Business Details
41 Years
experience
Your Trusted Accounting Partner in Costa Mesa, CA
Founded in 1985, Donna L. Stern CPA has established itself as a trusted accounting partner in Orange County, specializing in personalized financial solutions for individuals and small businesses. Our expertise in QuickBooks and FreshBooks, combined with decades of experience, enables us to deliver accurate, timely, and professional services tailored to each client's unique needs. We prioritize building lasting relationships, offering prompt responses, and fostering financial clarity to help clients achieve long-term success.Our comprehensive services span tax preparation, bookkeeping, estate and trust accounting, forensic accounting, and cash flow management. With a focus on compassion and expertise, we serve a diverse clientele, including service-oriented businesses, professionals, and families building generational wealth. Our commitment to excellence ensures compliance, transparency, and strategic financial planning for a secure future.
Services
Tax Services
Bookkeeping
Estate and Trust Accounting
Forensic Accounting
Cash Flow Advice
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized attention and prompt responses to all client inquiries.
- Our team has decades of experience in QuickBooks and FreshBooks expertise.
- We specialize in tailored solutions for estate, trust, and forensic accounting.
- We build lasting relationships with clients, many staying with us for life.
- We provide nationwide services while maintaining local expertise in Orange County.
What people say
Knowledgeable PRO
Great accountant
Highly recommended
Punctual and precise
Trusted financial partner
Services
Tax Services
Our tax services cater to individuals and businesses, focusing on compliance, liability reduction, and strategic planning. We handle complex returns, maximize deductions, and ensure adherence to federal and state regulations. Clients benefit from personalized strategies to optimize financial outcomes.
Bookkeeping
We offer comprehensive bookkeeping solutions, including expense tracking, bank reconciliation, and payroll management. Our systems ensure accurate records, streamlined cash flow, and readiness for audits. Small businesses gain time to focus on growth while maintaining financial clarity.
Estate and Trust Accounting
Specialized estate and trust accounting includes probate support, tax filings, and compliance reporting. We ensure accurate asset distribution, minimize disputes, and maintain transparency for beneficiaries and legal professionals managing high-value estates.
Forensic Accounting
Our forensic accounting services investigate financial discrepancies, fraud, and legal disputes. We provide court-ready reports and expert testimony, combining accounting expertise with investigative rigor to resolve complex cases efficiently.
Cash Flow Advice
We deliver tailored cash flow management strategies to improve liquidity and sustainability. By analyzing income and expenses, we help businesses and individuals make informed decisions to strengthen financial health and long-term stability.
People
Donna L. Stern
Founder & CPA
Donna L. Stern founded her firm in 1985 after graduating from USC, specializing in QuickBooks and fiduciary accounting. With over 40 years of experience, she serves individuals and small businesses in Orange County, prioritizing personalized service and financial clarity.
Questions
What is the difference between accounting and bookkeeping?
Bookkeeping records financial transactions, while accounting interprets and analyzes that data for strategic decision-making.
What bookkeeping services do you offer?
We provide accounts payable/receivable, payroll, financial reporting, and bank reconciliation services for small businesses.
How often should bookkeeping be done?
Monthly or quarterly bookkeeping is recommended, depending on business size and transaction volume.
Do you handle estate tax filings?
Yes, we specialize in estate and trust tax preparation, ensuring compliance and minimizing liabilities.
How do I start with your services?
Book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your needs and create a tailored financial plan.