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Altruist

Altruist

Reviews Summary

Altruist receives mixed reviews, with many praising its modern platform, efficiency, and excellent customer service, calling it a top custodian for advisors. However, some users report significant frustrations, including poor communication, unresponsive support, and technical issues. While satisfied customers highlight low fees, advanced features, and client benefits, others criticize delays, lack of phone support, and unresolved problems. The platform excels for many but falls short in critical areas for others.

About This Listing

Audit
Assurance
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
International Tax

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

Audit
Assurance
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
International Tax

Contact Information

Address

3030 S La Cienega Blvd

Culver City, California 90232

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

This brokerage firm has some work to do. I left my RIA that had been in my family/with my parents and that I'd been with for 25+ years partly because they switched to Altruist. Client website quite buggy (just one E.g. - couldn't even get statements for some of my accounts to pull up/download before I left) - they need to put work into getting to work on a laptop, not just a cell, currently NO contact # to be found on their website, when I did find phone #, IVR not working well (asks you to press a # to b

In late April 2025 I quit my RIA who uses Altruist as his custodian, and Altruist would not send me all of my money for five weeks. There was an issue with my new brokerage not accepting a couple institutional class funds, so that caused about a two week delay, but my then-cash, not an insignificant amount, was held up by Altruist from May 6th to May 27th. I called them three times, emailed several times, had my new broker call them, had my old RIA contact them, at the advice of my old RIA I filed another

Altruist is a Custodian Broker Dealer for independent fiduciary financial advisers. They truly walk the talk by providing great technology, low fees and lots of extra add-on's to financial advisers in order to better serve their clients. They offer extra insurance and software security above and beyond what is required to protect client accounts. Also a huge array of model portfolios at low cost. Performance reports at no cost. Automated client billing at no cost. Clients can earn 5.10% on their cash, where

I find it TOTALLY Unacceptable when companies make a mistake, misinform people, and then won't clean it up. My financial planner was told to mail a check to Altruist-to endorse it per their directions- which we did. They got said check and would not deposit the check but instead sent it back via snail mail to FP! So, now have to drive to pick up the check, put it in my bank account and then transfer it electronically to the Altruist account ???? If they would?ve told us correctly, none of this would?ve ha

Altruist has been a great custodian for my clients and my firm.

I have been using Altruist for over 2 years and they are simply the best custodian I have ever experienced. Their modern UI and great customer services is bar none. You will not be disappointed!

Altruist has an elegant platform and user experience. I have used Altruist for performance reporting and fee billing for the last several years and am extremely pleased with the user experience. The custodian platform has advanced so much from the beginning and they are a major player for the future. So thankful for the opportunity to be an RIA owner/client for a technologically advanced fintech company.

As the Principal of an RIA, I kept seeing Altruist pop up as a custodian option for my firm. I scheduled a call with them and the representative couldn't answer basic questions, such as "Can I buy Treasuries Through Your Trading Software", and a few others. He promised to get me an answer ASAP but pushed for me to demo the software. He NEVER got back to me, but I emailed him a WEEK later and he magically had the answers, only to try and push the demo of the software. Bottom line is that they should know

Fantastic platform and custodian for independent financial advisors. Constantly improving and automating my ability to get work done and serve my clients. I've used them for a couple years and am extremely happy at Altruist. I highly recommend them to other advisors as your money management platform!

I love the efficiency, simplicity, and intuitiveness of the platform. If you are an advisor that has ever dealt with clunky software or archaic processes and thought, "Why can't I just ____?", Altruist has likely already implemented that feature. Plus, their support team is quick, knowledgeable, and kind.

As an advisor, how would you feel after not being able to get someone on the phone, after already waiting 3 days for a response to an urgent support ticket, and having to explain your issue multiple times to low level support through a chat window... You need to have a better way for advisors to get in touch, I don't care if i'm on hold for an hour, if i need something dealt with, it needs to be in a timely manner. " I'm not happy, and neither is my client. I'm getting tired of companies cutting costs by n

A trusted custodian and great customer service.

Best Interface and App

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.

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