{"id":25,"date":"2026-10-16T09:31:20","date_gmt":"2026-10-16T09:31:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/clearway-guide-6\/"},"modified":"2026-10-27T06:36:39","modified_gmt":"2026-10-27T06:36:39","slug":"clearway-guide-6","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/clearway-guide-6\/","title":{"rendered":"What Should You Ask When Meeting a U.S. CPA for the First Time?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"25\" class=\"elementor elementor-25\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-31542c0 cw-article-document cw-article-lang-zh e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"31542c0\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2c2880f cw-article-title elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2c2880f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What Should You Ask When Meeting a U.S. CPA for the First Time?<\/h1>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7a9a38b cw-article-excerpt elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7a9a38b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>CPAs vary widely in focus. These questions make the first call far more useful.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1839053 cw-article-body e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"1839053\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-06bee5e cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"06bee5e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>Who this is for:<\/strong> International students, new immigrants, and work visa holders filing U.S. taxes for the first time, as well as entrepreneurs who have just started a company.<br><strong>Core principle:<\/strong> \u627e CPA \u4e0d\u662f&#8221;\u627e\u4e2a\u4eba\u5e2e\u6211\u586b\u8868&#8221;\uff0c\u800c\u662f\u627e\u4e00\u4e2a<strong>understands your status, understands your cross-border circumstances, and can work with you over the long term.<\/strong>Preparing questions before the meeting can save you considerable money and trouble.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c3a57d2 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c3a57d2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">1. First Understand the Difference Between a CPA, an EA, and a Tax Preparer<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7ee861e cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7ee861e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>In the United States, there are broadly three types of people who can help you file taxes:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3e74407 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3e74407\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li><strong>CPA<\/strong><strong>(Certified Public Accountant):<\/strong> Licensed by a state board of accountancy, a CPA can handle more complex matters such as tax returns, audits, and financial planning, and can represent you before the IRS.<\/li><li><strong>EA<\/strong><strong>(<\/strong><strong>Enrolled Agent<\/strong><strong>):<\/strong> Authorized directly by the IRS, an EA specializes in taxation and can also represent you before the IRS. Many EAs have extensive experience with individual and small-business returns, and their fees are often lower than those of CPAs.<\/li><li><strong>Other tax preparers:<\/strong> They only need an IRS-issued Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) to prepare tax returns for a fee, making this the category with the lowest qualification threshold.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0afe3de cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"0afe3de\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>If your situation is straightforward, an EA or experienced tax preparer may be enough. If it involves cross-border income, company structure, or a change of immigration status, look for a CPA or EA with relevant experience.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0d90c81 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"0d90c81\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">2. Prepare Before the Meeting<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7672143 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7672143\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>An initial consultation is often free or inexpensive, but time is limited. Preparing the following information in advance will make the discussion much more efficient:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-cceb5bd cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"cceb5bd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li>Your visa type, the date you first entered the United States, and the number of days you spent in the United States each year<\/li><li>Income sources: U.S. wages (W-2), freelance income (1099), scholarships, investment income, income in China, and so on<\/li><li>Whether you have bank accounts, investments, or property outside the United States<\/li><li>Whether you have formed a company and, if so, what type<\/li><li>Whether you have filed U.S. taxes in previous years or received any letters from the IRS<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6656226 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6656226\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">3. Questions About Qualifications and Experience<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e327429 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e327429\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>1. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>Which state issued your license, and is it current?