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Columbia College

Columbia College

Reviews Summary

The majority of reviews praise the campus for its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly staff, and helpful faculty. Many highlight the scenic views, spacious layout, and excellent educational opportunities. Positive remarks frequently mention the supportive environment and quality of teaching. However, some criticisms include issues with parking permits, lack of diversity, and limited STEM programs. A few reviewers suggest improvements in online class offerings and administrative processes. Overall, the campus is highly regarded for its atmosphere and educational value, though some areas need attention.

About This Listing

Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Educational Institutions
Non-profits
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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

Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Educational Institutions
Non-profits
QuickBooks
Xero
Gusto
ADP
Paychex

Contact Information

Address

11600 Columbia College Dr

Sonora, California 95370

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Customer Reviews

Lovely views. Friendly and helpful staff present with watchful security, fire department on campus, and plenty of services in Manzeneta to help a budding or blossoming student get what they need. There's so much to say as a student of Columbia College, I can't put it all down without overwhelming people. Visit yourself to see how awesome it is!

Faculty and staff are extremely friendly and helpful. Small campus and smaller classes means much more attentive professors when it comes to students needs. My only complaint is the lack of diversity, but that kind of comes with the area. Outside of this complaint though all around fabulous school with plenty of educational opportunities that will feet anyone's needs or desires. I started at this college looking for better job opportunities by obtaining college credits, and ended up falling into my passion

Most of the learning is done from the book and could probably just be taught online. Having huge problems with this school and money, they charged me 3 times for the same books, had I not seen it I could have lost over a $1000. I will probably not be coming back next semester due to the low opportunities, if you're looking for anything related to technology or physics, or really anything that falls into STEM, this school is not for you. Will not be coming here next semester.

Beautiful campus. Friendly staff, students, and the instructors truly care for their students education. Highly recommend this campus for your two-year degree or to take any course.

Amazing landscape and being surrounded by nature helped my education here a lot. Great school for anything you could think of pursuing. Can't speak enough positive regards to the automotive program.

This institute of education is a great choice for anyone who wants another chance for their education, or to get something started for when they need to prepare for transfer to University courses. The surrounding areas of nature, the people who go there, and the faculty members are some of the greatest experiences you will have for your education in the Gold Country.

I wish more people knew about this place it's way better than MJC it being there sister school everything is transferable plus they're one of the only junior colleges in the United States that offers dorms.???????? It's worth a good look beautiful area

Spacious Mountain campus, good teachers & counselors.

Love the campus. So beautiful and I love all the paths and walkways. Nicely snuggled in nature and great staff.

The parking permits are a HUGE pain in the a** to acquire. Last semester I was unable to get in to my student email and purchase one (was locked out for some reason) and was able to call the Business Office and had a pleasant experience with a young lady who walked me through, with the help of a temporary alternative email and password, and successfully was emailed my new parking permit to my work computer, enabling me to use it that very day. Not the case this semester. Called the same Business office just

Good school with good teachers and helpful counselors. Dorms are nice as well has a few cons but are nice to live in.

Such a beautiful campus, friendly people, great food... I can't wait to go back to next Jazz event with Barbara Morrison! &)

Probably the most beautiful community College campus in California, and undoubtedly one of the best campuses to learn and work.

Beautiful campus, walking paths & trails. Plenty of parking.

It's pleasure to ride bicycle around

Best community college in California! LTC Class of ?17-?18, Best Ever??

A lovely wooded campus, clean and accessable

Really helpful staff and beautiful campus.

Great campus very good for long boarding

Out of all the Columbia colleges this one's the best ??

Nobody here. Few people in dorms. Get online classes going.

Always an awesome campus!

I love this place! So caring!

It's surrounded by the beauty of nature.

(Translated by Google) Every time I watched a series or movie, I thought it was Khaled Haddo University (Original) ?? ????? ????? ?? ??? ???? ?????? ?? ???? ????? ???? ???

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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