Back to Directory
La Costa Tax & Accounting

La Costa Tax & Accounting

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Startups
Individual Taxpayers

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
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Startups
Individual Taxpayers

Contact Information

Address

2304 Altisma Way

Carlsbad, California 92009

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-5PM

Customer Reviews

Raj is one of the nicest gentleman I've met. He answered all of my questions, and went above and beyond. He is extremely professional, flexible, and kind. I will be utilizing his services every year.

One of the best tax experts that I have ever worked with. Raj is knowledgeable, fast and accurate. That's exactly what I needed from a tax accountant. ????

La Costa Tax was such a pleasure to work with! La Costa Tax was always and easily accessible by phone/email. CN Sridhar of La Costa Tax, in particular, was extremely knowledgeable, detailed and fully comprehensive. CN Sridhar is a true professional and turned the process of tax filing into a very straightforward, simple and manageable process. Our family will continue to work with La Costa Tax year to year, and highly recommends their services for tax needs and services!

I recommend La Costa Tax & Accounting for customized tax filing. Dr Sridhar is very helpful and patient in answering all the questions that first time tax filers usually have.

La Costa has been super helpful for both myself and my family - I got a referral from a co-worker and it really has been a breath of fresh air to work with them. I think a lot of complicated concepts and ideas are broken down to easily understand and I have gotten thorough support on how to plan for the coming years to save on taxes or be more efficient and how to grow my family wealth. For example, bundling my charitable contributions, utilizing a backdoor roth-ira and moving away from strictly dividend i

Raj was amazing and very informative. I highly recommend him if you?re looking for a great tax guy. ??

Dr. Sridhar prepared my taxes for me very efficiently and seamlessly. He was also available to speak whenever I had questions. I was so pleased with his knowledge, his expertise and the fast turn around. I will definitely be using his services for the years to come. Very satisfied client.

Used the service for a few years now and it has been a wonderful experience. I had simple and complicated tax returns that the La Costa Team made easy to process. Great level of communication and much better than doing it on TurboTax or hiring those chain places. Can't suggest reaching out enough if you want to work with friendly and very supportive team who care about customer support and service.

All your tax needs in one place! La Costa does an excellent job from standard to complicated filings. They are excellent communicators and always go above & beyond! You have a true partner when work with La Costa Tax & Accounting!

Prior to COVID, I've always done taxes by taking my paperwork to a tax office. With La Costa Tax, the last 2 years I've used them, the process was easy, and able to be done completely remotely. All questions and emails were responded to quickly!

Courteous and detailed oriented. All the steps clearly explained and Lacosta makes sure do look at your situation as a whole to determine the best tax strategy. Highly recommend.

Helped me quickly address an audit and have been really great to deal with all around. I highly recommend!!

Detail Oriented and knowledgeable. Takes time to explain filing requirements.

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.