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Guardian Tax and Business Services

Guardian Tax and Business Services

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the service for its professionalism, knowledge, and consistency, with many customers returning for years. The staff is described as friendly, thorough, and efficient, often outperforming larger competitors. However, a few negative reviews cite significant errors in tax filings, leading to delays and frustration. While many highlight the trustworthiness and expertise of the preparers, some express dissatisfaction with mistakes and additional costs for services. Overall, the majority of customers are highly satisfied, but a small number report poor experiences.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Entity Structuring
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Remote Services
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
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Entity Structuring
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Remote Services
In-person Support

Contact Information

Address

1090 W Highland Ave Ste 8

San Bernardino, California 92405

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 10AM-7PM
Tuesday 10AM-7PM
Wednesday 10AM-7PM
Thursday 10AM-7PM
Friday 10AM-7PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

I get my taxes done here every year with Karen and the fact that she won't be assisting me this year has me looking else where .... one of the lady's who she referred me to has put 3 people I know TAXES in error department with the irs and they didn't get their taxes til like October-November.... this is all bad ... I guess this might be tge end of the road for me here

You?ll helped my husband and I with our business taxes and we?re grateful. Need our taxes done this year also, but personal no business.

I have been going here for over 7 years and I will never go to another company again. Even though it is a small business the prices are cheaper than the big companies and I feel they are much more knowledgeable than other places I have gone like H&R Block. Every year you will see the same tax preparers and that gives you a since of consistency. You don't have to worry about different people every year that don't know what they are doing. I always make appointments and they are good with keeping the time. Ka

Karyn makes the unpleasant, pleasant. She is professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and thorough. We're glad we found Guardian for our tax needs.

I was told a girl named rosa was really good with her numbers did my taxes 2\02\16 i was suppose to get them like 02\22\16 well. Its 04\18 still havnt recieved them i called irs they said the person that did my taxes did an error they sent back to rosa she sent them back to irs n they found another error sent them back n they stop the processing til further notice. N she did the same to another person. Never again will i go to this place again .

So i called to ask how much to notarize a form. She said that if i had the form it was 15 dollars which i did have a form. So i drove there to get my form notarized and she reviews it and tells me i am required to pay for a second form . So i question it and she explains that because my form didnt have have the jurat as the state requires i needed to pay for the second form so than i said agreed ok must be something new . But than i get home and i read the additional form that was sold to me supposedly to

I have been doing my taxes here for 5 years now . Also Great people and very friendly. I would highly recommend this to place to anyone . Karen and Rosa are both awesome .

Excellent service. Mrs Chapman with exceptional knowledge and explain things in understandable language.

Karyn is the best, been going to her for nearly 10 years

Second year doing my taxes here Rosa and Edward are the best!

They were very professional and fast

Very polite and professional

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.