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Mother Lode Bookkeeping Inc

Mother Lode Bookkeeping Inc

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
QuickBooks
Local Tax Credits
Remote Services
Years of Practice
CPA License
In-person Support

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
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
QuickBooks
Local Tax Credits
Remote Services
Years of Practice
CPA License
In-person Support

Contact Information

Address

207 W D St

Encinitas, California 92024

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM-4:30PM
Tuesday 8AM-4:30PM
Wednesday 8AM-4:30PM
Thursday 8AM-4:30PM
Friday 8AM-4:30PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

My husband and I have used Jay at Mother Lode for a few years now and both have nothing but the best things to say. I have 1099 income and am not the *most* organized person, but Jay is always patient and takes the time to explain things. We very much trust his expertise and always refer Mother Lode to friends. Highly recommend this tax season :)

James is the man!! Many years ago, I was audited and James helped me navigate a rough situation. Since that event, he has been my guy. That was over 15yrs ago, and since then many things in the tax code have changed, and James always knows what those changes are and how they affect my family and I directly. Now that is personal service!!! My family is forever grateful for all of your years of dedication to our wellbeing!! DeGroot family loves you James!!

I've been a Cal Ellisor customer for over 20+ years. After his retirement I was handed over to other accountants. It was a good experience until this year. My emails went unanswered for weeks, I missed the deadline to contribute to my IRA because I was waiting for a response, and then I got a bill from the IRS for late filing.

Nothing short of awful. My taxes were filed here for several years over the course of about a decade. I thought James was the guy to go to when I needed help with filing. After an audit that claimed I owe over $13,000 in taxes, James and Richard have been of almost no help. They told me to "call the IRS" because there is nothing they can do. After telling a coworker, he suggested contacting a CPA in North Carolina who said he could help me. I also spoke to another CPA locally who called the IRS with me, and

I recently reached out to Rich for some services. He explained that he would be happy to provide the service but might be delayed because I reached out during a peak business time. Rich not only had the service done much sooner than expected but he did it with excellent communication and he was a pleasure to do business with. I will happily do business with Mother Lode and I?m glad my friend, who has been a loyal customer for years, recommended their services!

We have referred our clients with very complex tax matters to this office. They always do a great job and are very thorough. We have used Jean Smith and James Sherman, but honestly everyone who works there is a pleasure to work with.

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.