Business Details
Your Trusted Accounting Partner in Santa Barbara
Ballew & Fuhrman, CPAs is a boutique accounting firm dedicated to providing comprehensive financial solutions tailored to the unique needs of individuals and businesses. Our expertise spans income tax preparation, strategic tax planning, audit representation, and real estate transaction advisory, all grounded in a commitment to personalized service. With a philosophy of sustainable business practices, we prioritize paperless operations and local sourcing to support community growth while minimizing environmental impact. Our team combines deep technical knowledge with a client-centric approach, treating every relationship as a partnership to deliver actionable insights that enhance financial decision-making.Michael Fuhrmans background as an IRS auditor informs our audit defense strategies, while Jeremy Ballews focus on tax planning and senior care consulting ensures holistic financial guidance. We leverage technology to streamline processes, offering mobile services for added convenience. Our dedication to transparency, fairness, and continuous education enables clients to navigate complex tax codes with confidence. By fostering long-term relationships, we aim to be a trusted advisor in achieving both immediate and future financial goals.
Services
Tax Preparation
Audit Representation
Bookkeeping Services
Real Estate Tax Planning
IRS Defense
1031 Exchanges
Financial Reporting
Tax Compliance
Estate Taxation
Tax Planning
Highlights and features
- We combine IRS audit expertise with proactive tax planning strategies.
- Our paperless operations reduce environmental impact without sacrificing efficiency.
- Personalized financial guidance tailored to individual and business needs.
- Real estate transaction specialists with integrated tax implications analysis.
- Local community investment through sustainable sourcing and partnerships.
Associations and certifications
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
What people say
Exceeded expectations
Professional and thorough
Expedited return
Great experience
Increased refund $700
Services
Tax Preparation
Comprehensive federal and state tax preparation services for individuals and businesses, including entity selection and compliance. Our team ensures accurate filings while identifying opportunities to minimize liabilities. Specialized expertise in real estate transactions and estate taxation provides complete financial clarity.
Audit Representation
Expert audit support led by former IRS agent Michael Fuhrman. We handle all communication with tax authorities, limit audit scope, and develop strategic responses. Our insider knowledge of audit processes ensures fair outcomes while protecting client interests throughout the examination.
Bookkeeping Services
Detailed bookkeeping solutions including bank reconciliations, general ledger maintenance, and customized financial reporting. Our accurate record-keeping enables informed business decisions while ensuring compliance with tax obligations. Monthly reporting packages support ongoing financial management needs.
Real Estate Financial Services
Integrated tax and real estate advisory services for property transactions. We specialize in 1031 exchanges, investment analysis, and tax consequence planning. Our dual expertise in accounting and real estate maximizes financial benefits while minimizing tax exposure during property acquisitions and sales.
Tax Planning
Year-round strategic tax planning to optimize financial positions. We analyze business operations and personal finances to identify savings opportunities. Proactive planning for corporations, partnerships, and high-net-worth individuals ensures compliance while achieving long-term financial objectives.
People
Jeremy Ballew
Tax Principal
CPA with 15+ years experience in tax consulting and planning. Specializes in senior care financial strategies and political campaign accounting. Graduated UCSB with accounting emphasis. Provides personalized financial guidance while prioritizing sustainability.
Michael Fuhrman
Tax Principal
Former IRS auditor with 5+ years federal tax enforcement experience. Holds CPA and MBA. Real estate agent specializing in 1031 exchanges. Combines audit expertise with transactional knowledge to deliver comprehensive tax solutions for real property investments.
Finnegan Fuhrman
Chief Culture Officer
Office culture steward maintaining Santa Barbara's laid-back professionalism. Manages workflow and client file security while ensuring positive workplace environment. Represents the firm's commitment to community values and work-life balance.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer?
We provide tax preparation, audit representation, bookkeeping, real estate tax planning, and strategic financial consulting for individuals and businesses.
How does your audit representation work?
Former IRS agent Michael Fuhrman handles all communication, limits audit scope, and develops strategic responses to ensure fair outcomes while protecting your interests.
Do you support local businesses?
Yes, we prioritize local sourcing for office supplies and services to stimulate the Santa Barbara economy and reduce environmental impact.
Are you available outside regular hours?
Our office hours are Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM. We offer mobile services for after-hours consultations at client locations.
How do you handle real estate tax implications?
We specialize in 1031 exchanges and property transaction tax planning, combining accounting expertise with active real estate licensing experience.
