Gildark Financial Solutions Group

Gildark Financial Solutions Group

Reviews Summary

The overwhelming consensus is extremely positive, with nearly all reviewers praising the professionalism, expertise, and personable service. Many highlight how the team makes complex tax processes simple, stress-free, and efficient, often maximizing returns through thorough attention to detail. Responsiveness, clear communication, and fair pricing are frequently mentioned. A single critical review noted higher costs and lack of discounts, but this was an outlier among glowing recommendations emphasizing trustworthiness and exceptional client care.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Audit
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Sales Tax Compliance
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Startups
Freelancers
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
QuickBooks
GAAP Compliance
Internal Controls
Risk Management
State-Specific Experience
Remote Services
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

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Audit
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Sales Tax Compliance
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Startups
Freelancers
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
QuickBooks
GAAP Compliance
Internal Controls
Risk Management
State-Specific Experience
Remote Services
CPA License

Contact Information

Address

1597 N Johnson Ave

El Cajon, California 92020

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

I feel so lucky to have found Alissa! She made the entire tax process so easy and as stress-free as possible. She?s incredibly personable, easy to talk to and took the time to explain everything clearly, ensuring we understood each step. Her responsiveness was amazing?she was always quick to answer our questions and kept us in the loop every step of the way. Despite us being a bit last-minute with our taxes, she managed to get everything done on time, which we truly appreciated. Alissa really listened to

My 2024 tax season was more complex than usual considering I relocated to California for work, sold 2 rental properties from another state, and purchased a primary residence in San Diego. I felt the need to reach out to professionals to make sure my taxes were done properly. Gildark Financial Solutions Group was there to help. They responded to me quickly and provided the tax services I needed. They were very professional, understanding, informative, and easy to work with. Their website and app is easy to n

I recently worked with Gildark Financial to help me get my taxes sorted out and I can't recommend them enough. Alissa was amazing, she was both knowledgeable and patient, and even caught some deductions I would've missed on my own. I sent my documents in and everything was handled professionally and accurately, definitely my most stress-free tax experience in years. I highly recommend Gildark Financial to everyone going forward!

I had a great experience with Gildark Financial Solutions! Alissa helped me file my taxes and she made the entire process smooth and stress-free. She was knowledgeable, efficient, and took the time to answer all of my questions. I really appreciated her attention to detail and professionalism. If you?re looking for a reliable tax expert, I highly recommend Alissa and the team at Gildark Financial Solutions!

This was my first time using an accounting firm for my taxes and I was feeling intimidated before I actually spoke with Alissa. Alissa not only answered my call on the first attempt, but she took the time to listen to my needs and answer all my questions on that call. I felt comfortable and reassured right away! Alissa and Brandon were both so incredibly gracious with their time and knowledge. The entire process wasn't stressful nor as daunting as I had anticipated. They made the communication and uploading

Alissa has done our taxes the last two years and I am always impressed with how thorough and attentive she is to helping ensure we get the best return possible. I highly recommend using Gildark Financial for all of your tax needs! We look forward to using them for many years. Thanks Alissa!

I had an outstanding experience working with Gildark Solutions Group, and can?t recommend them enough! Alissa Gildark is incredibly knowledgeable, dedicated and professional to delivering top-notch solutions! Her expertise and attention to detail made the entire process smooth and efficient. She truly cares about her clients and goes above and beyond to ensure success.

First time using Gildark Financial Solutions Group for filing the 2024 tax return. Alissa is friendly and super responsive . She worked tirelessly to solve the problem that arose while preparing my taxes. Emails and phone calls are answered promptly and taxes are filed on time at a reasonable price.

Alyssa has been doing my very complicated taxes for the last couple of years. She's maximized my best outcomes and has always been exceptionally friendly and professional. I highly recommend Gildark Financial Solutions Group specifically for taxes but also for any other financial services or advice you may need.

Alissa is an exceptional accountant?professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly kind. She makes everything seamless and stress-free, and I?ve never had a single complaint. If you?re looking for someone who truly cares about their clients and delivers top-notch service, I highly recommend her!

Highly recommend checking this place out if you are looking for a new tax person! Alissa was very knowledgeable and super friendly. She made the whole process super easy and her prices were fair. Definitely worth it!! Super satisfied.

I first found Alissa because I was in need of some ongoing, year-round tax planning. I wanted to make sure that I was maximizing my deductions and credits throughout the year so that when tax filing time came around, all that was left was to send it off to the IRS. I absolutely recommend her for your year-round tax planning needs because her tax savings strategies will do just that... save you money!

