Empress Investment Group

Empress Investment Group

Reviews Summary

The consensus from reviews highlights exceptional service, with frequent praise for the team's professionalism, knowledge, and personalized care. Clients appreciate the attentive, responsive approach, tailored financial advice, and clear communication. Many note long-term satisfaction, citing trust, growth in investments, and a genuine focus on clients' best interests. The team is consistently described as friendly, thorough, and dedicated to achieving clients' financial goals.

About This Listing

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax

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 Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax

Contact Information

Address

321 N Larchmont Blvd Suite 800

Los Angeles, California 90004

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Tuesday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Wednesday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Thursday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Friday 8:30AM-5:30PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

My meeting with Meagan is always punctual and pleasant. I felt I was given plenty of time and didn't feel rushed. It was very informative and I really appreciate the support that Meagan and her staff has given me for many years. I'm so thankful that I met Meagan and Empress Investment Group.

I can't say enough about my experience with Empress Investment Group! From the very start, their team has been incredibly hands-on, thorough, and truly invested in my financial goals. Their approach to wealth management is not only strategic but also personalized, ensuring that every detail is considered. What sets them apart is their exceptional service?they take the time to educate, empower, and guide you through every step, making complex financial decisions feel clear and achievable. I've never felt mo

I have been using (dealing with) Empress Investment Group for several years now and have been nothing but pleased with the entire group. I am quite pleased with Meagan and the way she handles all of my investments. She is not only a bright, intelligent attractive woman but she definitely cares about her clients. I have consulted with her, not only on investment matters but also on many personal matters and have been quite happy with the advice and care she has given me on all matters. Plus, the other mem

The whole team is quick to respond whenever I have questions or need assistance. Since retirement, I've moved twice & Empress helps me project expenses vs income in order to achieve my goals. I've been a client for over 20 years and could not be happier.

I am delighted to share that I have had the pleasure of knowing Meagan Phelps for over 18 years. Our paths first crossed when I purchased my initial home with limited financial resources. Over the years, Meagan consistently scheduled annual meetings to discuss my life circumstances and how I could align my financial strategies to meet both current and future needs. The accessibility of Meagan and her team in addressing any queries or apprehensions regarding my financial requirements has been exceptional. Th

I started working with Meagan just a little over 10 years ago. In that time, I have felt tremendous amount of support and encouragement from her and the entire Empress Investment Team- with everything from saving just a little more for retirement to giving me the encouragement when I needed to reduce the amount I was putting away. Whenever I have my annual meeting with Empress, they seem to really listen to my goals and concerns. What began as a conversation 10 years ago has allowed me to feel a lot more fi

This was our first financial meeting via "zoom" and it was a good experience. Meagan was as usual her very personable self and fully prepared to review our portfolio in depth. We discussed a number of asset allocation changes we agreed to, and she promptly made the necessary changes in order to keep us as well prepared as possible for the upcoming year with its current political instability. Once the 2023 asset allocation have been finalized we would appreciate a hard copy to complete our financial file rec

I have been using Empress Investment Group's services since August 2018, a year after I retired. I have found Meagan to be the utmost professional. She is extremely personable, attentive, knowledgeable and responsive to our needs. Her expertise in investing and the financial markets is second to none. I highly value Meagan's opinion and she has proven to be very instrumental in guiding me and my husband through the financial maze of retirement. I highly recommend her services to anyone retired, or thin

I believe that Meagan Phelps and Group have our best interest at heart. I love our touch-base sessions to discuss our investment, ways to maximize the return given our situation. Very professional yet personal service.

I have been investing with Meagan Phelps at Empress Investments for a year. During that time she has managed to organize my portfolio and make money for the both of us. I always know the fees for her fiduciary service. She makes unbiased recommendations based on my conservative goals and tolerance of loss. She then allow me to make the decision. I am kept updated on my portfolio on a regular basis, as well as given the option of other services like tax preparation, estate planning, long term life insura

Deciding to work with Meagan was one of the smartest decisions my wife and I made. And it's not just about how well she's done with our investments, which she did. Our portfolio is relatively small compared to some of her other clients but the attention she gives it is on par with the "big ones". It's been 9 years since we started working with Meagan and we cannot be happier with the results, as well as her team.

The Empress team goes above and beyond to make our experience smooth, personal, and informative.

