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Commencement Bay CPA PLLC

Commencement Bay CPA PLLC

Reviews Summary

The consensus highlights exceptional service, with most reviewers praising deep tax and financial expertise, thorough explanations, and reliable guidance for both personal and business needs. Many appreciate the responsiveness, affordability, and ability to handle complex situations, including IRS disputes. A small minority expressed dissatisfaction over pricing concerns, but the overwhelming majority highly recommend the professional for their knowledge, integrity, and results.

About This Listing

Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
QuickBooks

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 Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
QuickBooks

Contact Information

Address

3318 Bridgeport Way W

University Place, Washington 98466

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 10AM-7PM
Tuesday 10AM-7PM
Wednesday 10AM-7PM
Thursday 10AM-7PM
Friday 10AM-7PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

John offers exceptional service. He goes the extra mile to assist you. Customer service at its best. He was instrumental in resolving a long drawn out appeal process with IRS. They would not respond to my appeal for almost a year. They denied my revised IRS filing that would have resulting in a tax refund for me. John contacted the by mail and then followed up with a phone call that resulted in them reviewing my appeal in a timely manner and then they agreed with my appeal. I received my check within

Mr. John Chitaley has helped me finally organize my finances and take control of my investments. I have worked with many investment professionals but none compares to Mr. Chitaley for his attention to details, to absolute integrity and to a sweeping grasp of all things investment. From guiding me in making retirement investments to planning for my children's education John has counseled me. I trust his judgment and his scholarship of the many laws that govern our investment and tax decisions. I recommend Mr

John has done our taxes for last five years and we have received extremely professional and accurate service from him. I recently started my own business and John has done accounts and taxes for my LLC as well. John has exceptional knowledge of tax, accounting and financial planning. The best part is John takes the time to explain intricacies of the tax laws . We would highly recommend John to anyone for all matters related to taxes and financial planning.

As a small business owner, I consider John to be a very important and valuable person on my team. We initially went to John for our personal tax returns, and what followed was a journey of restructuring my personal and business finances based on his wise, measured advice. John is always thorough and responsive. His rates are affordable, and with Quickbooks/WebEx and other online capabilities he's accessible no matter where in the country I am. I highly recommend John!

I was extremely satisfied with John Chitaley as my CPA. He did my taxes and managed to get a higher refund than what I had originally expected. He caught my mistakes and explained the errors with my complicated tax situation. He takes the time to answer all your questions in detail. I find him to be extremely knowledgeable and thorough. I would highly recommend him as a CPA!

John has been my tax preparer and financial planner for over 5 years. He is very honest and knowledgeable on the tax code, prevailing market conditions, and their impact on current and potential investment vehicles. I can't think of anyone I would trust more with helping me manage my finances.

I went to him for a consultation. He was only concerned about charging me an insane amount of money. When I finally walked out and said no thank you he threatened to charge me for the consultation. So he wanted to charge me for not listening to me and wanting to charge me for procuring documents I already had and could get myself. I got a lawyer for my tax issue and filed the taxes I needed for a fraction of the price elsewhere. If you are a small business that doesn?t have money to waste do not go here. H

I highly recommend John. He provided the guidance and support to get my returns done with a short deadline.

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.