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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Santa Clarita, California
Small businesses in Santa Clarita deserve expert financial support that saves time and money—1-800Accountant delivers professional bookkeeping and tax services designed to help you thrive in California's competitive market.
Our Accounting Services for Santa Clarita 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 Santa Clarita 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 Santa Clarita, 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 Santa Clarita 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 | 3.75% |
| Municipal Tax Rate | 0.00% |
| Combined Sales Tax Rate | 9.75% |
| City-Specific Taxes |
|---|
| California imposes a state-mandated minimum franchise tax of $800 per year on most corporations and LLCs. Corporations must pay by the 15th day of the 4th month of the taxable year (April 15 for calendar-year filers). LLCs must pay by the 15th day of the 4th month after formation and annually on that same date thereafter. |
| Licenses and Permits |
|---|
| All businesses in Santa Clarita must complete an annual city registration. |
| A Los Angeles County business license is required for certain businesses, including restaurants, fitness gyms, and beauty salons. |
| Zoning approval or a use permit may be necessary depending on your business's location and how it operates. |
| Los Angeles County also administers health and food permits for businesses like restaurants and bakeries. |
| Businesses may also need to comply with Los Angeles County hazardous waste and pollution regulations. |
| Grants and Funding in Santa Clarita | Grants and Funding Information |
|---|---|
| Community Services and Arts Grants | The City of Santa Clarita offers these grants to assist community-based organizations with providing services and art activities for Santa Clarita residents. Funding categories include Community Services Grants, Community Arts Grants, Santa Clarita Presents Grants, and Arts Organization Capacity Grants. Eligible projects include one-time programs, program enhancements, pilot programs, and capital expenditures. |
| Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) | This program provides funding for non-profit organizations serving low and moderate-income residents in Santa Clarita. The 2025-2026 funding cycle covers July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026. All proposals must address a Con Plan Priority and meet federal regulations. For questions, contact Administrative Analyst Julia Rodriguez at ejrodriguez@santaclarita.gov or (661) 286-4174. |
| Small Business Mobility Fund | Offered by the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity, this fund is available to small businesses in the county including those in Santa Clarita. Applications opened March 7, 2025 and are accepted on a rolling basis, subject to funding availability. |
| California Dream Fund Grant | This state-level program provides microgrants of up to $10,000 to small businesses that were established after July 1, 2019. Santa Clarita businesses may qualify for this California Office of the Small Business Advocate program. |
What to Look for in Santa Clarita, California Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Santa Clarita small business, you should consider the following factors:
Certifications and California Compliance: Verify the accountant holds proper credentials, such as CPA licensure or enrolled agent status. They should demonstrate thorough knowledge of California's complex tax structure, including the state's franchise tax requirements and recent regulatory changes affecting Santa Clarita businesses. A professional who stays current with California's evolving tax landscape will help your business remain compliant.
Entertainment and Film Industry Expertise: Santa Clarita's position as a film production hub creates unique accounting needs. Look for professionals experienced with production accounting, film tax credits, and the financial complexities of entertainment businesses. Accountants familiar with California's Film & Television Tax Credit Program can help production companies maximize available incentives while navigating industry-specific reporting requirements.
Experience with Local Growth Industries: Find an accountant who understands Santa Clarita's diverse economic landscape, including tourism, outdoor recreation, and the specific financial considerations of businesses supporting Six Flags attractions. A professional with experience serving clients in your sector will better anticipate seasonal cash flow fluctuations, industry benchmarks, and growth opportunities specific to Santa Clarita's economy.
Knowledge of Regional Tax Incentives: Santa Clarita and Los Angeles County offer various business incentives, including the Santa Clarita Enterprise Zone benefits and specific programs for film production companies. An accountant familiar with these local advantages can identify tax planning opportunities, potential credits for business expansion, and strategies to reduce your tax burden while supporting your company's growth within this dynamic Southern California market.
Talk to a business tax expert today for all your tax needs in Santa Clarita.
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.