Tax and Finance Pros in California
We list 23,722 tax and finance pros in 707 California cities and towns. Pick a city to compare them, or send one request and let local tax and finance pros come to you.
Cities in California
Smaller towns (177)
How to choose a tax or finance pro
Match the credential to the job
A CPA is licensed by a state board of accountancy, and an enrolled agent is licensed by the IRS to handle tax matters. Both can represent you before the IRS on any tax issue, while many other paid preparers cannot. For a business return, an audit or back taxes, look for one of these credentials.
Check the license before you hire
Every paid tax preparer must have a Preparer Tax Identification Number from the IRS and must sign your return with it. You can look up a CPA's license with your state board of accountancy, and the IRS keeps a public directory of preparers with credentials. For financial planners and advisors, check their registration and any disciplinary history with the SEC or your state securities regulator.
Ask how they charge up front
A good preparer quotes a flat fee or explains their hourly rate and what could add to it, such as extra forms or schedules. Get the quote in writing before work starts. Walk away from anyone who bases their fee on the size of your refund.
Watch for the classic red flags
Never sign a blank or incomplete return, and never let a preparer route your refund into their own bank account. Be wary of anyone who promises a bigger refund than others before seeing your documents. A preparer who refuses to sign the return or give you a copy is a reason to leave.
Know how an advisor is paid
Financial planners may be paid a flat fee, an hourly rate, a percentage of the assets they manage, or commissions on products they sell. Ask them to explain every way they are paid, in writing, and whether they act as a fiduciary on all of your accounts. Knowing this helps you spot possible conflicts of interest before you act on any recommendation.
What it typically costs
These are typical US price ranges, and what you pay in your area may be higher or lower.
The price climbs with each extra form, such as investment income or a rental property.
More schedules and receipts to work through mean more of the preparer's time.
Messy books, income in several states and separate business entity returns can push the price past this range.
Fees vary widely by planner and by how complex your finances are, and some charge hourly or an ongoing fee instead.
Common questions
What is the difference between a CPA and a tax preparer?
A CPA is a certified public accountant licensed by a state board, while a tax preparer may hold nothing beyond an IRS preparer number. CPAs must pass a national exam and meet education and experience rules, and they can represent you before the IRS on any matter. A preparer without a credential can be fine for a simple return, but can do less for you if the IRS has questions later.
What is an enrolled agent?
An enrolled agent is a tax professional licensed by the IRS itself to prepare returns and represent taxpayers. They earn the credential by passing an IRS exam or through qualifying IRS work experience, and they must keep up with continuing education. Because they focus on taxes, they are a good fit for audits, back taxes and IRS letters.
Do I need an accountant or can I use tax software?
Tax software is usually enough for a simple return, such as a single W-2 job with the standard deduction. A professional is worth considering if you are self-employed, own a rental, sold a business or major investments, moved between states, or got a letter from the IRS. On a complicated return, a preparer's fee can be small next to the cost of a mistake.
What documents should I bring to my tax appointment?
Bring a photo ID, Social Security numbers for everyone on the return, and every income form you received, such as W-2s and 1099s. Add last year's return, records of deductible expenses like mortgage interest or childcare, and your bank details if you want direct deposit. A good preparer will send you a checklist ahead of time.
How do I check out a financial advisor in your area?
Start by looking up their registration and any disciplinary history through the SEC's public adviser database, FINRA BrokerCheck, or your state securities regulator. If they say they hold a planning credential, confirm it with the organization that issues it. Then ask how they are paid and whether they act as a fiduciary, and get the answers in writing.
When should I start looking for a tax preparer?
Start in January, or even the fall before, if you can. Good preparers fill their calendars as the April deadline gets closer, and some stop taking new clients well before it. If you are running late, ask about filing an extension, which gives you more time to file but not more time to pay.