*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.*
7901 Stoneridge Dr Suite 520
Pleasanton, California 94588
I usually do my taxes on my own. This year I decided to have a tax preparer do my taxes as I received an inheritance which included several properties. I found several companies and a few responded back with quotes. I selected Tax Bears as they were conveniently located and also their cost was affordable. I am pleased to say I made the right choice. On my initial meeting with Pavandeep I found her very personable and professional. I came back for my tax appointment and was very happy with her work. She comp
I have been working with Pavan for three years on my taxes. She has been thoughtful, professional, timely and verg easy to work with. As someone who travels extensively for work, I feel safe and at ease knowing that she is capable of doing complicated filings. I appreciate how she makes the process simple and easy. I know exactly which forms I have to send and why. Also, she is available year round has been able to readily answer my questions about home purchasing, 401k and planning for next year. I am glad
I have had a great experience with Tax Bears Inc. Pavan has helped me with my Business Taxes for 2016, 2017, and 2018 and prepared me to save money for the 2019 tax year with an impressive Tax Plan. She has been an immaculate accountant, highly professional, quick, and very thorough. Definitely, recommend!
I run an enterprise in LA and filing taxes has been a challenge over last 7 years. We have grown over years and Tax preparation for such a large operation gets complicated. I have worked with various CPA's ?and none of them were able to provide the service and knowledge required for tax preparation for my S-corp. A close friend finally referred Pavandeep to us last year. At first I was reluctant to contact her since she was based in the bay area but given a good referral from a close friend I reached out to
I have been using Pavandeep's services over the past two years and she is outstanding. Excellent communication, transparency, and professionalism are important attributes for a tax accountant. When it comes to getting your taxes done, Pavandeep is strongly recommended.
I have worked with Pavan for over 7 years. I can say with confidence that she is one of the best tax accountants. She is exceptionally detailed and well organized. She can help prepare personal and business taxes in a timely manner. If you are looking for someone reliable, look no further than Pavandeep. She will do a great job for you!!.
Tax Bears is my go to. They take care of me year after year and I'm so thankful for them! Pavan is the best. I heartily recommend this wonderful business! Five stars, with no reservations.
Very knowledgeable tax consultant and provide emaculate service. I am in the armed forces and always had problems with filling my taxes. Tax Bears really accommodated my schedule even when I'm stationed in different time zone. Definitely better than HandR block, and highly recommend for military folks.
This is first year I let tax bears doing my tax return I highly recommend it. Pavan is so helpful and nice and the price was reasonable. Thank you so much tax bears.
My wife and I just had an appointment with Pavandeep and she helped navigate us through projections and laid out a clear path for filing our personal taxes this year. She is very thorough and efficient. I recommend consulting with Pavandeep.
Overall great experience. Made the process of handling a multiple incomes across different states along with partial tax payment by my employer a very simple process. Quick responses and a fair rate make this a service I highly recommend.
We have used tax bears for 3 years. We always leave confident that we have gotten the most out of our return. We love the follow-through and professional service.
Pavandeep did an excellent job advising us with our taxes. Very responsive, professional, and thorough tax consultant. Thank you Pavandeep!
Tax Bears were very professional and reasonably priced for their excellent tax preparation. I have been recommending them to my friends and family.
My mom and I went to her for our personal and business taxes and had a great experience! Pavan is extremely knowledgeable and very helpful.
Tax Bears were extremely helpful in preparing my personal taxes, and were available for any questions I had. Thank you!
Pavan is always patient, prompt, friendly and efficient. highly recommended.
Fast service and response. Minimal effort to reach over the phone. Easy communication. Reasonable prices.
Patient, knowledgeable, friendly, professional, great customer service, no surprises!
Very good in her Work
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.