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Mission Street Wealth Planning

Mission Street Wealth Planning

Reviews Summary

Clients consistently praise the financial advisor's expertise, patience, and responsiveness, highlighting decades of experience in wealth planning and retirement strategies. Many emphasize feeling secure, well-informed, and cared for, with proactive communication and tailored advice. The advisor's ability to simplify complex topics, anticipate needs, and build trust over long-term relationships is repeatedly commended. Satisfaction stems from confident retirement transitions, estate planning, and investment management, with strong recommendations for those seeking personalized, empathetic financial guidance.

About This Listing

Tax Planning
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Risk Management
Years of Practice

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
Risk Management
Years of Practice

Contact Information

Address

177 E Colorado Blvd 2nd floor

Pasadena, California 91105

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 10AM-4PM
Tuesday 10AM-4PM
Wednesday 10AM-4PM
Thursday 10AM-4PM
Friday 10AM-4PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

We have been working with Mission Street Wealth for several years now. Gary has been receptive, empathetic, and a responsive to all our questions and concerns. We debated a long time if working with a financial advisor was a worthwhile investment for us. I'm so happy we decided to move forward. I would highly recommend Mission Street Wealth for financial advisement, wealth planning, and considering your future estate decisions. Gary's decades of experience and genuine caring manner has been key to our confi

Mission Street Wealth has helped me feel confident with my financial planning, estate planning, and my investments over almost 20 years. Gary and I have discussed all the transitions from my high wage earning years and focused investment period leading into my retirement in the nursing career. Having the confidence it would be a safe retirement for me was most important and we were ready! It has been 9 years of retirement without worry and continued strong relationship with Mission Street Wealth. I apprec

Switching to Mission Street Wealth was the right decision for me. Gary is very patient in explaining even the most complex things and listens just as well to our goals and interests. Gary has also been proactive to anticipate and reach out when we have needed his expertise. We couldn't be more happy and recommend Mission Street without reservation.

I've worked with Gary and Mission Street Planning for several years and have had a great experience. Gary is extremely patient and responsive, which is such a nice feeling knowing I have someone I can trust to go to with any questions and concerns. He is knowledgeable and caring making him a great partner and person to work with!

Gary Pia's long standing financial planning expertise has given us a peace about how our savings and retirement funds are protected and invested. We are secure in the knowledge that our cash flow needs will meet.

I highly recommend Gary Pia. He is the ultimate professional. We have total confidence in his ability and commitment to ensuring that our financial planning is the best it can be. He cares deeply for his clients and that makes working with him a real joy.

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.