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Keeping The Books Inc.

Keeping The Books Inc.

Reviews Summary

Consensus: The reviews consistently praise the professional, responsive, and knowledgeable service provided. Clients highlight the team's efficiency, attention to detail, and ability to streamline financial processes, making bookkeeping stress-free. Many appreciate the long-term reliability, seamless digital integration, and collaborative approach with other professionals. The service is highly recommended for businesses of all sizes, with clients expressing trust and confidence in their expertise. The team's friendly, caring attitude and ability to adapt to specialized needs are frequently mentioned as standout qualities.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Financial Statements
Sales Tax Compliance
Budgeting
Forensic Accounting
Small Businesses
QuickBooks
Remote Services

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
Financial Statements
Sales Tax Compliance
Budgeting
Forensic Accounting
Small Businesses
QuickBooks
Remote Services

Contact Information

Address

1108 Garden St Suite 212

San Luis Obispo, California 93401

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 8AM-12PM

Customer Reviews

We have been using Keeping the Books for years now and I honestly cannot imagine running my business without them. Tobin and Jill, and his entire team are super knowledgeable, very professional and friendly! They help when you need it, and truly care about their clients. You just don't come across folks like this anymore. I am so grateful that we found them and will not be going anywhere else.

Our business has been working with Jill Ozcan at Keeping the Books for almost 2 years now and I have to say it has been a pleasure working with Jill and the team at Keeping the Books. I'll say I was a bit hesitant to hire a service for a role as important as bookkeeping thinking they may not take as much ownership as a bookkeeper with a closer relationship to the business. However, I have been more than pleased with the high level of service, competency and genuine caring for our business interests we hav

KTB and the crew have been doing my professional services company books for as long as I can recall. They are always professional and responsive to my specialized needs. In addition when I wanted to go completely digital a few years back, they did not hesitate to accommodate my needs and desires. It actually made the whole process paperless and so much more efficient. Anyone looking for an out of house bookkeeper can call Tobin and be satisfied they are getting the best service on the Central Coast.

Keeping The Books was instrumental in helping us get our business up and running successfully! The staff is knowledgeable, and always available to answer questions or work through sticky bookkeeping issues that would've otherwise been difficult for us to navigate. Using KTB allowed us to focus on the parts of our business that we excel in. Our initial hesitance to hand over such an important part of our business running successfully was quickly replaced with trust and confidence. They're more than capable o

We have been with Keeping the Books, Inc since we started our business and we couldn't be happier with the service we've been provided. Their knowledge and extreme attention to detail has been critical to keeping our bookkeeping straight and organized. I can't recommend them enough and I can honestly say that our business would't be where it is today without having them as a partner. Thanks KTB!

The entire crew at Keeping the Books is absolutely ON POINT and ready, willing and able to answer your questions and solve any hiccups that may appear as you plow through your company's financial issues. Robin is my personal representative and I can attest to the fact that she has always been there for me whenever I've needed a number, a last minute employee request....you name it, Robin has been there for me, getting me the information I need, and producing the reports that I need in a timely manner. You

Keeping the Books and my CPA firm have been working together for a number of years now and the quality of their product stands alone. As a CPA, it is imperative to work with businesses who utilize the skills of a professional bookkeeper. Correct financials make our job of preparing an accurate return that much easier and more cost effective for the client. In addition, having an accurate, timely picture of your company's financial health allows you to make more informed business decisions. Keeping the Books

Tobin and everyone at Keeping The Books are the best! It's nice knowing that i can focus on running our business and they've got our backs with the finance part of it. I have complete trust and faith in everyone there and feel so lucky to have found them! Cannot recommend them more! Mike @ The Dent Shop

Tobin and his team have been invaluable during our time working together. He is always quick to respond, and willing to work with the other professionals we use. This type of teamwork gives me the confidence that I'm making wise and efficient financial decisions. You won't be disappointed if you hire him as your bookkeeper.

As a small business owner, I needed to find someone who could take my stress level down a notch. I have the honor of working with Jill. She is quick to reply, kind to remind, smart, helpful and a joy to interact with. I highly recommend Keeping The Books (and Jill :).

I've had a great experience with Keeping The Books for the past 10 years. They are professional, quick to respond and efficient. I'm a happy and thankful customer.

Keeping the Books has made my business run more efficiently and their professional, responsive service gives me the results needed to run my business. I highly recommend them to any size business.

Keeping The Books has been our bookkeeping service for about 10 years. Great people and great service, and Tobin is a great golfer!!!

Tobin and his team have been with me for over 10 years and make tax season and all my other financial chores bearable. I highly recommend for any size job big or small.

We have been using Keeping The Books for over ten years. Superb service, highly recommend!

I've been w/Keeping The Books for years now and would recommend them to anyone.

Great bookkeeping service!

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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