*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*
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.
*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*
*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*
*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*
*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*
4420 Hotel Cir Ct Suite 230
San Diego, California 92108
Steve Arsulich is a great tax preparer and an even better person. My wife and I have always used Turbo Tax because we have very simple W2's. We though we were getting the most return possible but Steve was able to shed some light that we were shorting ourselves each year. We received a very large return this year and it is all thanks to Steve. He also will be taking care of one of my best friends for the 3rd year. His taxes are extremely complicated but no problem for Steve. I highly recommend Steve a
I had an issue with my CA taxes and sought professional help at O'Connor's. I called and was connected with Steve. He understood my issue immediately. He explained that for my particular situation, he would have to do a lot of billable, but redundant work in order to file my taxes. Since he thought it wasn't very difficult, he told me how I could resolve the issue myself. We talked for about twenty minutes and he didn't charge me a dime. While I can't comment on the quality of their service (since I didn't
Steve Arsulich @ O?Connor?s Tax Service is the most knowledgeable and helpful individual I have ever met. I brought him a nightmare of a few years taxes where I had bought a house, had investments, sold a house and a few other issues. I think any other tax professional would have either said no or scolded me for the mess I had. Steve was very kind and professional and he took his time with me and assured me that he could straighten my whole mess out and get me up to date. They are not only the best at w
Steve and his crew work diligently to cover every aspect of my tax review and preparation. He also feels it is important to educate his customers along the way and keep us up to date on changes to the tax code. He even found mistakes in previous returns and was able to get us a nice refund. I would highly recommend Steve and his team!
I had the pleasure of working with O'Connor's Tax Service, specifically Steve Arsulich, for the first time last year. I will continue working with him and his company for years to come. Steve is very knowledgeable on small business tax advantages which ensured me I was getting my return handled properly. I look forward to working with Steve in the future.
We have used O'Conner's tax service for many years for my business and my personal income tax. Everyone there is friendly and they get the job done right in a timely fashion. When I call with a question they get me to the correct individual that has answers to my questions. They help make decisions in my business because they know the most current tax laws. I have been in business for 32 years and had a lot of experience with both bad and good accountants, trust me these people are good and they treat you
Steve Arsulich is the best. He is so knowledgeable and helpful. Steve will do whatever he can to make sure you don't owe the IRS tons of money. This is not just like other places. They are genuine people and really care about the business that they do. I highly recommend them!
Doug Barker and Steve Arsulich the managing partners know taxes! I have referred them numerous clients over the years from simple tax returns to somewhat complicated issues including capital gains tax, probate and trust administration issues.
They do a great job on your taxes, and the team is very organized, and professional. I didn't have any issues with them, and I was able to get a good settlement. Thank you guys so much.
Steve and his associates are the best and most knowledgeable I have ever come in contact with. O'Connors tax service doesn't just save you money it seems like it pays you once you see all they can do for you.
Steve is the person who will take the time with you on a small issue. Steve has the professional expertise to handle complicated business taxes and personal returns. I would give him six stars if it was available.
Steve is easy to work with, very professional and takes the pain away from doing taxes. O'Connor's is my recommendation to anyone looking for help with their taxes.
Based on the other positive reviews I decided to give them a call about a tax question I had. They responded right away and they were very helpful. Thank you!
Steve at O'Connor's is an excellent tax consultant. I highly recommend him and his staff.
Steve is really professional , knowledgeable and a kind person - Also his office staff is very professional and kind as well . I am so thankful with the person who gave me his contact information.
Best tax person! Highly, highly recommended! Everything you need for your taxes: experience , fair prices and great outcome! Thank you!
Working with Peggy was a pleasure. Our return was prepared quickly and, most importantly, we got money back.
Steve Arsulich is a great tax resource. Highly recommended.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.