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>You can verify a CPA's license on the official website of the relevant state board of accountancy. EA credentials can also be checked in the IRS public directory. A legitimate professional will not mind being verified.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a46368c cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a46368c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>2. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>Have you worked with clients in situations similar to mine?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>This is the most important question. The tax situations of international students, H-1B holders, and new green card holders differ considerably from those of typical U.S. taxpayers. You can ask specifically:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-678b77c cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"678b77c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li>&#8220;\u60a8\u5904\u7406\u8fc7\u975e\u5c45\u6c11\u5916\u56fd\u4eba\uff08Nonresident Alien\uff09\u7684\u62a5\u7a0e\u5417\uff1f&#8221;<\/li><li>&#8220;\u60a8\u719f\u6089\u4e2d\u7f8e\u7a0e\u6536\u534f\u5b9a\u5417\uff1f&#8221;<\/li><li>&#8220;\u60a8\u5904\u7406\u8fc7\u4ece\u975e\u5c45\u6c11\u8f6c\u4e3a\u5c45\u6c11\u7eb3\u7a0e\u4eba\u90a3\u4e00\u5e74\u7684\u62a5\u7a0e\u5417\uff1f&#8221;<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c7fccf4 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c7fccf4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>3. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>If the<\/strong><strong> IRS <\/strong><strong>sends a letter or conducts an examination, can you represent me?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>CPAs and EAs can; ordinary tax preparers generally cannot. This matters greatly when a problem arises.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a39f24b cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"a39f24b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">4. Questions About Your Tax Status<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5cb44f4 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5cb44f4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>For many new immigrants, the easiest place to make a mistake is the very first step:<strong>What kind of taxpayer am I?<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f2d4c82 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f2d4c82\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>4. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>Based on my visa and days of presence, am I a resident or nonresident taxpayer?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>\u7f8e\u56fd\u7a0e\u6cd5\u4e0a\u7684&#8221;\u5c45\u6c11&#8221;\u548c\u79fb\u6c11\u8eab\u4efd\u4e0a\u7684&#8221;\u5c45\u6c11&#8221;\u4e0d\u662f\u4e00\u56de\u4e8b\u3002\u6301 F-1 \u6216 J-1 \u7684\u5b66\u751f\uff0c\u524d\u51e0\u5e74\u901a\u5e38\u6309\u975e\u5c45\u6c11\u62a5\u7a0e\uff0c\u4f7f\u7528\u7684\u8868\u683c\u548c\u53ef\u4eab\u53d7\u7684\u6263\u9664\u90fd\u4e0d\u540c\u3002\u7528\u9519\u8868\u683c\u662f\u6700\u5e38\u89c1\u7684\u9519\u8bef\u4e4b\u4e00\u3002<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fa098fa cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"fa098fa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>5. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>Do I need to report foreign accounts and assets?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>If you are a U.S. tax resident and the combined balance of your foreign financial accounts exceeds $10,000 at any point during the year, you generally need to file a Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts report (FBAR). Other foreign-asset reporting forms may also apply. Penalties for failing to report can far exceed the tax itself.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f0526f7 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f0526f7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>6. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>Do I need to report large transfers or gifts from family in China?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>U.S. tax residents who receive gifts above a certain amount from foreign individuals generally need to file an information return. Tax is generally not due, but failure to report can lead to penalties.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b51e957 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b51e957\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>7. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>Which provisions of the U.S.\u2013China tax treaty apply to me?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>For example, some students' and scholars' scholarships or certain other income may qualify for tax exemption under the treaty. A professional needs to assess this based on your specific circumstances.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2b1dd2e cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2b1dd2e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">5. Questions About Fees and How the Service Works<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-cf4a2a5 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"cf4a2a5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>8. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>How do you charge, and what does the fee include?