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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Bakersfield, California
Bakersfield entrepreneurs can rely on 1-800Accountant for expert tax preparation and bookkeeping services tailored to California's unique business landscape, freeing up time to focus on growth and success.
Bakersfield Small Businesses Accounting Services
Business Tax Preparation: Ensure your Bakersfield business stays compliant and maximizes deductions with our expert tax preparation services. Our CPAs, averaging 17 years of experience, specialize in local industries like agriculture and oil, potentially saving you thousands each year. We stay current on California's complex tax laws, so you can focus on growing your business in the San Joaquin Valley.
Bookkeeping: Gain clarity on your financial position with accurate, timely bookkeeping. Our services go beyond data entry, providing insights that help you make informed decisions for your Bakersfield business. We'll organize your finances, reconcile accounts, and generate easy-to-understand reports that highlight opportunities for growth and areas needing attention.
Tax Advisory: Navigate California's tax landscape year-round with our dedicated advisory service. A Bakersfield-based tax advisor will help you plan strategically, considering local factors like the city's business improvement district fees or state incentives for renewable energy investments. We'll work to minimize your tax liability while ensuring full compliance with city, state, and federal regulations.
Payroll: Simplify your payroll process and stay compliant with Bakersfield and California labor laws. We'll handle wage calculations, tax withholdings, and timely submissions to relevant authorities. This frees up your time to focus on serving your customers or expanding your operations in Kern County.
Business Formation: Launch your Bakersfield venture with confidence using our complimentary incorporation services. We'll guide you through the process, from choosing the right business structure to filing the necessary paperwork with the California Secretary of State. You'll only pay the required state and local fees, while we handle the complexity of setting up your business for success in the Golden State.
Filing your business taxes online with 1-800Accountant is quick and easy:
- Provide required personal and business information.
- Review and select your online business tax preparation service and complete your purchase.
- Log in to your 1-800Accountant Portal and upload documents critical to preparing and filing your taxes.
Level | Rate |
|---|---|
State Tax Rate | 6.00% |
County Tax Rate | 0.25% |
Municipal Tax Rate | 1.00% |
Kern Co Local Tax Sl | 1.00% |
Combined Sales Tax Rate | 8.25% |
City-Specific Taxes |
|---|
| Bakersfield requires all businesses operating within the city limits to obtain a Business Tax Certificate. The certificate must be renewed annually, expiring on June 30th, with taxes due on July 1st and payments made by July 31st to avoid penalties. The fee varies based on business type and size. |
Licenses and Permits |
|---|
| All businesses operating in Bakersfield must obtain a Business Tax Certificate, which needs to be renewed annually. |
Home-based businesses in Bakersfield are required to secure a Home Occupation Permit in addition to the standard Business Tax Certificate. |
Zoning verification is required before establishing any business location in Bakersfield. Building permits are necessary for structural changes or remodeling of business premises. |
Grants and Funding in Bakersfield | Grants and Funding Information |
|---|---|
| Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Technical Assistance and Grant Program 2.0 | A new small business grant initiative (Phase 2) launching February 3, 2025. It offers eligible Bakersfield businesses grants of $2,500, $5,000, or $20,000 for key expenses such as payroll, rent/mortgage, utilities, licensing fees, expansion (non-construction), marketing, and other operating costs. |
What to Look for in Bakersfield, California Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Bakersfield small business, consider these key factors:
Certifications and State Compliance: When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Bakersfield small business, check that they hold the proper titles and certifications, like CPA credentials. They should be familiar with California's tax regulations and local requirements. This local expertise matters, given the diverse economic landscape that includes agriculture from Kern County's pistachio and almond production and the significant oil and energy sectors.
Experience and Specialization: Look for professionals who have worked with businesses in similar industries. A bookkeeper with experience in sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, or logistics can better manage industry-specific financial matters. For example, Bakersfield's expanding transportation and warehousing sectors demand someone who can handle unique challenges related to rapid job growth and industrial expansion.
Understanding of Local Economic Conditions: Choose someone who knows the Bakersfield market. Bakersfield is not only a hub for agriculture and oil refining, but it also has a vibrant cultural scene with the Bakersfield Sound and popular local landmarks like Buck Owens' Crystal Palace and the Fox Theater. This local insight can influence tax planning and financial management in ways that resonate with the community’s economic strengths and traditions.
Knowledge of State Tax Incentives: California provides various tax credits for small businesses, including incentives related to job creation and capital investment. A knowledgeable financial professional will be aware of these opportunities and offer guidance that could reduce your tax burden effectively. This is crucial in a market where industries like retail, finance, and healthcare all play significant roles and impact local economic performance.
Talk to a business tax expert today for all your tax needs in Bakersfield.
Additional California Accounting Resources:
California Business Tax Guide for Small Businesses
How to Start an S- Corporation in California
A Beginner’s Guide To California Payroll Taxes
*Based on a $12.2k average 2022 tax refund per client, which is 4x the cost of a full-service package. Source: first-party data.
*Includes average business tax preparation, form completion and submission, record keeping, and other misc admin time. Source.
*Historical first-party data.