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Aquila Wealth Advisors, LLC

Aquila Wealth Advisors, LLC

Reviews Summary

The reviews consistently praise Eric and Aquila Wealth Advisors for their expertise, personalized approach, and genuine care for clients' financial success. Customers highlight his ability to simplify complex financial planning, offer creative solutions, and provide trustworthy guidance across various needs—from small business growth to estate planning and debt management. Many emphasize his patience, professionalism, and commitment to aligning strategies with clients' life goals, resulting in peace of mind and tangible financial progress. The overwhelming sentiment is high recommendation, with clients valuing his integrity and transformative impact.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
QuickBooks
Xero
Risk Management
Multi-state Experience
Local Tax Credits

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

Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
QuickBooks
Xero
Risk Management
Multi-state Experience
Local Tax Credits

Contact Information

Address

872 Higuera St

San Luis Obispo, California 93401

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday 9AM-5PM
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday 9AM-5PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

I recently reached out to Aquila Wealth for advice on managing student loan repayments. Eric was extremely thoughtful and knowledgeable about my loan situation, and gave me advice which really helped me better understand my options for repayment. Even though I wasn't in a position to make an investment, he still took the time to help me understand my financial situation and give me some peace of mind.

I cannot say enough good things about Aquila Wealth Advisors. Eric is super knowledgeable and a true teacher at heart. He is personally invested in the success of each of his clients and goes out of his way to inform his clients about tools and strategies for building wealth. He is always very professional and willing to give his opinion without making his clients feel pressured into making a decision. He's realistic with goal-setting and understanding when goals need to be modified due to life circumstance

I have worked with Eric from Aquila Wealth Advisors for several years. He as helped me in a wide range of areas from family financial planning to business planning and is consistently helping me achieve my goals. He has a wealth of resources at his fingertips and is always very informative to speak with. I highly recommend working with Eric at Aquila Wealth.

Working with Aquila Wealth Advisors has been a pleasure. I was hesitant because I know nothing about financial planning however Eric made the process easy to understand. He laid it all out, he is very knowledgeable, and works with your best interest in mind.

Eric has helped us understand how to stretch our finances with ?out of the box? thinking and utilizing tax write off options. He is able to learn and understand our personal life goals and help us move forward and achieve them. We highly recommend at a minimum meeting with Eric. We trust him one hundred percent. He is a significant blessing to our family.

We are so very thankful that we met and hired Eric to help us grow our small business! Every meeting is jammed packed with nuggets that honestly we can not put a price tag on! Eric is smart, wise and cares about small businesses and partners with them to ensure success! We highly recommend Eric's services for your business needs. You won't regret it!

Eric, the principal of Aquila Wealth, is thorough, caring, and whip smart. I highly recommend.

My wife and I have had the pleasure of working with Eric over the last year and half. We came to him feeling overwhelmed with how to manage our finances. Throughout our time together, we've gained a sense of peace, control, and confidence in how to manage our money. His process involves understanding your goals and desires for your life which makes the experience customized to your lifestyle. Can't recommend him enough!

Eric Maldonado has changed my life! As a creative who's given my life to creating art and capturing beauty, managing wealth hasn't been easy or a top priority for the first decade of entrepreneurship. After many costly mistakes, and a mountain of debt, I struggled with feelings of failure and regret. Eric came alongside me as I was at the tail end of crawling out of my money pit, helped me and my wife identify life money goals, and set me up with a great financial team and plan. I'm proud to say I'm not onl

I've been with Aquila Wealth for over six months now and I have no reservations in recommending them for others. Under their direction, I have taken full advantage of my employer's various investment plans, begun my estate planning, and have seen my family's investments grow. For long term estate planning and wealth management, Aquila is the way to go.

Eric is knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and driven but above all else he is trustworthy.

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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