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Wayne Long & Co

Wayne Long & Co

Reviews Summary

The majority of reviews praise the firm for its long-standing expertise, professional service, and strong reputation, with many clients recommending it for accounting and business consulting. Positive feedback highlights knowledgeable staff, competitive billing, and decades of reliable service. However, a few negative reviews cite poor customer service, delays, high costs, and unprofessional behavior. Overall, most clients rate the firm highly, emphasizing trust and quality, while a small minority report significant dissatisfaction.

About This Listing

Bookkeeping
Accounting
Audit
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Forensic Accounting
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
QuickBooks
GAAP Compliance
Internal Controls
Local Tax Credits
Years of Practice
CPA License
In-person Support

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
Audit
Business Consulting
Financial Statements
Payroll
CFO Services
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Financial Advisory
Estate and Trust Tax
Forensic Accounting
Small Businesses
Mid-size Businesses
High-net-worth Individuals
Individual Taxpayers
Non-profits
QuickBooks
GAAP Compliance
Internal Controls
Local Tax Credits
Years of Practice
CPA License
In-person Support

Contact Information

Address

1502 Mill Rock Way STE 200

Bakersfield, California 93311

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Customer Reviews

Wayne Long has been doing my accounting for the past 30 some years. We have been extremely satisfied with his work and his billing is very competitive. Even after all these years of his firm growing I have had excellent service and attention to my account. I would highly recommend his company as they continue with quality service. Mike, Texas

This is a well known accounting firm with a strong reputation for providing high quality reporting documents and consultation. As a local commercial banker, I have referred numerous customers to Wayne Long over the past 30 plus years and have received excellent reviews of his knowledge of the various kinds of professional and business practices. With his reputation, Wayne has grown this CPA company into one of the largest accounting firms in Bakersfield. The bottom line is that he takes excellent care

Wayne Long & his staff are AMAZING! They have taken care of our Company's financials for years. They have also helped us immensely with critical financial decisions when planning the growth of our business. I would highly recommend Wayne Long & Co. to any business that is interested in expert financial advice & planning.

Wayne has been our Accoutant over 35 years & we would highly recommend his firm. Wayne & his staff are very knowledgeable of the tax laws & have always been very pleasant to work with year after year. Wayne Long & Co is a A+ Accounting Firm

Banks Pest Control has been a client of Wayne Long & Co. for over 25 years. In that time Wayne and his staff have handled our account in a highly professional way. The firms integrity and honesty have made them a true partner in our business. Thank you for all your help over the years. Sharyn Newman

I have known Wayne for over 30 years. His firm is the is the standard of the industry and he is by far the best CPA firm in Bakersfield. There is a reason the he has consistently outperformed the competition inside and outside of Bakersfield. If you are looking for a full service CPA firm with the highest level of technical skill, Creativity, Integrity, and Service this is the firm for you. There is a reason that his average employee has been with him for over 30 years. Drew Delisser CPA, Los Angeles

I work with this office both personally and professionally and have always found them to be a great source of knowledge in every aspect of our business. Wayne not only prepares taxes, but is a great business consultant. His staff is one of the most competent staff I've ever seen and is always up to date on the latest tax laws.

Worst service I have experienced. I asked Long & Co for accounting services at their current rate and a year-long agreement for services rendered. I was turned down by the owner, Wayne long because he said he did not know me and did not want to take a risk on me. I continued to speak with Mr. long and stated I was willing to postpone services for 45 days if they were too busy at this time and he responded he did not want to take any risk on me. Mr. Long was not saying he is too busy, he was saying he did

Our company was with them for over a year, everything took forever to get results - from the tax returns to their billing. We got a new CPA firm and they have already found errors and Wayne Long was childish and rude to them when they asked for their work-papers and schedules. Very immature and unprofessional. His bills are way too high as well. Stay away.

my company has used wayne long for over 20 years, the best of the best in my opinion

Rip off!!! Go some where else. They took over a year to do our taxes because they had incompetent employees.And we were billed for it.what a joke!

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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