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Padgett East Bay

Padgett East Bay

Reviews Summary

Consensus: Shinji is a highly skilled and professional CPA, praised for his expertise, responsiveness, and reliability. Clients appreciate his thoroughness, attention to detail, and ability to simplify complex financial tasks. His personalized service, including on-site document handling and clear communication, stands out. Many highlight long-term satisfaction, noting his role in their business growth and success. Consistently described as compassionate, knowledgeable, and efficient, he earns strong recommendations for accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, and tax services.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Sales Tax Compliance
Entity Structuring
Financial Advisory
Virtual CFO
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
QuickBooks
Xero
State-Specific Experience
Multi-state Experience
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
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Sales Tax Compliance
Entity Structuring
Financial Advisory
Virtual CFO
Small Businesses
Individual Taxpayers
QuickBooks
Xero
State-Specific Experience
Multi-state Experience
Local Tax Credits

Contact Information

Address

2121 N California Blvd STE 305

Walnut Creek, California 94596

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

Shinji at Padgett Advisors is spectacular! Very professional, knowledgeable, providing excellent service for our small business bookkeeping, payroll and tax returns to our personal tax returns each year. We have been a client for 14+ years and will continue as a client. Most importantly, we truly appreciate Shinji and how personable and engaging he is every time we meet with him. We highly recommend Shinji at Padgett Advisors East Bay.

Excellent service, professional, detail oriented and incredibly thorough. I love working with Shinji and his very diligent team for my taxes year after year. Would recommend in a heartbeat.

Shinji is an excellent CPA who is well versed with his trade. He is compassionate, and versatile to our business needs. I give Shinji a rating that is above 5 stars.

As a business owner, I need teammates that I can count on for successful outcomes. Shinji has been one of those people who has consistently provided solid accounting and bookkeeping services for the past few years. With his assistance, my business has grown fast and profitably. I highly recommend him for his responsiveness, professionalism, and good quality work.

Shinji has done a great job keeping our small business on the right track. As a CPA, he knows how to get things done, knows the current laws, keeps our records accurate and produces payroll, sales tax requirements as well as income statements and business advice like no other! Though we pay him timely, we owe an incredible amount of appreciation to him for his services as well!

Shinji has been doing my books and tax?s for server years. He makes it easy by coming to my store to pick up documents and drop of previous months book, also makes it really easy to read the monthly statements. Defiantly recommend working with him

My accountant, Shinji Taniguchi from Padgett Business Services in Hayward has provided excellent services for my Physical Therapy Clinic in San Leandro, CA. With Shinji's professional help keeping my financial records in order for taxes, payroll and expenses, I have been able to run a successful small business. As a business owner, it has been a huge time saver to have the professional and reliable help of Padgett Business services for the past 10 years.

Easy to work with very knowledgeable. Answers all my questions. If you need tax expertise this is the place thank you shinji and Amro!

Great Service, been with them for atleast 5 years! Shinji is very responsive & helpful. He's always ready to help.

Excellent service, prompt responses, and very helpful. Made sure all my requests were taken care of in a timely manner.

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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