Back to Directory
Unchained Financial Services

Unchained Financial Services

Reviews Summary

The reviews overwhelmingly praise the service, with most highlighting exceptional professionalism, responsiveness, and expertise, particularly in handling complex tax situations. Many appreciate the thorough explanations, proactive assistance, and willingness to go above and beyond, even during challenging financial circumstances. While one negative review cites unfulfilled promises and poor responsiveness, the vast majority express high satisfaction, often noting long-term trust and repeat business. The team is commended for making stressful processes like taxes or loans seamless, saving clients time and money. Several reviewers emphasize they wouldn’t consider switching providers.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Sales Tax Compliance
Budgeting
Forecasting
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Startups
Real Estate
Manufacturing
QuickBooks
Remote Services

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

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
Sales Tax Compliance
Budgeting
Forecasting
Outsourced Accounting
Small Businesses
Startups
Real Estate
Manufacturing
QuickBooks
Remote Services

Contact Information

Address

8560 W Sunset Blvd Suite 400

West Hollywood, California 90069

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 8AM-6PM
Tuesday 8AM-6PM
Wednesday 8AM-6PM
Thursday 8AM-6PM
Friday 8AM-6PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

Melissa Guy has been doing my taxes for the last 3 years and I feel she is very diligent and attentive when it comes to preparing my taxes. She does absolutely outstanding work and has went above and beyond to get me the right return in my favor. I would go no where else and she comes highly recommended. I live in Casper, Wyoming and I still choose "Unchained Financial Services" way over in California to do my taxes and I wouldn't have it any other way!

Melissa was great to work with and very responsive to all my questions and concerns. She was very professional and very knowledgeable in the tax field. In addition to doing my 2020 taxes, she took it upon herself to review my 2019 taxes and file an amendment to get me more of a refund and did not charge me any extra. The price was a very good value. I would highly recommend Melissa and Unchained Financial Services.

Unchained financial did an amazing job helping me with my taxes. I?m a first time home buyer and had a complex tax burden I was not expecting. Unchained managed to save me a significant amount of money with little effort on my part. I will use them from now on. I highly recommend them to everyone and can say confidently they will make your life better and safe you stress, time and money. Thank you!

I love Unchained financial services. This woman owned company has been the solution to my monthly bookkeeping and annual tax prep conundrum. Apart from that, I recently had the most challenging time procuring a multitude of documents as I applied for a loan to purchase a new home. Melissa was available 24/7, always pulling (providing) whatever historic docs were asked of me in a timely manner, always professional, always positive. Nothing was too much to ask. In the end, we secured my loan, I bought the ho

I had a bad experience with Unchained Financial Services. Melissa's level of responsiveness and quality of work was well below expectations. She made promises to me that she did not keep. I truly hope that she will regain her ability to live up the great reviews that have been posted about her work in previous years. Unfortunately, I do not feel comfortable using her services in the future.

Melissa has been so great to work with... she has done my familys taxes for 4 years now and has done everything possible to help us during the crazy tax season! Since the 4 years my tax status has changed from receiving a refund to having to pay in. Melissa has walked me step by step and explained how everything works! I couldn't be more pleased with how professional she is and how greatful I am to have her by my side.

This is my first year preparing business taxes, Melissa Guy was awesome. I had been doing my own personal taxes for years, however this year, because of my small business, I wanted to make sure I did everything correctly. Melissa was very responsive and great to work with, she answered all my questions. I will being going back to her next year. Thanks so much!

I am so happy that my friend recommended Unchained Financial Services. I've been doing my own taxes for a few years but needed help because it seemed a little more complicated this time around. Abbilene was a great help and answered all my initial questions thoroughly. She walked me through the entire process and gave me constant updates. I look forward to working with her again in the future!

My husband and I have been working with Melissa for 10+ years. We are extremely satisfied with her. Deployments and child support issues can be a handful but she makes sure that we are well taken care.

Abbilene and her team at UFS are the absolute BEST. I've worked with many accountants throughout the years and they are the most professional and reliable. They really go above and beyond to explain things in detail so I can understand. Her and her team are super dependable and always available for all my 20 questions. We've worked with the team at UFS for the last few years and this last year they really helped us. Abbilene's knowledge and insight helped us stay afloat even though we were financially impa

Sound advice and assistance help significantly reduce my responsibility for the year. Absolutely would recommend them.

Was a wonderful & easy experience around my schedule, and communication was fast!

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.