Back to Directory
Bay Tax

Bay Tax

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the exceptional service, professionalism, and expertise in handling both personal and business taxes, with many highlighting thoroughness, accuracy, and cost-saving advice. The majority are highly satisfied, recommending the service strongly. However, one critical review cites multiple errors and dissatisfaction with the quality of work, contrasting the overwhelmingly positive feedback. Overall, the consensus leans heavily toward excellence in tax preparation, with rare exceptions.

About This Listing

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.*

Contact Information

Address

3120 Telegraph Ave SUITE 3B

Berkeley, California 94705

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 10AM-6PM
Tuesday 10AM-6PM
Wednesday 10AM-6PM
Thursday 10AM-6PM
Friday 10AM-6PM
Saturday 10AM-6PM

Customer Reviews

Incompetent, made multiple errors and left off important information even after we made sure to provide all necessary documents. I acknowledge that initially we were missing one document so the first revision needed was due to our omission, but the next 2 revisions/amendments were due to his errors. Was super disappointed because he had 5 star reviews on yelp and Google but I feel it important for other consumers to be aware. I had to recheck his work, each time catching more mistakes. Finally the state of

After a less-than-stellar experience with another tax preparer, I was relieved to find Bay Tax. Dr. Sikder's professionalism and attention to detail are unmatched. He caught several errors in my previous year's return and helped me file an amendment, potentially saving me from future audits. His commitment to accuracy and client satisfaction is evident in every interaction. Bay Tax is truly a gem in Berkeley's financial services landscape

Dr. Sikder at Bay Tax is a true professional. His expertise in tax preparation for individuals and small businesses is impressive. As a CTEC approved tax professional, he handled my complex tax situation with ease and efficiency. I highly recommend his services to anyone in Berkeley looking for top-notch tax preparation.

As a small business owner, I was looking for a tax preparer who could handle both my personal and business taxes. Dr. Sikder at Bay Tax exceeded my expectations. His thorough understanding of tax laws for corporations and individuals has saved me money and given me peace of mind. The personalized service and reasonable pricing make Bay Tax stand out in Berkeley.

The team at Bay Tax, led by Dr. Sikder, provides exceptional tax preparation services. They stay up-to-date with the latest tax regulations and always find ways to maximize my deductions. Their office on Telegraph Avenue is conveniently located, and the staff is always friendly and professional. I wouldn't trust my taxes to anyone else.

Fantastic service, skilled work for both my personal and business tax filing. Absolutely would recommend working with Bay Tax!

I found BayTax through a Google search, called and scheduled a same-day appointment to file my 2019 tax return. The tax professional was extremely knowledgeable and efficient. It was a great experience!

Great service, high professionalism, Sikder is highly knowledgeable. I highly recommend him.

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.

Skip to main Home Best CPA's Nearby Upgrade your plans English Avatar for Nico Bottema Welcome, Nico Bottema! Share Install the tag on your site to get access to all features, tools and the insights you need. It's fast and easy. Site ID: 6455700 Get started with the tag installation 1 Copy this code. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Copy code 2 Paste the code into the of every page where you want to track user behavior or collect feedback. 3 To make sure everything is ready, verify that your code was installed. Verify installation OTHER WAYS TO INSTALL Install with a team member’s help Install on a platform Install with a npm package Explore the demo Take a tour of the product with realistic data to explore. Explore demo site Common questions View all Course How do I install the tag? Collect session data for replays, heatmaps, and on-site surveys by installing a unique tag on your site. Ready to add it? Follow the instructions in this 15-minute course. Article How do I know if the tag is installed correctly? Article Will the tag slow down my site? Suggested for you Enable 2FA now Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an additional layer of security to your account. Popular shortcuts title Feedback button Capture feedback in the wild by letting users share it at any point title Set up a Net Promoter Score® survey Measure long-term customer loyalty and happiness the tried-and-tested way. title Exit-intent survey Capture feedback before visitors leave and reduce your bounce rate Get started Interviews (new) Get real time feedback at critical times, thanks to easy, in-depth recruitment and analysis. Create project Finish your installation Surveys Feedback button Dashboard Invite team members Integrations