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Pacific Northwest Tax Service

Pacific Northwest Tax Service

Reviews Summary

Overall, the service receives mostly positive feedback, with many praising its professionalism, expertise, and ability to handle complex tax situations. Customers appreciate the responsive, patient, and knowledgeable staff, often highlighting significant savings and clear guidance. However, a few negative reviews cite poor communication, unaddressed errors, and condescending behavior, particularly regarding refunds and customer service. Most recommend the service for small business owners, though some strongly advise against it due to inconsistent experiences.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Audit
Business Consulting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
Real Estate
QuickBooks
Local Tax Credits

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
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
Real Estate
QuickBooks
Local Tax Credits

Contact Information

Address

2100 NE Broadway Ste. 105

Portland, Oregon 97232

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday 9AM-5PM
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday 9AM-12PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

I had Pacific Northwest Tax Service do my 2020 taxes. If you remember, that was pandemic times. The service at the time was great! We were able to to meet online and do everything mostly virtual. Fast forward to 2024. I got a letter in the mail that I was getting audited by the State of Oregon (for the 2020 tax year). It had to do with a mistake where more taxes were paid to California and less to Oregon. (I'd moved states that year). The person who prepared my taxes in 2020 no longer worked at the compan

Will never take any business here. Terrible communicators and unable to perform even the most basic of customer service interactions without being extremely petty/condescending. Here?s the TLDR of my interaction with them and the full run down below that. TLDR - Made an appt on their portal 10 days in advance, paid $300 retainer. Realized I made a mistake, called the next day to politely request a refund (9 days out from appt). Got the run around for a MONTH and they retained $75 because apparently oc

I gave them a second chance and they have won my business. I am a partner at Roofing Company and they have been great with walking us through our first full profitable year. Responsive & efficient. I have been working with Jasper only and am very happy to have him advising on tax & revenue questions. I strongly recommend giving them a chance if you own a small business and are looking to speak with a professional about getting started and progressing.

I made an appointment with Pacific NW Tax on Broadway for my mom, who had a very complicated return. She was also running late this year filing and was overwhelmed by some new tax complications--a new rental property and inherited stocks. I met her there with April, who was very patient and never rushed her, but went over everything in great detail. She filed an extension right away so my mom could relax. We had a review appointment with Baruch, who was wonderful about explaining the return. He also alerte

I have had my taxes done by Nancy for the last two years and I couldn't be happier. I have a somewhat complicated tax situation, involving rent, airbnb, and being self-employed, but she helped me to understand what I need to keep track of, and how to calculate all the different things that split up my expenses. The office is in a great spot, and people there are always friendly. I used to go to H&R Block, but felt like they were always rushing me, and not willing to explain what all I needed to add up / e

I have been using PNW Tax Service, specifically Nancy Aleshire for over 5 years now. She's honest, accurate, able to handle multiple facets of taxes including S Corp & Charitable organization set up, and timely with responses during the busy season. She is the person I trust to get the job done every year. Ask for her, she'll do a great job.

EDIT: This firm found the time to reply to my review, but not to my emails or phone calls. All fees were paid, including a few that, ?magically appeared? after Mr. Valenzuela left the business. All information was provided that was requested, I also tried to schedule an appointment while I was in Portland last March so that we could meet in person...but they couldn?t handle that either, (I was there for a week). Original review: The worst. Go anywhere else. They first screwed up my taxes in 2015, that ?pre

Very helpful and professional. I came to them with what I thought was a complicated mess. Nancy took my initial call, she gave me wonderful advise and told me what to bring. Jasper patiently helped me unravel and correct a folder full of paperwork, getting me back on track. Many thanks don't even begin to portray my gratitude.

We love Pacific Northwest Tax, they have been more than just tax preparation for us. Their staff is the best and the kindest group you will find. They have also saved us a lot of money over the years.

Was worried about my payroll taxes, being a sole proprietor, but Jasper made quick and easy work of my forms even with my mistakes in accounting. I would recommend this service to any small business owners who need professional tax services, hands down

Amazing, high level of service. Content expertise and firm grasp on tax trends and emerging change in laws and code. Over ten years Ms April and her crew take care of me, teach me.

Spent $1250 for a married filing jointly + sole proprietor. Caught and corrected several obvious errors myself in the process. Reps were pushy, lacked empathy, and cost me an extra $6k in tax payments.

Great experience with these guys. They got the work done fast when the deadline was near and had great pricing on top of it. Gary A. saved me more money than competitors could.

They Came Through for me in a Time of Need and addressed an Issue I had.

Gary is a rockstar! Was so very helpful!

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.

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