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Clear Action Business Advisors

Clear Action Business Advisors

Reviews Summary

The reviews consistently highlight exceptional tax expertise, proactive financial planning, and meticulous attention to detail. Clients praise the responsiveness, ease of collaboration, and significant tax savings achieved. Many note switching from other providers due to superior service, reasonable fees, and seamless integration with tools like QuickBooks. The team is described as trustworthy, essential for business growth, and highly recommended for both personal and business tax needs. No notable cons are mentioned, with several emphasizing long-term satisfaction and referrals.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Real Estate
Restaurants
Construction
Professional Services
Technology
QuickBooks
GAAP Compliance

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
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Real Estate
Restaurants
Construction
Professional Services
Technology
QuickBooks
GAAP Compliance

Contact Information

Address

1990 N California Blvd Ste 20 PMB 1010

Walnut Creek, California 94596

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

I refer Joel over and over again for good reason. My clients always tell me how Joel helped them save on their taxes because he found something their previous CPA had not. This happened to me too. Joel found something that my former CPA missed, and instead of paying thousands on my return, I got a huge refund! Joel is highly educated and incredibly thorough. If you want your taxes done right, and if you want to keep as much of your earnings as you possibly can, Joel is the best person for the job. Since I

Pros: ? Experienced and trustworthy outsourced CFO ? Proactive tax planning and financial strategy ? Clear guidance on business growth ? Responsive and easy to work with ? Removes stress around IRS and taxes Cons: ? None?Joel and his team are an essential asset for growing businesses As our company expanded, we knew we needed a Chief Financial Officer?but weren't quite large enough to bring one in-house. Partnering with Clear Action Business Advisors was the perfect solution. Joel Smith and his team have

Joel Smith together with his assistant, Joanne Donavan, have provided the best accounting and tax service and advice for our small business. They also prepare and file the personal tax returns for the three partners in the business. I'm pretty old at this stage, and have long experience in getting help in tax and accounting preparation in both business and personal situations. Switching to Joel's firm was the best decision our small business could have made. Joel is by far the most meticulous, helpful ac

Joel does both our small business and personal returns. Thank you for your excellent work Joel. He is very easy to work with. Also might be worth mentioning I switched to Joel's service from a small tax firm and can't be happier. Joel's fees are very reasonable, and he works directly with my Quickbooks files which makes our syncing-in very easy. Anyway, with all the good work Joel has done for us, he also does our personal taxes now (it's after many many years of doing them by ourselves)

Joel Smith helped us with a tax problem with the IRS when you used our retirement money before 59.5 years old due to a loss of job. He knew of the tax law that said we could and proved it to the IRS!! He is definitely the Master of Tax. I would highly recommend him for your business accounting, outsource accounting, controller, or personal taxes and planning. He is definitely our tax man for life!!!

Joel Smith is highly skilled and knowledgeable in his field. I have referred friends to him whom have been very pleased with us work as well. If you want the job done right, contact Joel!!

Joel provides excellent advice on taxes!

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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