Leon Nazarian, CPA, JD

Leon Nazarian, CPA, JD

Reviews Summary

Consensus: Clients consistently praise this tax CPA for exceptional expertise, professionalism, and responsiveness. He excels in both tax preparation and legal advice, offering clear explanations, strategic guidance, and thorough attention to detail. Many highlight his integrity, transparency, and fair pricing, with repeat clients emphasizing his reliability and proactive approach. His versatility in handling personal, business, and complex tax/legal matters is frequently noted. Highly recommended for his knowledge, efficiency, and trustworthy service.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Audit
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Estate and Trust Tax
International Tax
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
GAAP Compliance
Internal Controls
Remote Services
Years of Practice
CPA License

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
Audit
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Estate and Trust Tax
International Tax
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
GAAP Compliance
Internal Controls
Remote Services
Years of Practice
CPA License

Contact Information

Address

730 Arizona Ave Ste 200

Santa Monica, California 90401

Hours

Sunday 11AM-1PM
Monday 9AM-7PM
Tuesday 9AM-7PM
Wednesday 9AM-7PM
Thursday 9AM-7PM
Friday 9AM-6PM
Saturday 11AM-3PM

Customer Reviews

Reasonably priced tax accountant and preparer services here?Leon Nazarian offers solid value for what you get. He?s knowledgeable, straightforward, and responsive. Great for both business and personal tax needs, especially if you?re looking for strategic guidance without overpaying. Would recommend to other small business owners or professionals needing reliable tax support

Leon Nazarian is a persistent, methodical, and punctual attorney who truly goes above and beyond for his clients. His attention to detail and dedication to resolving issues efficiently made a significant difference in my case. He was always available to provide guidance, clearly explained every step of the process, and ensured that all matters were handled professionally. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a knowledgeable and reliable attorney.

Great experience with Leon from the very beginning. Extremely responsive and happy to work through some tricky tax situations with me. Overall, a very reliable tax accountant CPA service.

I?m incredibly grateful for the honesty and professionalism. When reviewing my financials, they pointed out that I wasn?t required to file FBAR ? something they could have easily left out, and I would have never known. Instead, they chose transparency over profit, which speaks volumes about their integrity. It?s rare to find someone so trustworthy and thorough in their work. Highly recommended!

Highly recommend Leon Nazarian for tax preparation services. I've been a customer for 5 or 6 years now. His prices are fair and his services timely and excellent!

I have been a client of Leon Nazarian for over the decade. Leon is knowledgeable CPA/ Tax Preparer, remarkable specialist in his areas of expertise and easy to work with. I value his prompt response, reliable professional advices and friendly and caring approach. Leon is very efficient and trustworthy person and and pleasure to deal with. Highly recommended!!!

Leon Nazarian was extremely helpful in resolving some tricky trust tax return issues. Very professional, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the process. Leon took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure all the details were handled correctly.

Leon Nazarian is Qualified Tax Accountant in Santa Monica. I am very pleased with his service. He is very knowledgeable and responsible person. I would definitely recommend him to my friends. Thank you.

I was in a bit of a bind recently and so grateful that I found Leon in Santa Monica. He responded quickly & helped resolve my issue. He is a trustworthy tax accountant CPA that I would highly recommend using!

Leon Nazarian is Proactive and diligent Tax Accountant CPA and Tax Preparer in Santa Monica. He did outstanding job on our company taxes. Thank you very much! I will definitely recommend your service.

Hi tax attorney Leon was very helpful and extremely knowledgeable experience answering all questions totally professional, reasonable prices excellent service we would definitely use him again saved us a lot

Leon has been my CPA for the past few years. Recently advised me on the interpretation of a legal document last minute with a quick response that truly helped me in a bind and feel confident about the situation. A great CPA that fixed the complete mess from a previous CPA and got me up do date on my taxes. Very knowledgeable, keeps you on track, responds promptly and really take the time to explain anything you may have a question about. As a sole proprietor, he has been the person to help me the most on t

We've been working with Leon, our tax CPA and lawyer for about three years. His direct approach and thoroughness have made handling tax and legal matters easy. He even helped us open and relocate businesses between states?twice! If you need a diligent tax pro to guide you through complexities, Leon is your guy!

Exceptional CPA and Attorney-at-Law I had the pleasure of working with Leon Nazarian, JD, Attorney-at-Law to handle my personal and business tax returns, and I couldn't be happier with the level of service he provided. Leon's professionalism, extensive knowledge, and genuine kindness truly set him apart. From the very beginning, Leon demonstrated his expertise in tax matters, ensuring that every aspect of my returns was handled accurately and efficiently. His attention to detail and thorough understanding o

Mr. Nazarian's service for me has been wholly professional, competent, timely, friendly, and fair. What more could you want?

Leon Nazarian is a proactive and versatile Business Management Advisor. He is also a competent Tax Accountant / Tax Preparer CPA. I am having some business related legal issue and he is advising me on its resolution as a Tax Relief Attorney satisfactorily.

I got in touch with Leon Nazarian this year on end of April and I am very happy with the results he provided, as they prioritized my best interests.

Mr. Nazaryan is an excellent choice for your legal and taxation needs. He is a versatile attorney and a skilled CPA who pays attention to details. He will guide you through each step of the process with professionalism and expertise. I was very impressed by his services and work ethics.

"Once again, Leon surpassed my expectations! As a repeat client, his unwavering dedication and stellar legal expertise remain unmatched. Leon?s responsiveness and attentiveness consistently reaffirm why I continue to trust his exceptional service."

Leon is knowledgeable and service-oriented. Where many others led me astray with partial or plain incorrect information Leon clarified - of fact he?s never denied a request of mine for information nor, worse, demanded payment before answering as do others. With an impressive education he is a go to source for tax inquiries!

Leon has been great as the accountant and legal advice for my small consulting business. Very responsive and proactive, which is what I need.

Mr Nazarian explains legal and financial documents in a simple way that makes sense to an untrained ear. I will continue to work with him for all my tax needs!

I use Leon for help with accounting for my business, Leon is very knowledgeable and takes the time to explain anything that I don't understand. Very reasonable in price and responds to calls and emails quickly.

Leon, is an extremely knowledgeable, responsive and diligent Tax CPA preparer.

Leon is a knowledgeable CPA and affordable one too!

Punctual and precise ? exactly what?s needed out of a great CPA.

It was great working with Leon, he is so professional and efficient, and also speaks several languages. He clarified some things to me and answered all my silly questions so I am not afraid of taxes anymore!

Leon is lovely to work with and above all trust worthy! Definitely recommend

Adequately qualified competent and well-rounded Tax Accountant in Santa Monica. Highly recommend!

Leon is a great Tax Preparer Accountant CPA and an Attorney. He goes above and beyond!

Good tax accountant. Professional and knowledgeable. I'll be using Leon again.

I?m glad I was able to find a good tax CPA for when I started my sole proprietorship in 2022. Would recommend.

Knowledgeable and versatile attorney Highly recommend.

Fast response tax preparer CPA

Helped me out right away, very consistent and on top of everything.

Well-informed, responsive and accurate Tax Accountant CPA

Knowledgeable Tax CPA in Santa Monica

Good Tax Accountant CPA

The best of the best

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.