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California Retirement Plans

California Retirement Plans

Reviews Summary

The reviews consistently praise the exceptional service, expertise, and personalized approach in retirement planning. Clients highlight deep trust, clear communication, and tailored strategies that align with their financial goals. Many appreciate the long-term relationships, thorough explanations, and proactive advice. The team is described as knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely caring, making clients feel confident and secure in their financial future. Repeated mentions emphasize honesty, patience, and a client-focused mindset, with strong recommendations for retirement planning.

About This Listing

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals

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

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals

Contact Information

Address

2222 E St

Bakersfield, California 93301

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM-5PM
Tuesday 8AM-5PM
Wednesday 8AM-5PM
Thursday 8AM-5PM
Friday 8AM-1PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

CA Retirement Plans use good strategies to help you prepare for retirement. They helped me see the picture of where I will be and I feel much more confident. They moved me to plans that have better yields. I highly recommend Andy Barkate and team.

I can't say enough great things about Andy Barkate and California Retirement Plans! Andy is exceptionally knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely dedicated to his clients' financial well-being. He takes the time to break down complex retirement planning concepts into clear, easy-to-understand terms, ensuring you feel confident in every decision. For anyone looking for trusted, expert guidance to secure their financial future, I highly recommend Andy and his team!

Andy has been very helpful and attentive to our needs in preparation of retirement. He's very thorough and has made us feel confident in our financial future.

I have been extremely satisfied with my interaction with California Retirement Plans. Our meetings have focused on paying less tax to the government. It doesn't make much sense to get good interest on investment accounts and pay it all back in taxes. It just takes one phone call to see opportunities available work for you.

Our interaction with Andy and his staff is always warm and cordial. He analyzes your particular financial situation and comes up with a plan that best suits your needs, He lays out options and explains the pros and cons of each. We always leave his office feeling confident we made good choices, not to mention being more knowledgeable about financial matters!

Andy Barkate has been handling my funds for 8 years. So grateful for all his help, kindness and direction in taking care of things for me. I feel confident with his help.

California Retirement Plans is an excellent resource for anyone wishing to be on the road to retirement. Mr. Barkate is very patient, explaining the ins and outs of the market. We are very pleased with the experience at California Retirement Plans.

California retirement is a great company. I've been with them for more that 15 years. They are always looking out for my financial investments and suggesting different ways to increase my portfolio.

Andy is great to work with! He seems to genuinely care about his clients and there financial well-being. We are happy to continue to work with Anady for the future.

I've gotten to know Andy very well. He's great at what he does. He's knowledgeable & makes me feel at ease. I would & have recommended him gladly. I leave his office feeling upbeat. Thank you Andy! He also has a sharp football mind! Mike Ledbetter

Very helpful, if you know little about investment Mr. Barkate is very knowledgeable . I was very comfortable.

Andy is knowledgeable and easy to talk with. I feel good about him watching over our investments.

California retirement Plans is the place to have for your retirement planning. Thank you Andy for helping me on my retirement plans.

If you are looking for an honest and highly experienced financial advisor, look no further than Andy Barkate. In addition, the team at Cal Retirement is both helpful and pleasant. Andy will take steps to understand your risk tolerance and direct you to investments which line up with your profile. I highly reccomend Cal Retirement to anyone seeking sound financial advice!

Having known Andy professionally for several years I can attest to his level of knowledge about the many realms of financial planning and assessment strategies for your long-term goals. Andy is easy to work with, trust-worthy, a good listener and he truly cares about his clients and their goals. I give Andy the highest marks possible.

I've been working with Andy Barkate for over a decade. I've learned a lot about annuities and retirement through him and through research of the products he offers. Like all financial decisions, it's important to read the materials, ask questions and research your options. I'm very pleased with our relationship through the years and have recommended his retirement classes to numerous co-workers and friends.

Andy Barkate has been handling mine and my families Financial affairs for over 10 years. In that time he has always been honest forthright and helpful. Even when I had difficulty with an insurance company he and his. staff went out of there way to help resolve the problem.

Andy and his entire staff have been very helpful as I have consolidated my accounts after losing my wife. This has meant many hours on the phone with various mutual funds and myself, so I applaud their efforts on my behalf. Thanks Andy . . .

Andy is great at sitting down with you, getting to know you personally, and then assessing your long-term financial goals. I look forward to enhancing my financial planning with Andy as we proceed in to the future. A good guy all around. Chris M.

Andy & Cal Retirement are a great income planning resource. Andy does an excellent job of finding simple ways to explain advanced financial & investing concepts.

Very knowledgeable, pratical and very much in tune with my goals for retirement.

I value any and all of Andy?s advice and input into my plan for retirement. Andy also has a team of professionals that will assist with the transition from work to retirement.

Andy has always been understanding, knowledgeable, friendly and of course very professional in our interactions. It is comforting knowing he's watching out for my financial future.

California Retirement Plans is always conveniently available for discussion and advice for our retirement plans and accounts. Highly recommend.

Great people to work with. They take the time to evaluate your individual situation before proposing any investment options. We feel very safe & secure using them.

Andy Barkate is a principled and highly informed businessman and it is a pleasure working with 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.

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