Downey Tax Company

Downey Tax Company

Reviews Summary

Downey Tax Company receives mostly positive reviews (5-star ratings dominate) for professional, efficient service with specific preparers frequently praised. Many long-term clients highlight trust, expertise, and excellent refund results. However, recurring complaints cite poor communication (unanswered calls/emails), unreliable scheduling (late/missed appointments), and occasional unprofessional staff behavior. Negative experiences often involve delayed responses, IRS penalties from errors, or frustration with off-season support. The portal for document uploads is praised, but inconsistent customer service and last-minute cancellations deter some business clients. Overall, satisfaction hinges on which preparer handles the case.

About This Listing

Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Startups
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
Real Estate
Healthcare
Construction
Contractors
Professional Services
QuickBooks
Remote Services
In-person Support

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
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Startups
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
Real Estate
Healthcare
Construction
Contractors
Professional Services
QuickBooks
Remote Services
In-person Support

Contact Information

Address

8409 Florence Ave Suite 204

Downey, California 90240

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 10AM-3PM
Tuesday 10AM-3PM
Wednesday 10AM-3PM
Thursday 10AM-3PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

If you're trying to get any type of support from them outside the regular tax filing season (any time that's not between January to April/May), don't even bother and that's coming from someone whose been coming here for over 6 years. I do like going to my person here and she does a good job at doing my taxes, but I've realized this place is a hit or a miss otherwise. I'm referred several people here and I've regretted it each time. 5 stars for tax person which I'm won't mention in order to stay anonymous.

Our family has used Downey Tax Company for many years and we're always happy with their friendly staff and knowledgeable preparers. Highly recommend them!

I've been going to Downey Tax for a few years already and Davina, my tax advisor is always looking for my best interest. Definitely recommended for either personal or business taxes.

My wife and I have been doing our taxes here for more than 5 years! The best customer service! Fast and efficient! Davina is our tax preparer, she's great !

Exceptional service! I entrusted my tax preparation to Liz and the Downey Tax team, and they exceed my expectations, year over year, since 2012z From start to finish, they demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail. They navigated the complexities of my finances with ease, ensuring accuracy and maximizing my returns. Their friendly and responsive communication made the entire process stress-free. I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking top-notch tax assistance. Five stars

Downey Taxes is a great company. I've been doing my taxes here for about 4 years and Davina has always been wonderful at preparing and helping me with my w2s and 1099s tax filings. I highly recommend them!

It was my first time here, I had gotten a recommendation from my boss at work who has been going to Liz for I think 6+ years but anyways I wanted to check them out and I got an appointment with Davina she was SUPER helpful. She really made sure I was able to get the MOST out of my tax returns!!!! Will recommend them to my family and friends 100%

Very helpful great customer service polite and knowledgeable everyone I ever sent to Downey tax company they always thank me by buying me lunch and they continue to keep going to Downey tax company for their tax refund I've been going to Jessie alvarez for years now and will continue to do so!

Front desk receptionist was great! Very friendly and we chatted a lot. He was very helpful I'm sad I didn't get his name. If you do go please bring all your documents you need makes your whole process go by faster. I saw Davina and she is the best! I haven't gotten money back in years and she helped me get the most ever! She is amazing!

Love Downey Tax Co. Davina is the best I've been going to her for 3 years now. She takes her time and explains the whole process! Highly recommend!

We have had our taxes prepared by Jesse for years, he does a great job and is now helping us with our business returns. He is very knowledgeable and helpful. The entire team is professional and attentive, we receive reminders for our appointment which I appreciate! I always sent my friends, family and clients to DTCO because they deserve the business. Keep up the great work guys!

I would highly recommend Downey Tax Company. Jesse is awesome, and extremely efficient. Their staff is very friendly. I don't have anything negative to say about this company, they are awesome. I am extremely satisfied.

If you try to file taxes with them as a business owner and have to do them quarterly forget it these people are unreliable and unprofessional. Appointment means nothing to them and will cancel last minute. No joke Last Minute. Go anywhere but here could?ve had a loyal customer for a long time.

I have been going to Liz for 6 years now and would never think of going anywhere else. The first year she reviewed our prior taxes done by someone else... it was a pleasant surprise to know that she was able to get us more money coming for those prior years filed. Liz is always professional and friendly and her team and herself are available year around to answer any questions. I have since recommended several family and friends and they now too have become loyal clients of Downey Tax Company. BIG thank you

Highly recommend Downey Tax Company. Been going there for years and they always deliver impeccable service. I love their portal for uploading docs. It makes the process really easy.