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>Common pricing models include fees per return, hourly billing, and annual packages. Ask whether state returns, foreign-asset reports, and handling IRS letters cost extra.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-74519b1 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"74519b1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>9. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>What documents do you need from me, and what are the deadlines?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>The individual tax filing deadline is usually April 15. A good CPA will provide a clear document checklist and timetable.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-17778e9 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"17778e9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>10. &#8220;<\/strong><strong>How can I contact you with questions, and how soon will you respond?<\/strong><strong>&#8220;<\/strong><br>Tax season is extremely busy. Understanding communication methods and response times in advance can help you avoid being unable to reach someone at a critical moment.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-57ddc53 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"57ddc53\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">6. Be Alert to These Warning Signs<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c3d738a cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c3d738a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The IRS has long warned taxpayers about all of the following:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6068a67 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6068a67\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li class=\" translation-block\"><strong>Charging a percentage of your refund:<\/strong> This can encourage false deduction claims, and you are responsible for the outcome.<\/li><li class=\" translation-block\"><strong>Promising<\/strong><strong> \"<\/strong><strong>a guaranteed refund<\/strong><strong>\"<\/strong><strong> or<\/strong><strong> \"<\/strong><strong>a larger refund than anyone else<\/strong><strong>\"<\/strong><strong>:<\/strong> Your refund depends on your actual circumstances, not on tricks.<\/li><li class=\" translation-block\"><strong>Refusing to sign the return or provide a<\/strong><strong> PTIN<\/strong><strong>:<\/strong> Paid preparers are legally required to sign and enter their own PTIN.<\/li><li class=\" translation-block\"><strong>Asking you to sign a blank or incomplete return:<\/strong> Review every item carefully before signing.<\/li><li class=\" translation-block\"><strong>Asking for your refund to be paid into their account:<\/strong> Your refund should go to your own account.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-73e7724 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"73e7724\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Remember,<strong>regardless of who prepares your return, you bear ultimate legal responsibility for its contents.<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1e44cce cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1e44cce\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">7. A Question Checklist You Can Take With You<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c568df3 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c568df3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ol><li>Which state issued your license, and where can I look it up?<\/li><li>Have you worked with clients whose status is similar to mine?<\/li><li>If the IRS sends a letter, can you represent me?<\/li><li>Am I a resident or nonresident taxpayer this year?<\/li><li>Do I need to report foreign accounts and assets?<\/li><li>Do I need to report transfers or gifts from family in China?<\/li><li>Which provisions of the U.S.\u2013China tax treaty apply to me?<\/li><li>How do you charge, and which services cost extra?<\/li><li>What documents should I prepare, and what are the deadlines?<\/li><li>How can I contact you with questions, and how soon will you respond?<\/li><\/ol>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ec4dc66 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ec4dc66\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\" translation-block\"><em>This article provides general information and does not constitute tax or legal advice. For your specific tax status, reporting obligations, and tax treatment, follow guidance from a licensed<\/em><em> CPA<\/em><em>, <\/em><em>EA <\/em><em>or the<\/em><em> IRS<\/em><em>.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3c6e351 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3c6e351\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Looking for Your First CPA and Unsure Where to Start? Contact Clearway<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-843a430 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"843a430\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Tax questions are connected to immigration status, income, foreign assets, and company structure. Many people cannot clearly explain their situation at their first CPA meeting, or pay for a consultation only to discover that the professional is unfamiliar with cross-border taxation.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bd6970c cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"bd6970c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\" translation-block\">Clearway focuses on planning and coordination for your arrival in the U.S. We can help you:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-391ec4b cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"391ec4b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li><strong>Clarify your situation in advance:<\/strong> Help you organize your visa status, income sources, foreign accounts, and other information clearly so the first consultation gets straight to what matters.