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Eaton's Income Tax Service

Eaton's Income Tax Service

About This Listing

Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
Multi-state Experience
Years of Practice
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

Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Financial Advisory
Small Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
Multi-state Experience
Years of Practice
In-person Support

Contact Information

Address

901 Calle Amanecer Ste 160

San Clemente, California 92673

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Customer Reviews

Combined, Scott and Katie have been doing my taxes for nearly thirty years. I've been on the east coast for over a decade and still rely on my friends at Eaton's. I've been extremely grateful for their skill, knowledge, professionalism, and responsiveness. Year after year, I count on Eaton's for peace of mind and a job well done.

I've owned my business since 1998. In 2013 I got breast cancer and went through a long spell of surgeries and treatment. Thank God, I had such a long term relationship with Scott Eaton, who having looked after my Personal Taxes and Business Taxes for years, was able to handle all returns without my input. It pays to have a long term relationship with an accountant who has an intimate knowledge of your business dealings, accounts as well as personal returns. Eatons Income Tax are professional, knowleable

George and I have been going to Scott for over 20 years. He has been very helpful and professional in dealing with my rather weird tax situation. I don?t do a lot of recommendations, but Scott is an exception. I think Scott and his staff are wonderful!

The team at Eaton was professional, responsive and provided expert guidance. They anticipated our needs and were proactive in working with us. Katie provided excellent follow up with high attention to detail. I highly recommend Eaton's services.

They have been my tax accountant for years now and always extremely helpful and make tax time pleasent... If that is possible... every time I leave I truly feel they have my best interests at heart and don't recall them ever dropping the ball or not being on top of changing laws.

I have never had a better experience getting my taxes done! Mark is the MAN!!! Super helpful, intelligent and really knows his stuff. These guys are legit!

Katie is wonderful. She makes it SO easy, and I know she saves me money. Besides that, she's pleasant to work with. Peg

Scott and Wendy take the pain out of tax prep. I look forward to seeing my friends at Eaton's!

Scott?s been helping my family for years. Top shelf work 10/10

Very knowledgeable and thorough tax service that stands behind its work.

Good people. Exceptional service. Expertise that makes a difference.

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.