team that exudes trust and integrity. I have personally worked with Charisse for over a decade and know that her expertise is unparalleled in the financial services industry. 5 stars is not enough!
The Zinnia staff take the time needed to really get to know people they are working with. They ask questions, listen to what people need/want, and help develop a portfolio that is perfect for you. We have been very pleased with our business with Zinnia and have recommended several people to them.
We have been a client of Zinnia Wealth for two years and we have nothing but great things to say about Charrisse and her whole staff. Any time we need suggestions about our account, they were there to help us through it. We just got done with our review and we felt confident on all the suggestions she gave us.
I just complete my one-year review with Charisse and Zinnia Wealth Management, and I must say I am very impressed. During our initial consultation and decision-making meetings a year ago, Charisse went into our options in great detail. Over the past year our chosen mix of annuities and stocks have performed exactly as expected. Moreso, our recent review was an opportunity to revisit last year?s decisions and make a few changes. With higher inflation, rising interest rates and upcoming market volatility
Contacted Charisse at Zinnia Wealth a few years before my pending retirement. She helped us with what we were doing correctly and ways to improve our investment options prior to retirement. She and her staff were patient for years, ?you're good to go for now, lets talk when you pull the trigger and we'll get something really good going for you and Bonnie?. Early in retirement 3 years ago she set up a comprehensive income plan that is and continues to work out well. Two very critical points, she assis
This business is a scam. She exercises false advertising techniques. She will not talk to you unless you have a minimum of $250,000 available to open an account. This is called wealth management. Hence, you are already wealthy and seek help managing said wealth. The advertising on Google, the website and YouTube describes the business as offering financial planning services. People certified as financial planners that you can hire to assess your personal situation and advise a strategy to accomplish your go
I am very impressed with Charisse and Zinnia Wealth Management. She is down to earth and competent. Our portfolio has done well since we have been with Zinnia. We have been with them for three years.
My wife contacted Zinnia to set an appointment with Charisse and was told she could not meet for 17 days. When we arrived we were told Charisse could not meet but an assistant would meet with us. Charisse didn't have the professional courtesy to contact us to reschedule our appointment. Charisse had sold my wife an annuity with Security Benefit and had recommended the money be split between two funds, neither of which allowed any changes in the first five years. One of the funds Charisse selected was a 5 yr
I was introduced to Charisse as a financial planner though friends. I was particularly impressed with her careful review of my financial wants and needs. She followed that with a knowledgeable, thoughtful and totally non-pressure presentation of services she could offer me. Two years ago I purchased a long-term-health/life insurance annuity from her, and am now looking forward working with her again. In any transaction, trust is a big factor, and for me, she meets factor that in spades.
For me choosing Zinnia Wealth Management to manage my money was easy. I interviewed 3 different Financial Services Firms and Charisse at Zinnia was someone I could relate to. She has a passion for her business and a genuine sincerity in the way she presented her plans for my Financial Success. In addition to that she is an Elite athlete and knows how to compete.That is a person I want in my Corner!!!
Just finished meeting with Charisse and it was the best advisor/client discussion I have ever had. Charisse is a good listener and is very competent!
It has been nearly 2 years since my wife and I attended a luncheon seminar given by Charisse and Shawn. We had been to a few of these in the past given by other individuals and this one was very different. In the past we left these seminars with a feeling that we were being pressured to make decisions that we were not ready to make at that time. The speakers always wanted forms filled out and contact information to reach you for follow up and more information than we wanted to share at that time. With Chari
First, they never returned our call. Then, when I was finally able to make an appointment they had to reschedule because they "overlapped" appointments. I canceled completely and never rescheduled.
Charisse and the team at Zinnia are amazing you won't be disappointed make you feel so comfortable with a stressful decision
I had some problems initially but Charisse called me back and resolved all the issues. Good company, I trust them.
Fun Valentine's Day with Zinnia Wealth Team!
Very trustworthy and knowledgeable
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.