*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.*
1212 28th St
San Diego, California 92102
Ed and Atusko have always been so kind and helpful. This year they rescued me from a business tax issue I was having with a different accountant. Ed explained everything and took the steps to file my taxes correctly. I am so grateful for them and would highly recommend to anyone who wants the assurance of knowing their taxes are done right.
Ed and Atsuko are patient, knowledgeable, and friendly. I recently started a sole proprietorship, which...complicated my tax position a bit. Ed helped me work through all my expenses, deductions, and other considerations to make sure I was optimizing my return, preparing myself for the following year, and remaining 100% IRS compliant. I will continue to refer Golden Hill Tax Solutions to friends and family.
Golden Hill tax services are my friends. I would highly recommend them and have given many referrals to them over the years. I do not like doing my taxes, so Ed and his friendly staff make everything simple and easy. They want these documents, I get them the documents, ok come in and sign and pay! This is it for 2020 done! This is it 5 stars! I got a large refund this year too! Thank you ! Mike
I generally don't write reviews. I honestly believe the default of good service should be 5 stars, therefore, it's what I expect. In addition, if I wrote reviews, I wouldn't do it for at least 2 years (yes, I'm that critical). I believe in consistency and most establishments start to get a little too comfortable and, well, then you see what their real customer service is like. So, after going to Golden Hill Tax Solutions and working with Ed and Atsuko for about 3 years, I figured they had earned not only bu
I was last minute looking for someone to help me amend my taxes and Edwin was so incredibly nice and helpful. I was in a time crunch and he was able to fit me in quickly. He was super personable and thorough. I'm very happy I found him and I will be going back!
Went here last year and did my taxes just because I had the hassle of doing them myself. I told like 3 or 4 people how much I paid and they immediately told me I overpaid. I didn't think much of it because it wasn't substantially more than they said they paid. Went back again this year and showed him my documents. He went through everything and it came up that I drove for Uber and Lyft for a couple months. He immediately said that would be another $80 more than last year. So then I immediately asked him for
Ed was very professional and helpful in answering all my questions. He took his time and was sincere with all of his advice. Highly recommend!
I highly recommend getting your taxes done here. Ed has been preparing our taxes for years and i wouldn't trust anyone one else.
Ed is so knowlegeable and works with you. He answered all my questions and gave me some great advice. I highly recommend seeing him.
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.