I was seeking a financial advisor and saw an announcement for a talk at my local library for a financial advisor who specialized in women clients. My best friend had been introduced to an advisor who had really impressed her, and my friend suggested I use this person. I said "Let's go to the library, hear what this person has to say, and then I can meet your recommendation." We get to the library and the woman speaking Meagan, was the same person my friend had liked! Now we're both clients of Meagan. She i

I have been working with Meagan Phelps and the Empress Investment Group for nearly 20 years. Meagan and her team are a group of professionals that have guided my personal finances and wealth management strategies with solid advice and insightful guidance regardless of market conditions. Professional, responsive, and very good people. I highly recommend the Empress Investment Group. -KM

Passion, knowledge and a genuine interest in achieving the best for her clients is what makes Meagan and her team the greatest. We have been with Empress for 9 years and couldn't be happier with the outcome. They make you feel like you are their top priority not just one of many.

Meagan Phelps is an incredibly sharp woman. She knows the financial business and is very detailed oriented.She really takes time to help you understand which investments are working for you and which are not and she works hard to make your money grow. I first joined up with Empress when I saw Meagan speak about how women in relationships do not usually pay attention to their money and their retirement - they tend to let their husbands do it for them. It really struck a chord with me and made me focus on wha

As a long time client of Empress Investment Group, I have experienced very good investment returns and portfolio results following the recommendations of Megan Phelps and her team at Empress. They proactively monitor the performance of the funds in my portfolio and will advise when adjustments are necessary. They have done a good job matching my risk tolerance to portfolio. They communicate with their clients monthly through email assessments of the market. Empress also reviews my employer retirement f

Meagan and her team are wonderful to work with!! Meagan is extremely knowledgeable and she guides her team to be as well, and to be responsive to clients needs. They are very active in client care and keeping me appraised of investments and financial life goals. Highly recommend this business!!

Meghan, Laura and the rest of the Empress team are are awesome! They pay detailed attention to their clients and their finances. They continue to educate their clients by sharing their knowledge and financial expertise. They engage their clients in all decisions affecting their investments. They custom fit their clients financial goals to the needs and wants to the individuals they help. They genuinely care and have their clients best interest at heart.

Your can't get anyone who cares more about YOU and YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE than Meagan Phelps. She and her staff at Empress Investment Group are top-notch. Whether you are young and just startIng to save for your future or older and need better investments in order to help your money work and last, or you're nearing retirement and need help figuring out how to have your money last; Empress is the place to go. I have never worked with a financial advisor who knows exactly how to figure out your risk tolerance

I have been a client of Megan's for decades. She is the nicest, kindest and most knowledgeable person I know. Seriously! I came to her because I had had problems with the different people I had worked with prior. She successfully got my finances where they should have been. Also her entire staff is (are?) efficient, kind and reliable. This review may look like I am related to her. I am not, but I wish I were.

Meagan Phelps literally came to my rescue when I was going through the process of buying a condo in Florida, my home state. With her help, I was able to transfer funds fast and efficiently, beating my contract's deadline. Without Meagan's savvy insights, I would never have achieved that. Just this week, Cynthia Rich took time over two meetings to enlighten me about the best course for monies earned from the sale of that property. Both of these women are caring, practical, brilliant. I would never ask for fi

We had a great experience. Meagan took lots of time with us and patiently explained and addressed all our concerns and questions. We feel very pleased to have her and her team handling our portfolio even though it is not a large portfolio, we are made to feel that we are as important as any other client. David and Sharon Allshouse

I've been thrilled to work with Meagan and Empress Investment Group! Not only have I received very positive results with my investments, but they are careful to make sure i am updated on my investments and the progress---something I NEVER received working with major stock broker firms in the past. I cannot sing their praises highly enough!

Empress has provided good service in the year or so that I've been with them. What I like best about the organization is that they don't waste your time, and they expect the same from you. For example, they return phone calls and emails in a timely manner, so I've never felt like I'm left hanging when I need an answer to a question. Also, if your financial planner is running late for your appointment, they'll let you know in advance so you're not waiting around endlessly. This is a good business practi

Becoming involved with Empress Investment Group is the smartest decision I ever made. They secured my retirement. It is always a pleasure to deal with them. They are always available to help and answer any questions you may have. Great people.

