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Sage Financial Planning

Sage Financial Planning

Reviews Summary

Customers overwhelmingly praise the financial planning service for its compassionate, patient, and detail-oriented approach, especially for first-gen clients and those new to financial literacy. The planner excels at simplifying complex topics, creating tailored budgets, and addressing retirement goals with clarity. Many highlight feeling empowered, understood, and relieved after overcoming initial intimidation or shame about finances. The service is repeatedly recommended for its ability to turn confusion into confidence through personalized, non-judgmental guidance.

About This Listing

Financial Statements
Tax Planning
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
Professional Services
QuickBooks
Xero
GAAP Compliance
Risk Management
State-Specific Experience
Multi-state Experience
Remote Services
Bilingual Services

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

Financial Statements
Tax Planning
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
Professional Services
QuickBooks
Xero
GAAP Compliance
Risk Management
State-Specific Experience
Multi-state Experience
Remote Services
Bilingual Services

Contact Information

Address

4654 Idaho St

San Diego, California 92116

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-4PM
Tuesday 9AM-4PM
Wednesday 9AM-4PM
Thursday 9AM-4PM
Friday 9AM-4PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Worked with Shannon over the course of the year, mainly to get a solid foundation of healthy financial practices and she was amazing! She is a great guide that will leave you feeling confident in your financial strategy. She also has a special passion for working with 1st gen folks who want to build their wealth and gain financial literacy. As someone who had no exposure to any sorts of financial planning or health, I felt taken care of and most importantly, understood. If you're looking for a financial adv

Shannon is a gem in the financial world! She is doing something that no other financial planner is doing: working with first gen folks in their 20's and 30's who are passionate about changing social systems and in need of financial literacy/support. When I met her, I was honestly clueless and insecure about money. I did not have a good foundation, but Shannon changed that. With her kindness, relatability, and expertise, she turned my financial confusion and shame into confidence. Shannon didn't just give m

Meeting with Shannon has given me so much peace. I did not know anything about financial planning and honestly felt embarrassed when I met with Shannon. But meeting with Shannon made me feel secure. She was so patient with me and explained everything that I did not understand and did not feel comfortable with. I am a first-generation college student with no idea of how to plan for my retirement and my family relies on me a lot. Therefore, I was afraid of putting money away because now that I am more stable

Working with Shannon and Sage Financial Planning was incredible! I had never worked with a financial planner before and I always felt hesitancy and was intimidated by finances. Shannon made the process super easy--she is warm and friendly and very detailed. We worked on creating a detailed budget, reviewing my inflows and outflows, and we discussed my financial goals. I would highly recommend Sage Financial for anyone wanting to maximize their finances.

Sage financial has been such a financial relief!! I've never worked with a financial planner because I thought I was managing my finances pretty well, compared to most, but I still couldn't understand why I was unable to save money when I was budgeting pretty well (so I thought). Shannon looked over my finances and went through everything with a fine toothed comb. We discussed exactly where my money was coming and going, the issues that I was having, and then developed a new plan that I was actually able t

Shannon at Sage Financial Planning helped me plan for my retirement. I had to choose between plans offered by my employer and she helped me see the future outcome for both while offering advice and knowledge on both sides. She is compassionate, intelligent, and easy to work with. I recommend her without hesitation! My retirement account is now set and I am on track to reach my goals. Thanks Sage!

I worked with Shannon Fleenor for six months and hope to continue to in the future! I can't recommend her highly enough. Before finding Sage Financial, I interviewed several other financial planners?many of whom dismissed my questions or gave cookie-cutter advice because I'm in my early thirties. Shannon was different from the start. She took the time to ask about my values, my lifestyle goals, and what I wanted my future to look like. She didn't make assumptions. She helped me sift through workplace benef

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.