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SmallBizMaven Bookkeeping & Accounting Consulting

SmallBizMaven Bookkeeping & Accounting Consulting

Reviews Summary

The reviews consistently highlight exceptional expertise in accounting and bookkeeping, particularly with QuickBooks setup and training. Many praise the ability to fix complex financial issues, establish efficient systems, and provide tailored solutions for small businesses. The professional is commended for thoroughness, teaching skills, and helping clients become self-sufficient with their finances. There's strong emphasis on problem-solving, organization, and creating streamlined processes that lead to long-term financial clarity and operational improvements. The consensus shows high satisfaction with the level of professionalism, attention to detail, and practical guidance provided.

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

460 Boulevard Way

Oakland, California 94610

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

My books were resurrected from the dead and neglected. Blythe came, conducted a thorough interview to really try to understand my small but complicated venture, forced me to supply and organize all kinds of important historical docs, set up a brand new streamlined bookkeeping flow, and most importantly got my quickbooks to a point where I can actually open it and obtain actionable information. She will make you do your homework. But it will be worth it.

Blythe's background in accounting systems set-up is invaluable. We started as a spin-off of a large company, and our business began with 10 employees. Blythe quickly set-up a cloud based accounting system our company and trained our staff in the basics of bookkeeping with tools for best practices. She also taught us how to be a ?paperless? company as we are in multiple locations around the country. Blythe is a knowledgeable, reliable and detail oriented Bookkeeper. Blythe's support is invaluable to our com

Blythe helped fix our books after our previous accountant created multiple chaotic problems for us including effectively having us operating under 2 mutually exclusive business entities at once. She fixed our past books (which were very very messed up), trained our staff on in house bookkeeping, organization and filing techniques, and helped us establish good habits and financial planning for our future books to avoid issues. We are now doing our books in house an everything is running smoothly thanks to Bl

Blythe is the best. They worked with me to get my small business books in order and also trained me to do the monthly maintenance, data entry, etc. They were willing to tune their level of involvement to suit my budget and the specific needs of my business. Always great advice and reality checks on the state of my business affairs. Highly recommend getting in touch with Blythe and getting your books straight!

Blythe has been a godsend. She set up our entire accounting system from scratch--she got us set up on QuickBooks, created a filing and organizational system for us, and even gave us tips for how to increase our credit lines and other accounting best practices. Unlike a lot of bookkeepers, Blythe took the time to teach us the new system so we could use it ourselves, which is great for a small company on a budget. She is incredibly professional, and a great teacher. Plus, she is a certified QuickBooks Pro Adv

Jennifer spearheaded the entire administrative revamp of our company. She was able to clean up and audit all of our older AR issues recovering 90% of monies due all while implementing our entirely new accounting software package and developing operational standards for said program. She is extremely conscientious and treats all of her business actions with the utmost professionalism and takes ownership of any issue that arises. I trust her consultations and together we have been able to lower all of our ope

Blythe understands what it takes to set up a great Quickbooks system, establish sound accounting procedures and is familiar with the records necessary to provide reliable backup for tax records. Jim Nahmens, CPA

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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