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John D. Duffield CPA/MST

John D. Duffield CPA/MST

Reviews Summary

The reviews consistently highlight exceptional professionalism, expertise, and trustworthiness. Customers praise the team's knowledge, efficiency, and ability to handle complex tax and financial matters with clarity and care. Many emphasize long-term satisfaction, noting the staff's friendliness, responsiveness, and dedication to saving clients money. The service is described as reliable, thorough, and tailored to individual needs, with strong problem-solving skills for IRS issues. Clients highly recommend the firm for both personal and business finances, often citing it as the best in the area. The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with repeated mentions of honesty, punctuality, and a client-focused approach.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Audit
Business Consulting
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Real Estate
Healthcare
Hospitality
Construction
Law Firms
QuickBooks

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
Audit
Business Consulting
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Real Estate
Healthcare
Hospitality
Construction
Law Firms
QuickBooks

Contact Information

Address

3850 Riverlakes Dr Suite E

Bakersfield, California 93312

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

John Duffield has moved his office to River lakes Dr. They are just behind Mechanics Bank. John and his staff, have helped me with my taxes and other services that he provides for several years. I'm extremely happy with our working relationship. John keeps up on all of the new laws and regulations and is extremely skilled at taking care of any problems you might have with the IRS regarding audits. I give John a strong recommendation.

Had a brief consultation with John, and learned he is not only quite knowledgeable in his field, he is equally considerate of your individual situation. John, along with his staff will be my preferred professionals when needing tax related inquiries and solutions. Thank you, Yvette and John for bringing a piece of mind.

John Duffield and his staff are AMAZING! I have been with John and his team for over 12 years. John is very knowledgeable and I trust him with both my business and personal finances. I'm so happy that I found this great team!!!

I would never have my bookkeeping or taxes done anywhere else!! John and his staff are truly amazing, if I have questions about anything they're only any email away or we can set up a meeting. They are always very accommodating and knowledgeable. I know my business is in safe hands with John and his staff.

We love John Duffield! He has been doing all of our family's taxes for many years and he (and his staff) have always been honest, efficient, friendly, and extremely helpful. Another plus is his office is centrally located and has plenty of parking. Give him a try! You will not be disappointed. We highly recommend him.

John Duffield is nothing short of professional, while managing to accomplish any task or question that we may have- no matter what the hurdle may be. John has stepped in to save the day on numerous occasions, and for that I am forever grateful. I would highly recommend his office to anyone that asks, knowing they would be in good hands.

John Duffield is A+ at what he does and knowledge of accounting practices. When I came to him almost 10 years ago my previous CPA had made an error with my business Tax ID for years. John was able to submit letters and request to the IRS and get the fees thrown out while helping to rectify a bad situation. I will definitely be using him for the foreseeable future.

John Duffield and his staff are professional and extremely knowledgeable. John has been our CPA for personal and business accounting, taxes, and consulting. You will not go wrong using John Duffield for any of these services.

Mr. Duffield has been my tax accountant for several years now. He is excellent, and I highly recommend him. My taxes are complicated due to a combination of income from a variety of sources, including Schedule C self-employment. Plus I have a business loss carried over from a dramatically failed investment. Complicated to me, that is. Not to Mr. Duffield -- he is a true professional. And I should mention his staff too. They are also the best -- friendly, helpful, knowledgeable.

Mr. Duffield very professional and personable. He will guide you in the right direction regarding as to the correct tax forms you will need to submit. He is very thorough. He answers your questions in a way that he makes it easy for you to understand. We've had our taxes done by another firm for the last 30 yrs. Decided to switch. Went with Mr. Duffield. One of the best decisions we've made. We intend to have Mr. Duffield take care of our tax "stuff " every year from now on.

In 2019 I started two different LLC's. John's office made it easy for us to get our tax liabilities understood. His staff also helped with our payroll when we brought on our first employee. I routinely work with John and his staff on various corporate and estate planning issues with my clients. My clients have always been satisfied with their referral.

We are new to Bakersfield from out of state and needed a new accountant . After calling several firms I was most comfortable choosing John and his staff . They are very friendly and do everything to help you save money on taxes.

Great service and great tax advice. As a startup, John takes time to be sure I understand the important things. I wouldn't use anyone else after being a client for 4 years!

We've trusted John D Duffield CPA with our taxes for many years. They're professional, efficient and trustworthy. They've done an AWESOME job preparing and filing our taxes.

John and team are very knowledgeable and professional adding value to each client served! Thank you John for taking good care of my clients!

Professional , accurate ,knowledgeable, friendly, and the staff that stands with you on the correct tax advise. My experience with John Duffield has continued for over 10 years.

No matter how small or big your business or issues, John D. Duffield is your man. I have a very small business but he makes sure that I'm prioritized. He knows his stuff!

Johns team has been great. We were so happy to learn that we could take his services with us when we moved out of state. Really appreciate his professionalism.

Mr. Angel Zhen has excellent work ethics. Punctuality is one of his strength in working with the clients. Amazing expertise in incorporating technology and social media into his practice of business. Berkeley graduate with taxation background. Always love working with professionals who can help me save more money on taxes. Mr. Zhen is also a great local guide for information in Bakersfield, San Diego, and other locations in California.

John and his teamwork are the most competitive in what they do. We are lucky to have them provide us with their amazing services.

John and his associates are always very helpful and kind. They are also very knowledgeable and willing to help you with your problems and answer questions.

John and his team got me out of a jam, quick easy and painless, I would highly recommend using John and his team.

Very professional, knowledgeable, personable. Explained everything in detail to make sure we had a clear understanding concerning the issue at hand. Very impressive CPA.

This office is the perfect choice if you want your finances handled properly. Professional, direct and honest.

I wouldn't trust anyone else with my financials! John is the BEST!

Very knowledgeable and trustworthy. John is my only choice in Bakersfield.

Very detail oriented, on time, and accurate. The best in town!

I would give more than 5 stars if I could.

Best CPA in all of Bakersfield. Highly Recommend.

Always very friendly, knowledgeable, courteous, and helpful.

5 stars, i wouldn't settle for less

Can not ask for better!!

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.