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LampPost Planning

LampPost Planning

Reviews Summary

Clients consistently praise the financial advisor for exceptional service, highlighting his expertise, patience, and clear communication. Many emphasize his ability to create tailored plans for retirement, budgeting, and long-term goals, ensuring financial security. His responsiveness, honesty, and dedication to clients' best interests are frequently mentioned, with long-term clients expressing deep trust. Reviews note his skill in simplifying complex financial topics and mediating family discussions. Multiple clients credit him with early retirement success and recommend him highly for personalized, reliable financial guidance.

About This Listing

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Insurance Agencies
Risk Management
Multi-state Experience

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

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Insurance Agencies
Risk Management
Multi-state Experience

Contact Information

Address

20 Knoll Ridge Way Suite 2

Oakland, California 94619

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 have been working with Dustin at LampPost Planning for some time. He is always responsive and very knowledgeable. He consistently takes the time to answer all my questions, advises adequately and makes sure I feel comfortable before any final decisions. No matter the different circumstances one faces at times, he is willing to listen and help build a plan that will work with you. He is highly recommended.

My husband and I have been working with Dustin for a few years now and he is the best! He has really helped us figure out how to budget our money and create structure with our finances. He is very patient, organized and thorough with his work and friends of ours who also work with Dustin have said the same. Can?t recommend him enough!

We are in great financial shape - and I give most of the credit to Dustin. Over the past ten+ years, he?s been meticulous and thoughtful about our finances. He?s patient and incredibly knowledgeable - even helped us retire early in our 40?s! I appreciate that he really listens and creates a custom plan to support you at every stage of life based on your specific goals. We?ve referred many of our good friends to him and they all rave about him. If you need a trustworthy, reliable and effective financial adv

I feel so fortunate to have found a truly exceptional financial advisor in Dustin Ma. After a number of disappointing experiences with advisors who failed to help me understand and navigate my long-term planning needs, a friend recommended Dustin. I found him deeply knowledgeable, precise and clear in his communication, innovative in exploring alternatives, and supremely patient --explaining options and scenarios to me until I felt fully confident in the decisions we made together. Dustin is financial exp

I've been working with Dustin for over 18 years, and there's no one else I trust more. He's always upfront about my finances and I know he has my best interests in mind. I cannot recommend LampPost Planning enough!

I have used Dustin and his team for 18+ years and trust him completely with all of my financial planning needs. If you are looking for a wealth of knowledge in regards to your finances, insurance, etc., needs, Dustin is your man!

Dustin is kind and listens carefully to what my needs are for financial growth. Finance is a difficult conversation to navigate with my husband and Dustin acts like a mediator and finds solutions that works for us.

Dustin Ma came highly recommended from a friend of ours. Our experience the last two years has been very positive. Dustin has helped us as we transition to retirement, is very communicative and professional.

Dustin is super considerate and patient with his clients knowledge of Finance. Dustin explains and forecast all possible avenues of making money. Holla!

Dustin has transformed the way I think about my finances, both personally and professionally. His guidance has been instrumental in not only improving my personal financial health but also in the successful running of my business. Dustin?s ability to connect on a personal level and his big-picture approach give me peace of mind, knowing that my financial future is in great hands.

Dustin Ma is an exceptional financial advisor whose expertise empowered us to retire early. He crafted a tailored investment plan that addresses our needs at every stage of life. His insights and guidance have been invaluable, ensuring our financial security and peace of mind. Highly recommended for anyone seeking financial success!

My wife and have been working with Dustin for years now with our Financial wellness and goals. He always has our best interest in mind and is helping us grow our finances for our family and future. He listens to all our questions and concerns and creates realistic plans for us to achieve. I would highly recommend working with Dustin for organizing your finances and so much more. Thank you, Dustin for all you do for us!

I've been working with Dustin for almost 20 years, and he has never steered me wrong. He has always been honest and upfront about my investments, and has continually gone above and beyond. If you're looking for someone to help with your financial future, I strongly encourage you to contact LampPost Planning.

Dustin Ma at LampPost Planning has guided me through every step to secure my financial and personal future. I'm thrilled to recommend LampPost Planning. Wish there were more than five stars!?. Lamppost would get them all from me!

I?ve been a client with Dustin for over 20 years now. I feel totally confident in his financial consulting. It has been my pleasure to feel safe and secure with my financial savings.

I've used Dustin (and LampPost Planning) for my financial planning over half a decade now - and I've never been so glad to have an experienced guide during such unprecedented times. He takes great care to help me build towards my own goals, and I've learned so much from him in such a short time. If you're in the market for a planner, I couldn't recommend him more.

Dustin is very thorough and sensitive to my needs. He has helped me I so many ways over the years . I really appreciate his caring and expertise!!

Always patient and clear with financial advising. Excellent at helping clients plan for and prepare end-of-life wills and directives and making sure everything is prepared in case of the unthinkable. Always follows up fast and worth the reasonable fees.

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.