I have gained so much personal wealth knowledge from Empress over the past year. I still have a lot to learn, and I appreciate the attention given by Meagan, Laura, Angelica and Sonya. They helped me consolidate my many accounts after a long career in higher ed, and I have been very pleased with the results. Highly recommend.

Especially Meagan P. is very personal, helpful, and professional. I feel that I can trust her because since I joined Empress Investment Group all my investment are growing a lot faster then before.

Empress is the first investment group I have used.I have been with them for a little more than a year. It is a relief to have some of the decisions and research done by professionals I can trust. I had been doing everything myself and made quite a few mistakes. The staff is friendly, responsive and personable. I was worried, at first that since I have a relatively small amount that they wouldn't take me seriously. Not so. I have received nothing but respectful and clear advice. I recommend them highly.

I've been very happy since I switched to Empress Investment Group. My portfolio has grown more with them then anywhere else I've invested. They are responsive and stay closely in touch, much more than I've had from other investment organizations. I highly recommend them for your investment needs.

Thanks so much for watching over my finances with a prosperous future in mind. Enjoy the holidays and a Happy New Year filled with peace and joy.

We've been using Empress for over 11 years, hoping we could build upon what we had so when retirement came we would comfortable and not have to worry about our financial situation. Well, we're now retired with a portfolio that's increased very, thanks to Empress. They really know what they're doing! Thank you Empress.

My experience with these women has been excellent. They are knowledgeable and experienced in the investment world. They evaluate the risk you want to take with your money and they stay in those perimeters. I have been very happy with my investment returns and have referred several friends.

My husband and I have been using Empress Investment Group for over ten years and have been extremely pleased with the knowledge, service and the kindness of Meagan Phelps. I highly recommend her as a financial advisor.

The Empress Investment Group is amazing. They are accessible, knowledgeable and extremely professional. I high recommend them for your investment, retirement and financial planning reeds

The staff at Empress is always welcoming and knowledgeable. Meagan and the staff are a delight to work with. My highest compliments to them.

I've worked with Empress for a few years now and have never had any issues with them. They are so great - so clear and concise - and I completely understand my finances due to them. I highly recommend them!

All the staff are extremely professional, friendly, and kind. My advisor, Laura, is very patient in explaining the details of my accounts and helping to guide me to a good position for retirement.

Megan is knowledgeable and generous with her time and ideas. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit with her and have taken her advice to heart.

From my first meeting with the staff at Empress, I was welcomed to ask questions, seek information, express any doubts and concerns I had about financial planning and begin to immediately feel a change in my comfort level and hope for my long term income.

Meagan and her team are amazing! I would recommend them to anyone looking for the best team to invest there money!

Love Meagan and her team! Love the woman-owned business aspect which works great for me planning my financial future.

I had a thorough and insightful meeting with a financial consultant and came away with a larger understanding of how to plan my future income and then retirement years. Very impressed with the analysis and their desire to give me exactly what I need in order to achieve life time goals.

Glad I'm connected with this group. Meagan pays attention to your money and explains things so you can understand what is happening with your account. Highly recommend!

Friendly and helpful group of people. They keep me informed of the market weekly. This is my first time working with an investment group and I am very happy with Empress.

Great communications process "getting started". Professional, knowledgeable, detailed and thorough on planning, client expectations and follow ups.

So grateful for Megan and her amazing team.

Everybody at Empress has been kind, thorough, and most importantly have had my best interests as their top priority.

Amazing team. I've worked with Empress for over two years now and have been impressed with them from day one. I highly recommend them!

Megan is a Godsend, I do not know what I would do without her, she has directed me successfully in maintaining my assets. Thank you for all that you do for me...Eileen W

Empress lives up to the mantra, women supporting women

Meagan and her team do a great job of clarifying my situation and following up on next steps.

My financial status was reviewed with me and they offered other financial advice as well. I am pleased with their service.

Megan is always ready to answer all our questions and takes time to explain the options and details we didn't even know we needed.

Not only saved us tons of money, but made us tons more. Meagan, Sonya and Angelica are angels!

Meagan seems to always have my best interest in play.

Meagan is hands on and responsive to our concerns

Meagan and her staff are wonderful to work with.

Professional, Attention to detail..!! Highly recommended.!!

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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