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Serenity Financial Planning - Financial Planning in La Jolla, California

Serenity Financial Planning - Financial Planning in La Jolla, California

Reviews Summary

Clients consistently praise Susan's extensive experience (25-30+ years), deep financial knowledge, and personalized approach. She's commended for her professionalism, patience, and clear communication, regularly reviewing portfolios and explaining complex matters. Many highlight her trustworthiness in managing assets long-term, with several noting significant portfolio growth under her care. Clients appreciate her responsiveness, family-like treatment, and ability to tailor strategies to individual needs, especially during retirement planning. Her dedication to clients' best interests and ability to simplify financial decisions are recurring themes across decades-long relationships.

About This Listing

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.*

Contact Information

Address

16870 W Bernardo Dr #400

San Diego, California 92127

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Tuesday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Wednesday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Thursday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Friday 8:30AM-4:30PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

I retired in 2002 and my IRA was handled by a large firm designated by my former employer. In 2003, Susan spoke to my club about various kinds of investments. I was impressed by her knowledge, so I asked her to review my retirement portfolio. Sadly, my portfolio happened to contain much of what she had advised at the meeting not to have. So, I asked Susan to take over managing my portfolio. Within 10 years, my portfolio more than doubled ? despite my monthly $1500 withdrawals. When my husband retired i

Susan Alefi's 30+ years experience, knowledge, hard work, professionalism and warm, friendly personality is a perfect fit for me. She is easy to work with, accommodating my schedule and clearly communicates, answering my questions and explaining when I don't understand. She has helped me move my financial portfolio from my previous institution that I felt just wasn't paying attention to my account, to her company "Serenity Financial Planning". Susan has "cleaned up" my portfolio and invested me in financia

It has been my pleasure working with Susan over the past few years. She truly cares about the financial needs of her clients and always gives it her all. She is extremely knowledgable and treats me like family. I am so grateful to have her for my financial advisor.

Susan has been my financial planner for over 20 years. We review my investments at least once a year, and we figure out what is best for my family together. Susan is always available when I have a question. She is a pleasure to work with!

It has been my pleasure to have Susan Alefi as my financial advisor for the past six years. To this day, I remain totally impressed by her knowledge, professionalism, expertise, and foresight. She has performed her duties with great understanding of my personal situation, coupled with the patience of a saint! It is my honor to heartily endorse Susan and the financial service and guidance she provides.

We have been working with Susan for several years now. Not only is she knowledgeable in her field, but she always takes the time to give us the best service & looks out for our best interest! I would totally recommend using her!! She is an excellent financial planner!!

Susan and I have been working together for several years. The care, patience and professionalism she uses to watch over my finances gives me great peace of mind and confidence.

My husband and I have worked with Susan for many years and she has managed all our assets. We feel very fortunate to have found a person we trust implicitly who has excellent financial skills

I have been with Ms. Alefi since she started in the San Francisco Bay Area. Well over 25yrs now. She is very knowledgeable and has always been looking out for my best interest. She is easy to communicate with and if she doesn't have the answer to your questions, she will find it for you. Now that I'm nearing retirement, I know I will be in good hands.

Susan has been a pleasure to work with! I've been a client for many years. She always communicates clearly, carries things out efficiently, and walks me through everything.

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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