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Shalini Gupta & Associates, PA

Shalini Gupta & Associates, PA

Reviews Summary

The consensus highlights exceptional service, with frequent praise for professionalism, knowledge, and responsiveness. Many reviewers appreciate the thorough tax planning, proactive advice, and long-term reliability. The team is described as meticulous, friendly, and dedicated, often going above expectations. Some note excellent mentorship and a supportive office environment. While most ratings are 5 stars, one mentions satisfactory service with minor room for improvement. Overall, strong recommendations for both business and personal accounting needs.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
International Tax
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Government Contractors
Non-profits
Real Estate
Professional Services
QuickBooks
Years of Practice
CPA License

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

Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Budgeting
Forecasting
Financial Advisory
International Tax
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Government Contractors
Non-profits
Real Estate
Professional Services
QuickBooks
Years of Practice
CPA License

Contact Information

Address

7226 Lee Deforest Dr # 201

Columbia, Maryland 21046

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 9AM-5:30PM
Tuesday 9AM-5:30PM
Wednesday 9AM-5:30PM
Thursday 9AM-5:30PM
Friday 9AM-5:30PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

I worked as an intern at Shalini Gupta & Associates, and truly thrived under the mentorship and guidance of Mr. Mahajan. His inquisitive teaching method forced me to reevaluate my own ideals in a manner that better aligned with my goals and had a direct impact on the quality of work I was completing. I learned hard skills in the realms of Accounting and Finance, while simultaneously grasping the soft skills surrounding how to appropriately navigate the corporate workplace. After interning over the course o

I had the pleasure of interning at SGA CPA this summer, and it was a truly invaluable experience. Mr. Rajiv Mahajan is not only incredibly skilled and knowledgeable in his field, but his passion for his work is evident. I was able to learn a great deal from him, and he always took the time to ensure I understood the intricacies of the tasks at hand. The office environment is equally impressive?it's a beautifully designed space that fosters productivity and creativity. The team at SGA CPA is welcoming and su

SGA is the best thing that happened to our business as both Rajiv and Shalini are very pro active and help us with every aspect of the business you can think of and go that extra mile to give a hassle free experience. We have been with them for over 15 long years now and highly recommend them to any business looking for a great CPA firm.

Shalini Gupta and associates is an excellent choice for getting your business and personal taxes done as well as getting solid financial advise. Rajiv and the team are very professional and thorough to ensure high quality work and great support once you become a client.

Shalini Gupta and Associates are our CPA for more than 15 years starting from forming the company. They have always been professional, prompt and responsive to our needs. I have always found Rajiv not only knowledgeable but also very helpful too. We recommend him highly.

I have been client of SGA for over 15 years. Very satisfied with their service on both accounting and tax work. They review my financials regularly for my business. This really helps and makes numbers easy for me to understand and follow. Staff is every helpful as well. Highly recommend.

Rajiv Mahajan was very friendly and we are very happy with his service on our tax return 2018. He is very informative and provided useful hints on tax planning. Very very satisfied with the service provided by Rajiv as well as Shalini Gupta and Associates. I will recommend him to our friends. FIVE stars for his service with no hesitation- Meenakshi A. Chellaiah

This was the first time I have used SGA. I am pleased to say I was very surprised on the dedication and all the hard work they put into my taxes. Not only did they go above and beyond my expectations but they also taught me how to save money in the future. SGA is a very professional company which I will be definitely using again for not only my taxes but also anything financially related. I would highly recommend using these guys!!!! Thanks for all the help!!!!

I worked with Rajiv and he helped put my mind at ease after receiving letter about a potential tax liability from 3 years prior. Good work, nice people and very knowledgeable.

Happy with his service. Helps with tax planning, not just tax preparation. Good personality and easy to talk to. Will take care of all your needs.

Outstanding professionalism and quality service. I had detailed business questions that were answered in beneficial ways. Also comprehensive advice for work with local church. Very friendly service. Highly recommend!

Very meticulous, prompt, and prideful in the work they do and produce.

Office manager said she chose one of the options for our deal and seems to be following through with it! I hope we can move past this she does an excellent job I?ll put four up.

Rajiv is quite thorough and detail oriented when going through the business reports and tax analysis.

Always nice to meet Mr. Rajib. Last five years he makes time for me for all of my financial related questions and helping me to make right decision

Very knowledgeable and professional staff. Provided many options for tax efficiency and future planning. Would certainly recommend.

I've had excellent experience with this firm and will be using them for future accounting needs.

SG&A helped my business get organized just in time for taxes! Thank you!

Very nice group of knowledgeable people. Very informative and discussed every options with me. Maximum possible return.

Responsive and knowledgeable.

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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