*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*
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.
*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*
*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*
*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*
*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*
1729 Columbus St
Bakersfield, California 93305
We've been going to Jessica for over five years now. She's always professional, caring and thorough. We never feel rushed out of the office and she's easy to get ahold of if we have any questions. We'd recommend her to anyone looking for a tax professional.
My Elite tax has the most amazing tax professionals. My favorite person ever who has been doing my taxes for over a decade is Michele. She goes above and beyond for her clients. I love how knowledgeable she is. It's a blessing to be able to have her helping my children with their tax needs as well.
Very professional and friendly, very satisfied with the whole experience thank you Donna Ramirez will definitely be seeing you next year.????
I love the service sweet and respectful women. Very caring and professional! Highly recommend
This place is amazing! The ladies will go and above and beyond for you. Jessica is the best, I've been filing with her for 4 years! Always professional and always treats us like family.
Jessica is amazing! I was having some issues with my taxes and she stepped in and took care of it! She's very professional and on top of it. I am impressed by how she took the time and the steps to assist me! I recommend her to anyone! Thank you Jessica ??
These ladies make you feel like family. Jessica is the best I've been with her for a couple years and love it. BEST TAX SERVICE in town.
Leaving reviews is not my thing, but my experience with Elite Tax Service was impeccable. As soon as you walk in, you're greeted by multiple amazing workers, and soon after are offered a snack/soda/water. These ladies keep this office beautiful, clean, and welcome to everyone. There is plenty of seating, and it is never an overwhelming environment. Jessica has been my go-to for over 2 years now, and I can't imagine ever looking to someone else to file my taxes. Not only Jessica, but all of the ladies workin
Excellent place to go get your taxes done the girls are very knowledgable and very nice Michelle is just an amazing person so friendly and so helpful and made the process go very well, I was looking for a tax place to help me resolve my issue I was having with my taxes and I ran across elite tax services and they helped resolve my problem perfectly. Will definitely go back.
I normally don't do reviews but this place deserves it! This is one of the best places to get your taxes done. Super friendly staff and they are good and quick at their jobs! I love going and getting my taxes done there! They are cheaper than H & R block and you help pay for their kids to play sports not some business man CEO to get a new boat. I recommend all my friends and family to go to Elite Tax service!
I had just recently went to Elite Tax Service and recieved excellent customer service. As soon as I arrived for my appointment I was asked if I wanted something to drink etc. These little things show initiative towards making the customer feel valued. Michelle did a wonderful job at assisting me with filing my taxes and was very informative with all of the steps she was doing to get my taxes done correctly. I definitely will be going back to Elite Tax Service.
I have been going to elite tax since it's opened. Jessica is so friendly and knows taxes. All the ladies are very friendly and knowledgeable. They make you feel at home and even offer drinks. Great service and a family atmosphere. It's a win win.
This place is amazing Michele is quick at filing and very helpful!!!
Quick professional quality service. I walked in on the last day of these ladies season and was immediately taken in for a last minute appointment. I was very pleased with the level of courtesy I received. This is definitely my new tax home. Thank you, ladies.
All these lovely ladies know there stuff & always aim to get you the biggest refund! I have been going to Michele for years and she NEVER FAILS ME ?? they handle and fix any issue that comes up & walk you through it all in detail. CHOOSE THEM TO HANDLE YOUR TAX REFUN!
Ok Yal! I live in Kingsburg CA and had my taxes filed through their website!! It is easy to navigate and submit documents needed as well! Donna prepared my taxes and is knowledgeable and good at what she does! I highly recommend filing through Elite even if you live miles away!
Jessica and the staff were so helpful and pulled me out of a bind. If you're looking for help with your taxes I highly recommend Elite Tax Service. They are awesome!!!
Jessica is the BEST hands down!! I have been going to Elite tax service for over 5 years and it has been the best for me since.
This is my go to every year because they know exactly what they are doing and they are always giving the best service. If you are looking to do your taxes this is the place to go.
I have been doing my taxes with Jessica for a few years , and will continue going with her she is the best!
Thank you to Jessica and her team they have always been professional and kind, the office feels more like a place I can hang out, that's how awesome their office is, see you next year
I highly recommend elite jessica has been doing my taxes for 5 maybe 6 years ..always gets me back my max refund .very humble down to earth family environment.. Michele is amazing to .. All the ladies there very well respected n friendly environment.. I recommend over any tax place ..i still owe u ladies cakepops coming soon ladies ..
Jessica was efficient, professional, personable, and very reasonably priced. I would definitely recommend her!
Hello, what's your fee? Thanks
This is a wonderful place to get your taxes done..i have known jessica for about 15 yrs now..she is my tax preparer and she does an awesome job..Elite Tax Service has a friendly enviroment..and your taxes are done in a good amount of time..so people go out and try Elite Tax Service!!thank you jessica for the best service yet!!
I been going to Elite Tax since last year i been going throw Donna for the last 4 r 5 yrs she is really great if u want to get yr taxs done i recommend u go to EliteTax all the ladys there r so nice an so helpful i thank each an everyone of u ladys for yr help thank you ??
If you need a place to do your taxes, this is the place to go. They are super friendly and give great service. Very friendly too.
Best Tax Girls In Bakersfield Very Good Service Will Recommend them To Everyone They Are Very Nice and Helpful Thanks Elite Tax
Donna is ur go to ??
i?m very happy with the service. i?ll be continuing to go back ??
This place is so small no parking... They ignored me and my wife when we came in.. Do not recommend
Will go above and beyond! Simply put they do what they know good.
Great place, Michelle is the best.
Quick and accurate, great customer service
This Place Is Hands Down The Best Tax Place Ever??
Very friendly and professional
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.