<\/li><li><strong>Connect with suitable professionals:<\/strong> Based on your status and needs, help connect you with licensed CPAs or EAs familiar with cross-border taxation.<\/li><li><strong>Keep track of key dates:<\/strong> Remind you about document preparation and deadlines during tax season to avoid a last-minute scramble.<\/li><li><strong>Flag common pitfalls:<\/strong> \u5e2e\u4f60\u8bc6\u522b&#8221;\u4fdd\u8bc1\u9000\u7a0e&#8221;\u201d\u6309\u9000\u7a0e\u6bd4\u4f8b\u6536\u8d39&#8221;\u7b49\u5e38\u89c1\u9677\u9631\u3002<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-810f021 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"810f021\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>Clearway: A Clearer Path to the United States.<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bfa2101 cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"bfa2101\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><em>Clearway provides arrival planning and coordination of everyday affairs, not immigration legal services, legal advice, or tax advice. For questions about tax status, tax filings, and visa status, consult a licensed<\/em><em> CPA<\/em><em>,<\/em><em>EA<\/em><em>, lawyer, or your school's international student office.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-245ea5e cw-article-block elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"245ea5e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>\u8054\u7cfb\u4eba\uff1aClearway Support Team<\/p><div class=\"cw-native-richtext\">\u7535\u5b50\u90ae\u4ef6\u5730\u5740\uff1ayuchen.consulting@gmail.com<\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>CPAs vary widely in focus. These questions make the first call far more useful.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"elementor_canvas","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_cw_guide":"1","_cw_article_key":5,"_cw_title_en":"What Should You Ask When Meeting a U.S. CPA for the First Time?","_cw_excerpt_en":"CPAs vary widely in focus. These questions make the first call far more useful.","_cw_body_en":"Who this is for: International students, new immigrants, and work visa holders filing U.S. taxes for the first time, as well as entrepreneurs who have just started a company.\nCore principle: Finding a CPA is not just finding someone to fill out forms. It means finding a professional partner who understands your status, understands your cross-border circumstances, and can work with you over the long term. Preparing questions before the meeting can save you considerable money and trouble.\n1. First Understand the Difference Between a CPA, an EA, and a Tax Preparer\nIn the United States, there are broadly three types of people who can help you file taxes:\nCPA (Certified Public Accountant): Licensed by a state board of accountancy, a CPA can handle more complex matters such as tax returns, audits, and financial planning, and can represent you before the IRS.\nEA (Enrolled Agent): Authorized directly by the IRS, an EA specializes in taxation and can also represent you before the IRS. Many EAs have extensive experience with individual and small-business returns, and their fees are often lower than those of CPAs.\nOther tax preparers: They only need an IRS-issued Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) to prepare tax returns for a fee, making this the category with the lowest qualification threshold.\nIf your situation is straightforward, an EA or experienced tax preparer may be enough. If it involves cross-border income, company structure, or a change of immigration status, look for a CPA or EA with relevant experience.\n2. Prepare Before the Meeting\nAn initial consultation is often free or inexpensive, but time is limited. Preparing the following information in advance will make the discussion much more efficient:\nYour visa type, the date you first entered the United States, and the number of days you spent in the United States each year\nIncome sources: U.S. wages (W-2), freelance income (1099), scholarships, investment income, income in China, and so on\nWhether you have bank accounts, investments, or property outside the United States\nWhether you have formed a company and, if so, what type\nWhether you have filed U.S. taxes in previous years or received any letters from the IRS\n3. Questions About Qualifications and Experience\n1. \"Which state issued your license, and is it current?\"\nYou can verify a CPA's license on the official website of the relevant state board of accountancy. EA credentials can also be checked in the IRS public directory. A legitimate professional will not mind being verified.\n2. \"Have you worked with clients in situations similar to mine?\"\nThis is the most important question. The tax situations of international students, H-1B holders, and new green card holders differ considerably from those of typical U.S. taxpayers. You can ask specifically:\n\"Have you prepared tax returns for nonresident aliens?\"\n\"Are you familiar with the U.S.\u2013China tax treaty?\"\n\"Have you handled returns for the year someone changed from a nonresident to a resident taxpayer?\"\n3. \"If the IRS sends a letter or conducts an examination, can you represent me?\"\nCPAs and EAs can; ordinary tax preparers generally cannot. This matters greatly when a problem arises.