Love Downey Tax Company. This was our second time doing our taxes with them. We see Priscilla. She is so kind and helpful! I started a business and didn't really know what to expect but she helped me through everything. Very much recommend Downey Tax Services

Front desk receptionist needs more customer service skills, he was rude and short with me, not once did he look at me while talking to him, he almost seemed bothered with me for being there and asking him questions that he wouldn't even answer! He was too busy texting ????? just like my tax girl was. After seeing Liz about my taxes, two seconds later, I asked him to see her again to give her papers we were missing. He was no help, " Liz is on the phone and her next client is here", he said, mind you I s

Liz Samaniego has prepared our taxes for several years now. I'm extremely surprised by how poorly she handled this situation. I made her aware of a tax error she made, and after promising she would look into it, she never came through. I called her office, I sent her a text, and I emailed her. There is no excuse for not responding. This is not acceptable from an office that claims to be professional and reliable. A simple reply could have sufficed acknowledging her error. This is not how you should treat a

My business partner and I decided to file our taxes with Davina Alvarez. We filed late (which we were aware of) and needed to have Form 1065 filed and our K-1?s received. The on-the-phone appointments were not promptly kept. Either the CPA was over a half hour late or she had to reschedule (on a couple occasions). My business partner and I understood that they must be slammed with clients filing late as well. To our surprise, we received a penalty from the IRS for a hefty amount, due to the negligence/ign

Jessie Alvarez and his team handle all my tax needs. They take their time and explain everything to me and my wife as far as our tax responsibility and what we can do to ensure the best possible outcome for a good return and low responsibility to federal. Polite and professional, will always come here.

I almost did not file my taxes this year, but I decided to contact Downey Tax Company and ended up getting a tax return of $2,000. I called the owner of Downey Tax Company and ask him for his advice on whether or not I should file my taxes this year. The owner was an extremely nice guy and he encouraged me to file my taxes even though I felt that it was a waste of time. I sent him all of my information and within 30 minutes he told me that I would be getting a tax return of 2k! I had a great experience at

I have been coming here for years! Jessica is my go to tax lady. I love catching up with her every year. My whole family now comes to see her. I always have a great experience 100% recommend Downey tax company

I am very sad to have to write a negative review on a business that seems to have so much positive feedback. I decided to file my income tax return with this company based on their awesome reviews. Scheduling the appointment was fairly easy and fast, filing was also fairly easy ?mbar Espino did our income tax filing. We were missing some documents which I understand it's on us. However they took days before even sending us a link to their portal to upload the documents. Once we received it we had issues wit

Was able to get an appointment that worked with my crazy schedule, everything went smoothly and was totally satisfied with the outcome and convenience of it all. Can't wait to do my taxes again next year. Highly recommend!

I have been using Downey Tax Company for a few years and have been extremely happy with their service. They are very professional and responsive. I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone.

Was referred to Downey Tax by a friend. Received excellent service. They were thorough and friendly. Will go back next year.

Literally have been trying to get ahold of the person that was supposed to file for me . After almost 2 weeks now I've gave up. From leaving messages that I was told would be sent to the tax preparer, to sending emails . No response , save yourself the trouble plenty of other places to file your taxes in la .

Priscilla has been our go-to girl for the past 4 years now! She is always professional, works quick, and explains everything super clear! I don't even live in California any more and she is STILL the one we trust for taxes. Thanks Priscilla!

The best place to get your taxes done! Their staff is friendly, professional and the service is unbeatable. I am always pleasantly surprised with how easy they make things for me. I highly recommend!

I FINALLY found a place where they know about taxes! Maggie was so profesional and was able to get me a great refund! I felt comfortable with them as all of them where great! Finally a team that knows about the IRS! You guys rock! Ill be coming every year!

this was my second year going to DTC. and Liz and her team very efficient... Love the way your treated since the day you make your appointment... thanx DTC team. till next year!! ps: recommend doing your appointment on time Liz could get very busy lol

I've been coming here for years because I know I'm in good hands. The service is impeccable and I recommend Downey Tax Company to all my friends, family and anyone who wants a hassle free tax day.

Been going to see Liz for 6 years now, since before she went out on her own. She is kind, thorough and efficient. So happy to have a tax pro that we can trust!!

Davina has been doing my taxes for the past several years. I really appreciate how fast and easy she makes it. I wouldn't go to anyone else.

IF I COULD GIVE THIS PLACE ZERO STARS I WOULD. THIS IS LITERALLY THE WORST TAX COMPANY IVE ENCOUNTERED. JACKIE, JADA AND DAVINA ARE EXTREMELY UNPROFESSIONAL, CARELESS AND COULD CARELESS ABOUT THEIR CLIENTS.

Amazing work, Davina is solid ? we totally recommend her!

This company is very detailed and professional. I highly recommend them!

Shame on these people for not double checking their work. Have someone else look at it as a witness, learn your lesson and don't come here.

Quick and painless. I appreciate all the hard work and will be a lifetime customer.

Worst place to do your taxes hands down.

This place never answers the phone.

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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