Elsberg & Garrett, LLP

Background

Elsberg & Garrett, LLP is a full-service Certified Public Accounting (CPA) firm based in Walnut Creek, California. Established in 1991, the firm specializes in guiding closely held business entities through various stages of development and the U.S. business cycle. With over 20 years of organic growth, Elsberg & Garrett has built a reputation for quality and attentive service, fostering long-term partnerships with clients across diverse industries, including entrepreneurs, high-tech startups, medical practices, and research and development companies.

Key Strategic Focus

The firm's strategic focus centers on providing comprehensive accounting, tax, and business consulting services tailored to the unique needs of closely held businesses and individuals. By emphasizing personalized service and innovative solutions, Elsberg & Garrett aims to help clients navigate complex financial landscapes and achieve their financial objectives.

Financials and Funding

As a privately held firm, specific financial details and funding history of Elsberg & Garrett, LLP are not publicly disclosed. However, the firm's estimated annual revenue ranges between $5 million and $25 million, with a team size of 1-10 employees.

Services Offered

Elsberg & Garrett offers a full spectrum of services categorized into three main areas:

Accounting/Tax Services: Individual and business entity tax planning and preparation, IRS and tax authority representation in audits, financial statement compilation and review, and accounting systems implementation.

Individual Consulting: Estate and trust creation and implementation, retirement planning, and stock options decisions.

Business Consulting: Services include assistance with buying and selling businesses, investment and divestment issues, start-up structuring and capitalization, new business requirements (e.g., tax and business reporting), business entity selection, financial forecasts and projections, payroll and sales tax, and cash flow and budgeting analysis.

Leadership Team

Mark Elsberg, CPA: With over 40 years of experience, Mark specializes in individual and business accounting and financial advisory services. He earned his Bachelor of Science in accounting from Cal State Northridge and began his career at a national CPA firm before co-founding Elsberg & Garrett in 1991.

Bob Garrett, CPA: Bob brings more than 30 years of experience in accounting, tax, and financial advisory services. He holds a Bachelor of Science in business/accounting from the University of Phoenix and has been instrumental in the firm's growth and adaptation to client needs.

Stacey Brownell, CPA: Joining the firm over 20 years ago, Stacey specializes in individual and business entity tax preparation and financial statements. She graduated cum laude with a bachelor's degree in business administration, concentrating in accounting, from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo.

Seth Calhoun, CPA: Seth joined the firm in early 2019, bringing over 15 years of experience working with individuals and closely held businesses. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an Accounting Concentration from Sonoma State University and is pursuing a Master's in Taxation at Golden Gate University.

Arlene Yee: As the firm's office administrator since 2018, Arlene oversees client inquiries and back-office systems. She is currently studying human resources at California State University, East Bay.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The accounting and tax services industry in the San Francisco Bay Area is highly competitive, with numerous firms offering a range of services to individuals and businesses. The market is characterized by a demand for personalized service, expertise in complex tax matters, and the ability to provide strategic business consulting.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the region include:

Hawkes Hastings & Aaron Accountancy: Offers accounting and tax services with a focus on personalized client relationships.

SK Accountancy Corporation: Provides payroll services, tax services, and bookkeeping, emphasizing comprehensive financial solutions.

The Werner Group, CPA: Specializes in accounting and tax services, catering to a diverse client base.

These competitors, like Elsberg & Garrett, emphasize personalized service and have established client bases in the Walnut Creek area.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Elsberg & Garrett collaborates with clients' other professional advisors, including bankers, attorneys, and financial investors, to provide balanced and comprehensive guidance. This collaborative approach ensures that clients receive well-rounded advice tailored to their specific needs.

Operational Insights

The firm's commitment to high standards, open communication, and a team-oriented approach distinguishes it in a competitive market. By challenging the status quo and continually seeking innovative yet practical solutions, Elsberg & Garrett maintains a strong market position.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Elsberg & Garrett's focus on closely held business entities and personalized service positions the firm to capitalize on opportunities within the San Francisco Bay Area's dynamic business environment. By leveraging its experienced leadership team and comprehensive service offerings, the firm is well-equipped to support clients through evolving financial challenges and business cycles.