\n4. Questions About Your Tax Status\nFor many new immigrants, the easiest place to make a mistake is the very first step: What kind of taxpayer am I?\n4. \"Based on my visa and days of presence, am I a resident or nonresident taxpayer?\"\nResidency under U.S. tax law is different from immigration residency. Students holding F-1 or J-1 visas usually file as nonresidents during their first several years, using different forms and qualifying for different deductions. Using the wrong form is one of the most common mistakes.\n5. \"Do I need to report foreign accounts and assets?\"\nIf you are a U.S. tax resident and the combined balance of your foreign financial accounts exceeds $10,000 at any point during the year, you generally need to file a Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts report (FBAR). Other foreign-asset reporting forms may also apply. Penalties for failing to report can far exceed the tax itself.\n6. \"Do I need to report large transfers or gifts from family in China?\"\nU.S. tax residents who receive gifts above a certain amount from foreign individuals generally need to file an information return. Tax is generally not due, but failure to report can lead to penalties.\n7. \"Which provisions of the U.S.\u2013China tax treaty apply to me?\"\nFor example, some students' and scholars' scholarships or certain other income may qualify for tax exemption under the treaty. A professional needs to assess this based on your specific circumstances.\n5. Questions About Fees and How the Service Works\n8. \"How do you charge, and what does the fee include?\"\nCommon pricing models include fees per return, hourly billing, and annual packages. Ask whether state returns, foreign-asset reports, and handling IRS letters cost extra.\n9. \"What documents do you need from me, and what are the deadlines?\"\nThe individual tax filing deadline is usually April 15. A good CPA will provide a clear document checklist and timetable.\n10. \"How can I contact you with questions, and how soon will you respond?\"\nTax season is extremely busy. Understanding communication methods and response times in advance can help you avoid being unable to reach someone at a critical moment.\n6. Be Alert to These Warning Signs\nThe IRS has long warned taxpayers about all of the following:\nCharging a percentage of your refund: This can encourage false deduction claims, and you are responsible for the outcome.\nPromising \"a guaranteed refund\" or \"a larger refund than anyone else\": Your refund depends on your actual circumstances, not on tricks.\nRefusing to sign the return or provide a PTIN: Paid preparers are legally required to sign and enter their own PTIN.\nAsking you to sign a blank or incomplete return: Review every item carefully before signing.\nAsking for your refund to be paid into their account: Your refund should go to your own account.\nRemember, regardless of who prepares your return, you bear ultimate legal responsibility for its contents.\n7. A Question Checklist You Can Take With You\nWhich state issued your license, and where can I look it up?\nHave you worked with clients whose status is similar to mine?\nIf the IRS sends a letter, can you represent me?\nAm I a resident or nonresident taxpayer this year?\nDo I need to report foreign accounts and assets?\nDo I need to report transfers or gifts from family in China?\nWhich provisions of the U.S.\u2013China tax treaty apply to me?\nHow do you charge, and which services cost extra?\nWhat documents should I prepare, and what are the deadlines?\nHow can I contact you with questions, and how soon will you respond?\nThis article provides general information and does not constitute tax or legal advice. For your specific tax status, reporting obligations, and tax treatment, follow guidance from a licensed CPA, EA or the IRS.\nLooking for Your First CPA and Unsure Where to Start? Contact Clearway\nTax questions are connected to immigration status, income, foreign assets, and company structure. Many people cannot clearly explain their situation at their first CPA meeting, or pay for a consultation only to discover that the professional is unfamiliar with cross-border taxation.\nClearway focuses on planning and coordination for your arrival in the United States. We can help you:\nClarify your situation in advance: Help you organize your visa status, income sources, foreign accounts, and other information clearly so the first consultation gets straight to what matters.\nConnect with suitable professionals: Based on your status and needs, help connect you with licensed CPAs or EAs familiar with cross-border taxation.\nKeep track of key dates: Remind you about document preparation and deadlines during tax season to avoid a last-minute scramble.\nFlag common pitfalls: Help you recognize traps such as guaranteed refunds and fees based on a percentage of your refund.\nClearway: A Clearer Path to the United States.\nClearway provides arrival planning and coordination of everyday affairs, not immigration legal services, legal advice, or tax advice. For questions about tax status, tax filings, and visa status, consult a licensed CPA, EA, lawyer, or your school's international student office.\n\ud83d\udce9 [Enter contact details here: website \/ WeChat \/ email]","_cw_category":"tax","_cw_minutes":5,"_cw_scene":1},"categories":[28],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-25","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-cw-tax"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":304,"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25\/revisions\/304"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ycclearway.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}