*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.*
8330 Allison Ave
La Mesa, California 91942
SMIB Management provided me the peace and confidence in handling my IRS issues. James, Allan, Ellie, and the whole team are true professionals, knowledgeable , and caring. If I had any questions regarding any financial issues they went above and beyond providing me the right answers to my questions. SMIB Management unequivocally proved to be a good quality company, providing great value, very professional and responsive! I wholeheartedly recommend their services! Sincerely, Jesse Rivera
I called SMIB Management in order to speak with someone in regards to tax debt and completely went in knowing nothing. After speaking with both Ellie and Alan, i was able to contact my bank provider with full confidence. Ellie, was such a great help at listening and understanding what my issue was so that she could get me connected to the right person. Alan was amazing at walking me through what steps I should take and helping me understand all options that were available to me! He was very patient and made
We were introduced to SMIB Management through a close friend. He told us of how SMIB helped him out with his past tax returns. They really came through for him. We decided to call SMIB to see if they could do the same for us. We had a very informative conversation and we were asked to send to them our previous tax returns and they would look them over to get a better picture of what they could do for us. They did get back to us rather quickly with only a few requests for more information. In the end we
Allan, James and the entire SMIB Management team have been excellent in every regard. Their communication was consistently timely and work product top notch. We use their services for tax management, wealth management, personal and business financial planning. They are outstanding on all fronts.
I can't say enough about how valuable SMIB has been to me and my family. Not only have they been extraordinary in preparing and filing my taxes, but they also impeccably represented me during a routine, but scary (are they ever not?) audit with the IRS. From the second I got the notice from the IRS, the SMIB team took over direct contact with the IRS?I had to do nothing?and prepared me for what to expect during an audit so I wasn't nervous or fearful. Alan then dutifully represented me on the 2+ hour ca
I went to SMIB approximately eight years ago , I was so stressed out and didn?t know what to do , I hadn?t done my taxes in over eight years and the IRS was garnishing my wages because I owed over 36,000 dollars in taxes . I made an appointment with SMIB and they told me to bring all my paperwork. I showed up with a huge box of IRS paperwork from the past eight years and put it on there desk and they said they would take care of everything. Ever since I went to SMIB the IRS has not garnished my wages and h
Since meeting with the SMIB Shariden Design Asphalt, Inc. has found the best Tax Consultants, assistance with Financial Planning, assistance with Business Evaluation and assistance with Legal advice all wrapped up in one professional office. James, Susan, Allan, Ellie, and Jodi are right there to help whenever I call. James and Allan were able to review 4 years of taxes, send in amendments to get money back for Shariden. Glad we found SMIB!
We had a variety of CPA's in the recent years an knew we were not on the same page with so we contacted SMIB Management to help us with past due taxes, non filed taxes & consultation of financial planning for retirement. They also suggested and helped us with the COVID 19 Tax Relief programs when we thought we would not qualify. James and his team are very professional and great to work with...highly recommend!
Allan, James and their staff have been amazing!! They are quick to respond, extremely knowledgeable, trustworthy/honest and affordable!!! With so many years of experience and research they know the tax laws extremely well and can be trusted to ensure the best possible outcome for almost any situation (at least so it seems)! They deliver on their promises and we highly recommend them to anyone seeking tax help! They are reducing our tax liability by a substantial amount and relieving us of unnecessary stres
I have been a client with James and SMIB for a number of years and would say that James has extraordinary grasp of tax law and its changing nature and has optimized my tax position and tax planning like no other. He and SMIB are astute financial planners and guides through the tax world and are dedicated to "getting it right" for the client. Underneath James's sometimes gruff exterior is a very bright and kind human being.
I would like to say that SMIB Mgmt. has given me a form/sense of relief & has assisted me in my time of uncertainty with my unique IRS debt situation. (I'm sure everyone's situation is unique to itself) & we are still working through it as I have had MANY changes arise through the course of action in my life recently ,but they have been by my side to guide me & assist me through the ups & downs the whole way through. I do have confidence that things will work out as the SMIB team knows things that the avera
I contacted SMIB to help me with an IRS matter. I was unable to resolve it on my own, but with their help, I was able to come to an agreement that works for me. I am very grateful to all of the people at SMIB , especially my EA Alan. I would highly recommend their services.
Very impressed of the efforts and professionalism this company brings to the table. They know exactly how to handle crypto and taxes. I truly believe my portfolio is better off with the team on my side. Worth every penny. Take your portfolio to the next level and let James and his team show you how to maximize your taxable situation. Sleep well at night knowing your assets are protected.
Allan, James and the team have been instrumental in getting our tax issues resolved. They have multiple tools videos and even classes to put us on the right track and to educate us. Allyn, always answers his phone even on the weekend. we have been working with them for the past three years and I think they represent What a business should be customer service customer service.
Allan helped me with applying for an EIDL loan. COVID-19 brought much stress and uncertainty, and I wasn't able to get it taken care of on my own. He and his assistant, Ellie, were kind and professional in keeping me updated, submitted the proper forms necessary, and also contacted the EDD to check on my status, which in turn gave me great peace of mind. that things were getting done. I highly recommend them if you need help in getting your disaster loans submitted and processed properly.
After years of dealing with tax problems, I was introduced to James and Ellie at SMIB Management. In a matter of days they resolved years of stress and headache that I?ve been dealing with. I couldn?t of asked for better help than these two. Keep up the good work guys. Thank you for everything.
Their team took my Corp and personal taxes and made sense out of them! Filed my extensions and assisted me with Pandemic related issues. They are very up to speed on the latest tax codes and all the chaos of Covid challenges. Thank you for your guidance!
I've been able to work with James, Susan, and Allan and always appreciate their responsiveness. They are experts in tax resolution and have processes in place to make sure any tax issues are resolved.
I found myself in a rut with tax problems, my brother recommended me to James and Ellie for assistance and they went above and beyond to help me with my situation. Excellent customer service and I am extremely satisfied with the end results. Thank you so much once again!
A solid team that addressed my needs to complete and file back taxes in a structured and transparent way. Very grateful to Allan, Ellie, Sara, James, et al. for their solid work!
One question I asked, and at the time I was concerned.The question was how are you different from some of the other tax help companies I see advertised on TV. The response ?? made my mind to accept their help. Confidence in the response I'm glad we chose this company.I was told (your not a number).They have been in our business like we needed, to get our affairs back in order. Thank you ??
SMIB is FANTASTIC. Very knowledgeable and reasonably priced. Their staff is like family, and the seriously and honestly care about each one of their clients.
I brought several challenging situations to SMIB and have been very happy with the expertise, level of attention, and responsiveness...as we work through my "stuff"! Thank you!
j SMIB is good of what they do, very responsive, they have a free consultation that ease your worries and gives you peace of mind. They can deliver a good outcome.
SMIB has taken a very strategic approach to our taxes, investments, and preparing for the future. I really appreciate their detail and professionalism.
They are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable when it comes to helping clients with their taxes ... I would recommend them
Yes had issues with taxes SMIB has been wonders thanks to SMIB im tax free ...
I really like this company, very efficient and professional. I highly recommend SMIB to everyone.
If you have tax issues they will professionally manage your business and are prompt to return calls.
Through tax professionals first class service.
Very knowledgeable and professional.
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.