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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Huntington Beach, California
Small business owners in Huntington Beach trust 1-800Accountant to manage their bookkeeping and tax needs, giving them more time to focus on what matters most—growing their business.
Our Accounting Services for Huntington Beach Small Businesses
Business Tax Preparation: Have your taxes prepared and filed by a CPA with expertise in your industry so you're always confident in your business tax situation. Our CPAs, with more than 17 years of experience on average, can save you thousands annually when you delegate complex Huntington Beach tax preparation to them!
Bookkeeping: Solidify your financial base and manage cash flow with precise, error-free bookkeeping done for you that saves time and provides crucial insights that empower you to make important data-backed business decisions. This meticulous process delivers essential tools for interpreting data with easy-to-understand reporting, enabling your accountant to develop vital financial modeling.
Tax Advisory: Business tax considerations don't end in April. Through our affordable tax advisory service, you can receive the guidance you need when you need it year-round from a dedicated small business tax advisor. Strategic planning helps minimize your business tax liability in California throughout the year while ensuring compliance.
Payroll: Save hours each pay period with comprehensive payroll services handled for you, with regular tax submissions to the city of Huntington Beach, ensuring accuracy and freeing you to focus on other vital aspects of your business.
Business Formation: Enjoy the advantages of officially establishing your business in California with our complimentary incorporation services. Simply cover any Huntington Beach fees, and we will manage the rest. This puts you on a path to hiring employees and creating a business bank account as you experience the benefits of an optimized business structure and maximum tax savings.
Discussing your business taxes with 1-800Accountant is quick and easy:
- Set up a time for us to give you a call.
- Tell us what’s going on with your business.
- Get matched with an accountant who knows your industry & local regulations.
| Level | Rate |
|---|---|
| State Tax Rate | 6.00% |
| County Tax Rate | 1.75% |
| Municipal Tax Rate | None |
| Combined Sales Tax Rate | 7.75% |
| City-Specific Taxes |
|---|
| Every business in Huntington Beach must pay an annual non-regulatory Business License Tax based on gross receipts, with rates starting at $25 and rising up to over $5,000. The fee supports local Police, Fire, and other city services, and is due when you apply and each year on your certificate anniversary. |
| Licenses and Permits |
|---|
| All businesses operating in Huntington Beach must obtain a City Business License, which is an annual flat tax required under the municipal code. |
| Home-based businesses and contractors have specific application processes available online through the HB ACA portal. |
| Short-term rental operators need a special permit from the Community Development Department before applying for a standard business license. |
| Some specialized businesses may require additional permits or approvals from the city council as outlined in the Huntington Beach Municipal Code. |
| Grants and Funding in Huntington Beach | Grants and Funding Information |
|---|---|
| Huntington Beach Business Assistance Program | The City of Huntington Beach provides various business support initiatives including tax incentives for qualifying businesses, local grant programs when available, and low-interest financing options for business expansion or operational improvements. Businesses should consult the official portal for the latest eligibility criteria and application details. |
| Huntington Beach COVID-19 Small Business Micro-Grant Program | This program previously awarded $5,000 grants by lottery to businesses affected by the pandemic, funded through local allocations of federal CARES Act money. While this specific program was active during COVID-19, similar grant programs may be launched depending on city budget allocations or special circumstances. |
| California Small Business Grants | Various state-level small business grant programs are regularly updated and available to Huntington Beach businesses. These programs support for-profit and nonprofit businesses, sole proprietors, and other organizations operating in California. Check this resource for current and upcoming opportunities relevant to Huntington Beach businesses. |
| Small Business Lending Programs | In addition to grants, Huntington Beach businesses can access various small business lending programs available throughout California. These programs offer favorable terms to support business growth, development, and sustainability for local entrepreneurs and established companies. |
What to Look for in Huntington Beach, California Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Huntington Beach small business, you should consider the following factors:
Certifications and State Compliance: Verify your financial professional holds appropriate credentials like CPA licensure and maintains good standing with California regulatory bodies. They should demonstrate thorough knowledge of California's complex tax structure, including the state's 8.75% sales tax rate in Huntington Beach and specific reporting requirements for coastal businesses.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Experience: Select an accountant familiar with Huntington Beach's tourism-driven economy. Look for professionals who understand seasonal cash flow patterns, employee tip reporting, and tax implications for businesses catering to the city's millions of annual visitors. An accountant experienced with surf shops, beachside restaurants, or vacation rentals will provide more targeted guidance than a generalist.
Knowledge of Local Business Incentives: Choose a financial professional who can navigate Huntington Beach's business development programs and Orange County economic incentives. The right accountant will help you access local enterprise zones, tourism improvement districts, and California's small business tax provisions specifically beneficial to coastal community enterprises.
Understanding of Seasonal Business Cycles: Prioritize accountants who comprehend Huntington Beach's unique business rhythms tied to peak tourist seasons, major events like the US Open of Surfing, and weather patterns affecting beachfront operations. This knowledge helps optimize tax planning, expense management, and cash flow strategies aligned with your business's seasonal fluctuations.
Talk to a business tax expert today for all your tax needs in Huntington Beach.
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.