After 17 years of working for a local CPA firm in San Francisco, in 2001 Laurel decided to join the ranks of the self-employed. Laurel uses her experience working with individuals and business owners, to help them make informed financial decisions.

As a small business owner herself, Laurel understands the many issues that face her clients, including:

• Whether to incorporate or form a Limited Liability Company;
• Working as an independent contractor or hiring other contractors
• Retirement plans for the self-employed;
• Setting up the books for the business.

As a CPA, she can provide representation in an IRS or Franchise Tax Board audit, and assist in preparing financial statements for use in obtaining bank loans. Laurel has worked with her clients on numerous real estate transactions, including tax-deferred exchanges involving multiple properties. She has helped by providing analytical spreadsheets using various “what if” scenarios when a client is contemplating a significant financial transaction.

Fees for Laurel’s services vary depending upon the nature of the work. After an initial meeting that is offered at no charge, Laurel will give a quote on tax preparation and other services. So that her clients will not feel that they’re “on the clock” every time they call, this fee includes telephone calls made during the year with quick questions. If a special project arises, the fee will be quoted based upon her hourly rates.

Laurel received her BA in Business Economics at the University of California at Santa Barbara. She became a CPA in 1987, and obtained a Masters of Science in Taxation from Golden Gate University in 1991. While working for a large local CPA firm in San Francisco, she became a principal, heading up the tax department. Her focus is mainly with individuals and small to medium sized closely held businesses.