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David Kirst, CPA | San Jose Tax Preparation Expert

David Kirst, CPA | San Jose Tax Preparation Expert

About This Listing

Accounting
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
Startups
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
Healthcare
Construction
Contractors
Professional Services
QuickBooks
GAAP Compliance
Multi-state Experience
Years of Practice
CPA License

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

Accounting
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
Startups
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
Healthcare
Construction
Contractors
Professional Services
QuickBooks
GAAP Compliance
Multi-state Experience
Years of Practice
CPA License

Contact Information

Address

675 N First St #975

San Jose, California 95112

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 1-6PM
Tuesday 1-6PM
Wednesday 1-5PM
Thursday 1-5PM
Friday 1-5PM
Saturday 12-5PM

Customer Reviews

David Kirst is an excellent CPA. He filed my company 2022 tax return. David is very detailed and responds in a timely manner. He caught things that we weren't aware of and explains it thoroughly. He provided solutions and made sure our tax filing had no errors. The way he works is efficient and his rates are very reasonable. I would recommend friends, colleagues, and anyone that needs help with anything tax related to give David a try!

When our tech startup was acquired, my partner and I turned to David Kirst to help file our company taxes. He was a great help, answering all of our questions promptly and taking us through the complex process. Since then, I've relied on his help to file my personal taxes. I appreciate being able to work with a trusted sole practitioner who knows my tax history and background, and look forward to continuing to work with him. Highly recommend David for business owners looking for a great CPA.

I have worked with David for the last 5 years. He is very detailed, responsive, efficient, and very knowledgeable in his field. I remember looking for a CPA and took a gamble with David, and I?m sure glad I did. No regrets. Keep up the great service, David!

David is a true professional. He is very knowledgeable in different areas, and will always take the extra step to research and make sure you get a complete answer to any question. He is very responsive, and truly cares about his customers. He is efficient, attentive, helpful, and accurate. Finding a trustworthy financial advisor is not an easy task, and I am very satisfied and trusts David with all my financial needs.

I wanted to thank David for his time and consideration working with my business. We are a Food Truck Start up and we were looking for a CPA. He was responsive, intelligent, respectful and all around amazing during our phone conferences. His understanding as a Tax CPA gave us the knowledge and relief of questions that were weighing heavy on the business. I would recommend David anytime. I know we are not doing business at the moment but I want to ensure everyone knows your professionalism and attention to de

David Kirst provided an excellent orientation and service for both our business and personal taxes. He went beyond our expectations to explain every step of the process and was always extraordinarily prompt in his responses. If he?s busy or out of the office, he acknowledges receipt of our emails and answers back very soon. He is always open to help us in all accountant-related paperwork or mails we receive. We?re extremely happy to have found him!

I have used David Kirst to prepare my living trust IRS and FTB tax returns for the last two years. I really appreciated his promptness and quality of work.

David files my small business and personal taxes. He is very timely in his communication and work. I have referred him to friends.

David was very helpful and patient explaining how to correct a miss filed return that has resulted in a very frustrating circumstance for me. Thank you David.

"Grateful to have found a CPA who does not waste your time and provides professional expert services!"

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.