Zukerman & Associates Ltd Claim this business

Kirstyn Vellaon Google

6 months ago

We used David Yates at Zukerman & Associates for our taxes. I specifically vetted him in advance a few months before the new year (2025) to ensure he was familiar with active-duty military taxes and rental properties, which he assured me he was. He quoted $600–$900. After uploading all of our sensitive documents to their portal in February, I sent an email to confirm that it was received. He did not respond. I had to call a couple of times a week later to confirm receipt. This pattern continued throughout tax season — emails went unanswered, calls were rarely returned, and I was repeatedly told he was “in a meeting.” The receptionist was dismissive and rude when I called to try and follow up, telling me that he is very busy during this season. I told her that I know it is busy, and I have been patient since February. It was now about 2 weeks before the tax deadline, and all I need to know is if I have to file an extension, or if I should be looking for a different CPA. All I asked for was communication - a quick email to say "Yes your forms were received," or "Hello, I will be completing your taxes next week" would have sufficed. The most concerning issue was incorrect tax advice. David insisted I file state taxes separately from my husband and pay Virginia taxes as a resident, despite my explaining that under the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) and California FTB guidance, I could file in CA and only CA-source income is taxable. And if I were to file as a VA resident, I would now also be liable to pay personal property tax on my vehicle - this would end up costing me WAY more (I know it's easy to assume CA costs more, but that's why it's important to know these details). I ultimately had to find and send him the MSRRA and the FTB Publication myself, after which he read, he agreed I was correct. He then had to amend the state return to fix his mistake, which was completed only after repeated calls and escalation on my part. Despite all of this, I later received a bill for $775, which was a full charge based on his initial quote. It felt unreasonable, given the errors, lack of communication, and the fact that I had to do spend a lot of time doing most of the research myself, and then spend more time to keep trying to get ahold of him. When I complained, his response was "While we certainly had issues with the states and the discussions and research involved to get them straight none of which I charged you for." I reminded him that the amended return and extra discussions were a result of HIS mistake and not mine, and that I was the one doing the research, so it is no consolation that we were not charged extra for the amendment. I tried to complain to a manager, but they were not interested in my feedback. The best he could do was $100 off. David was always nice when we were talking on the phone. Unfortunately, I just don't feel he is reliable or competent. Mistakes happen, but poor communication, incorrect advice after being specifically vetted, and the big charges despite significant issues made this a very disappointing experience. I hate to think about how many people have been charged thousands of dollars in taxes that they were never required to pay because of their incompetence. Taxes are stressful enough — this firm made it far more stressful than necessary. I hope this review saves someone else time, money, and frustration.

McKenzie Walshon Google

3 years ago

My husband and I have been using Gary Rothman as my CPA for a few years now and he is wonderful. When my husband and I got married, he took the time to meet with us and explain how we can file taxes together and how we can get more tax breaks. Vanessa Sharp also helps us with tax season when it comes to uploading all the correct documents needed. Gary and Vanessa are both extremely responsive and polite. My husband and I have an online portal through Zukerman & Associates where we can upload all of our files and view old files as well - it is so easy and user friendly. If I could give this place more than five stars I would. If you are looking for a new firm, this is the place to go!

Tasha Beverlyon Google

4 years ago

I was referred to Zukerman from a business associate, and let me tell you, I couldn't be more satisfied! Lauren and her team are very responsible and knowledgeable. There hasn't been one time were I've reached out to them, and they haven't provided me with the tax and IRS info that I needed. They are truly an asset for any wealth building plan......and getting your taxes done with them, forget about it, they do it in their sleep! Always accurate and on time. They are truly worth more than what they charge.

Harold Warrenon Google

5 years ago

I was referred to Zukerman & Associates many many years ago by a good friend. They have done my taxes, books and have always been responsive when I needed to call to ask a question even reminding me of when I need to do things. They even helped my late mother get squared away with the IRS and more recently helped us deal with her estate. I am blessed to have Ted, Heather and the team at Zukerman & Associates on my side.

teleseal1on Google

8 years ago

Gary is the best!! He has been my CPA and now friend for over 6 years. He does my business and my personal taxes and I couldn’t be more pleased with him as a CPA or as s human. An all out good guy. Thanks Gary!