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Creative Management & Tax

Creative Management & Tax

Reviews Summary

Most reviews are highly positive (5-star), praising the professionalism, expertise, and efficiency of the tax services, with many highlighting exceptional refunds, friendly staff, and long-term trust. A few negative reviews (1-star) cite serious issues like poor communication, unaddressed problems, and alleged fraud involving a stolen refund. Overall, satisfaction is high, but the critical complaints raise significant concerns about accountability.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Estate and Trust Tax
International Tax
Small Businesses
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

Bookkeeping
Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Estate and Trust Tax
International Tax
Small Businesses
QuickBooks

Contact Information

Address

817 W San Marcos Blvd

San Marcos, California 92078

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM-12PM,1-5PM
Tuesday 8AM-12PM,1-5PM
Wednesday 8AM-12PM,1-5PM
Thursday 8AM-12PM,1-5PM
Friday 8AM-12PM,1-5PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Creative Management and Tax Services. Owner, Karen Davenport has been doing our biz and personal taxes since 2016. Karen is meticulous at keeping up to date with the many tax changes that occur each year. Its always a pleasure doing business with her, see you next year Karen.

Karen and her team have been an absolute lifesaver for my small business. She handles my accounting and tax returns with incredible precision and expertise, making what could be a stressful process completely seamless. I trust her completely and am consistently impressed by her professionalism and attention to detail. I highly recommend Karen and her services to anyone in need of reliable, expert tax planning and preparation!

Creative Management & Tax stole my 2023 tax refund. My tax refund mysteriously was sent to an account opened in my name in New York City. Someone changed the routing number on my tax return after I had signed it last April. The company has not refunded my lost refund nor have they even called me to discuss it. I would NOT use this company. I had use them for 16 years before that with no incident. Jeanne

Tip top pro tax advice and assistance. Always a smooth experience, Karen and her staff really know their stuff and it shows.

I was referred by a friend to use Karen and this tax office 2 years ago and I'll never use another tax preparer other than her ever again! She answered every single one of my tax questions and beyond. I received 2 large tax returns 2 years in a row with zero mistakes and I got my tax refund faster than any other place I've ever been. It wasn't just the refund and how fast I received it. Karen is super friendly and professional. She has definitely gone the extra mile for me year after year. It doesn't surpri

Best decision I made was going here to get my taxes done for 2014! If I could rate them higher than 5 ... I would! The staff there was very accommodating. The whole process from start to finish was pleasant. Brian helped get me the best possible refund possible. Incredibly knowledgable, quick, and thorough. AFFORDABLE as well! He helped me to receive an impressive refund, and the cost for their services really surprised me! I have done my own taxes, and many other methods, but after last year with Brian a

Karen is the best. I've been using her for years for tax preparation and advice and she is always exceedimg my expectations. Great support staff. Excellent Financial Services including in-house legal. As of March 2019.

I highly recommend Creative Management & Tax. I worked with Brian and had a great experience. He was very friendly, professional, and knowledgeable in his field. I received a high refund within a week of working with them. Quick, quality and accurate taxes is what you can expect coming here!

As an attorney and real estate broker, I expect precision, high ethical standards and urgency with my tax professionals. Referring my clients to Creative Management & Tax meets all my criteria. When my clients are professionally treated by them, it reflects well on me. I highly endorse this office to you.

Fantastic experience! The service was professional, the pricing was more than reasonable, and the staff at creative tax are friendly and took the extra care to ensure that they were filing an accurate return while maximizing my refund. They have earned my business for years to come.

The team at Creative Management & Tax Services did an amazing job on my taxes.I am extremely appreciative of the work they did and I would highly recommend them!

I was very pleased with the level of professionalism and efficiency. For the last two years with Creative Management & Tax I've received great service and a speedy return. I will definitely be back. Thanks again!

You literally could not ask for a better, more knowledgeable, friendly tax professional! Karen is on top of her game and knows what to do in all situations. I would recommend Karen any day of the week.

Horrendously bad communication, no follow-up on issues with the IRS. I will be reporting them to the licensing agency. Contact me if you want details. I've never seen a lack of professionalism like this.

Julianne is kind, helpful and keeps me organized and Karen is amazing at tax returns.

I've had them doing my taxes for a few years now. Easy to work with, no complaints here.

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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