Find an accountant or CPA in California

California has some of the most complicated state taxes in the country, so a good local accountant earns their fee. Here is how to check a California CPA, the state taxes that catch people out, and where to get free help with a simple return.

Get matched with a California accountant

Check the license

Only people licensed by the California Board of Accountancy can call themselves a CPA in California. The Board's license lookup shows whether a license is active and any public enforcement action. CPAverify.org, run by the national association of state boards, lets you check CPAs in most states from one search.

You do not need a CPA for every job. Enrolled agents (licensed by the IRS) can prepare returns and represent you before the IRS, and bookkeepers can keep your records - but for audits, financial statements and complex planning, a CPA is the usual choice.

California taxes to ask about

State income tax: California has its own income tax, collected by the Franchise Tax Board, with a separate state return.
The $800 minimum franchise tax: most LLCs and corporations doing business in California owe at least $800 a year, even with no profit. It surprises many new business owners.
Sales and use tax: the statewide base rate is 7.25%, with local district taxes on top, so the rate depends on where the sale happens.
Moving in or out: if you moved to or from California during the year, you may need a part-year resident return - a common reason to get professional help.

What it costs and how to choose

Fees vary with complexity and location - a simple individual return costs far less than a business return with payroll and sales tax. Ask for a fixed quote, what is included, and who will actually do the work. See our guide to how much an accountant costs for typical ranges.

Free tax help

If your income is low to moderate and your return is simple, the IRS's VITA program offers free return preparation by IRS-certified volunteers at locations across California.

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Common questions

How do I check if an accountant is a licensed CPA in California?

Use the California Board of Accountancy license lookup, or CPAverify.org. Both show whether the CPA license is active. Anyone not licensed cannot call themselves a CPA in California.

Do I have to pay the $800 California franchise tax if my LLC made no money?

In most cases, yes. Most LLCs and corporations doing business in California owe the $800 minimum franchise tax each year regardless of profit. An accountant can confirm whether any exception applies to you.

What is the sales tax rate in California?

The statewide base rate is 7.25%. Local district taxes are added on top, so the total rate depends on the city and county where the sale takes place.

Is an enrolled agent as good as a CPA for taxes?

For tax returns and dealing with the IRS, enrolled agents are licensed tax specialists and can represent you before the IRS. CPAs can do that too and can also audit and sign financial statements.

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