I?ve known the Gildark family for years, and they?re some of the most trustworthy and hardworking people I know. If you?re looking for tax professionals who genuinely care about doing right by their clients, you?re in great hands here.

I had a fantastic experience with Gildark Financial Solutions. From start to finish, they were quick, effective, and incredibly thorough. Alissa handled my taxes seamlessly and gave me peace of mind throughout the whole process. Their professionalism and attention to detail made everything stress-free: exactly what I need for tax season. I will only use GFSG going forward, I highly recommend!

Alissa was so knowledgeable and thorough! She saved us time, money, and stress. When you find someone top of their game, you keep them!

Gildark Financial Solutions is a great place to get your taxes done. They are very friendly and help you get in and out very fast. I was able to send all my documents over secure link and this really sped up the process. I loved the price as well. Great job!

Amazing service and great people! They really take the time to understand your needs and provide smart, trustworthy financial advice. Highly recommend if you're looking for a team that truly cares about your success!

Alissa provides great tax service. She makes the process quick and easy despite how complicated I thought it was going to be. Would highly recommend!

Great place to get your taxes done for business or personal. Very knowledgeable and answered all my questions regarding what would be best for my particular situations. I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you Gildark Financial Solution

Fair prices, amazing team, and a company I can always count on handling my taxes and books. I worked directly with Alissa and she was very professional, kind, and was willing to answer all my questions. I highly recommend!!??

Gildark Financial Solutions Group provided excellent service for both our personal tax filings and business accounting. They made the process seamless and stress-free, while offering expert guidance that maximized our returns and optimized our business finances. Highly recommend them to future clients and look forward to using them again!

My husband and I have known Alissa for many years and recently decided to start using her for our taxes. She is a true professional, and has helped us take advantage of tax credits and opportunities we weren't previously aware which helped us to maximize our return. My only regret is that we didn't start sooner!

I recently had the pleasure of working with Alissa at Gildark Financial Solutions Group to handle some unexpected trust and estate taxes. She took the time to thoroughly understand my unique situation and provided clear, concise explanations every step of the way. Her expertise and attention to detail gave me complete confidence that my finances were being handled by a true professional. With her friendly and approachable demeanor, I can see why her clients love her!

This company is wonderful to work with. They have been kind and responsive. They've worked hard to get everything done in a timely manner and they definitely know their stuff! I worked with Alissa and she's been awesome.

Alissa is extremely knowledgable and not only helped me get more money back than I was anticipating, but educated me on how to best prepare to file again for the upcoming year. She provided fantastic service, was extremely responsive, and exceeded all my expectations.

I had always wanted to sit down with an accounting specialist to go over my budget and that's when I found GFS Group. Alissa was friendly, supportive, and most importantly an expert in her field. I felt comfortable working with her as a person and felt like I had known her for years. I could tell she truly cared and wanted the best for me and my family. If you have any questions about your your accounting or taxes, do yourself and your family a favor and call Gildark Financial Solutions Group!

They?ve done my personal and business taxes the last two years, great people great service

Awesome people who take great time and care to make one of the most stressful parts of life easier. Financial responsibility isn?t easy and Gildark Financial Solutions goes above and beyond to help you with that responsibility.

They have been really nice and very easy to work with. 100% would recommend, they make Tax season easy.

We are really happy with Gildark Financial, they were professional, and thorough. Very nice to work with.

So excited to work with Gildark Financial Solutions Group!

I was struggling to formulate a plan to elevate my financial standing and with the help of gildark financial solutions they definitely helped me out They also provide tax services

Had a last minute return that needed to be filed and they got it done correctly and efficiently. I?ll be using this company in the future! Efficient, professional, and knowledgeable.

Very polite and super thorough!

Very professional and felt like I was in good hands. Would recommend!

I can always call and get the information I need when it comes to taxes and running a small business.

I have been in business for 28 years and used a few different tax preparers. The folks at Gildark Financial Solutions Group are nice, easy to work with. They are the most expensive preparer I have experienced and would not offer us with a Military discount or a Fire Fighter/First Responder Discount. Some organizations/people do not appreciate what the military and first responders do for them. Not saying that Gildark Financial Solutions Group is one of them. I will not be using their services going forward.

Gildark's online system made the whole process simple and easy. They handled my tax situation quickly and professionally. I would definitely use them again.

I?ve been working with Gildark Financial since 2023 for my tax filings, and every experience has been nothing short of exceptional. Most recently, I had a tax planning session to prepare for my first home purchase. They went above and beyond to make sure I understood everything, was set up for success, and knew of some important tax implications. The team is knowledgeable, professional, and incredibly easy to work with. They always take the time to explain things clearly, answer my questions, and make the

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.