*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.*
12636 High Bluff Dr #400
San Diego, California 92130
I randomly called The San Diego Tax center to get information of hiring someone to market my business and the forms i was may need for tax purposes. I was fortunate to end up with Daniel Yowell who was extremely knowledgeable and super helpful to explain in detail the form and reason I needed to get it filled. My computor was having glitches as the time and he was kind enough to even send me the links for the forms to make things so much easier. Truly Great service and most appreciated Daniel.
Daniel of the San Diego Tax Center handled our family's joint filing return with care, respect, and professionalism. He made sure to ask all pertinent questions to make our return accurate and get it filed quickly. We highly recommend you go through this office and get the same kind of personal attention for your individual needs. Daniel gets our SEAL (pun intended) of approval and we will refer others to him without a doubt as well as he will have our continued business in years to come. Thank You Again!
When I was looking for someone to do my taxes I wanted someone who understood tax codes and tax law. I wanted someone who would help me keep most of my hard earned money. The valuable information shared on the website alone was golden for me. I knew from that moment I wanted Daniel to prepare my taxes. As an entrepreneur Daniel has been readily available to answer questions I may have regarding my business and taxes. Although I no longer live in the area I refuse to go anywhere else. If you are looking for
Very highly recommend! Daniel Yowell has been doing our taxes the past three years and we've always been impressed with his great work, responsiveness, and promptness in handling our filing. We always feel confident it will be well-handled. Also love the ease in providing documents and that he is able to handle most issues remotely without needing to set up numerous calls or meetings!
For several years I have used online software to do our taxes. I was worried that some money we should have kept in our pocket was being missed by the software and sent to the IRS. This year we chose to meet with Daniel Yowell and put his expertise in tax laws to good use. Daniel is experienced and trustworthy. We couldn't be happier and highly recommend him.
Daniel Yowell, EA at SAN DIEGO TAX CENTER has been doing our tax prep the last few years and we could not be more satisfied. Dan is smart, trust-worthy and very detail-oriented. Although, we no longer live in CA we continue to have Dan prep our taxes, because he is that reliable and an all around likeable guy.
My wife and I always have a great experience with Daniel. He is extremely knowledgeable and well organized. The filing process is convenient and every single year we have been very happy with the end result. I highly recommend Daniel's service to anyone who is looking for a personable and reliable tax professional.
Daniel has done my taxes every year since 2015. I know that there are plenty of online tax preparation and filing apps to do the job, but I'll keep engaging him, as he consistently does my taxes with the utmost professionalism and discipline that can be expected from a former Navy Seal.
I am a French Canadian who moved to San Diego 2 years ago. When it was time to do our taxes I didn't know anybody and found San Diego Tax Center online. I decided to give it a try. Even if there is nothing fun about taxes I was not disappointed. Daniel is really straightforward and keep everything as simple and as efficient as possible. Will keep using him for sure.
Great experience with Daniel. He's very knowledgeable and personable. Took the time to answer all of my complicated questions and even came to my office to drop off copies of my returns. He's handled my company and personal taxes for the past two years and hopefully for the foreseeable future. Highly recommend his service.
Daniel has been preparing my personal and business taxes and offering financial advice to me for the past few years. I have been extremely satisfied with his services and wouldn't take my business to anyone else. Not only has he prepared my taxes for years, he saved me thousands of dollars and a lot of headaches when he petitioned the state of California on my behalf to have them dismiss a tax balance that was completely unjust.
San Diego Tax Center (Dan) provided service that was exceptional.I had a 4 yr prior tax burden that was handled quickly professionally and was done without even having to go into there office ! Outcome was better than expected and would highly recommend Dan and San diego Tax Center for all your tax needs.They are highly professional and go out of there way to make sure you're satisfied .There advice provided was top notch and i will bring all my Tax needs to them in the future ! Thank you Dan and San Diego
Offered great advice to solve an error in tax filing. Saved me thousands of dollar and a lot of stress.
Troy is wonderful and always goes above and beyond for his customers. I have been a customer for 4 years and highly, highly recommend him.
Thank you so much Daniel. I really appreciate the time you spent elaborating on every question that I had. Daniel has a great knowledge and explained all the tax related issues and possibilities regarding an inherent money from outside the US. I recommend this tax office to anybody. Thanks again.
Daniel provides a great tax service and certainly helps my businesses get the most out of our taxes every year. Highly recommend.
Can't say enough good things really. If you want someone that knows how to get the biggest return on your taxes. Dan "The Tax Man" is the man. Best customer service you can ask for as well.
Had a quick question about an assessment from a previous year. Got an answer over the phone in no time! Highly recommended.
Daniel is great. Very knowledgeable and local.
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.