2

Remote Cpa Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manager, CPA - Tax

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site +1

$75K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

In office opportunities in Solvang and Santa Barbara, California Remote eligible within US states ... Master's degree a plus * CPA license required * 5 to 10 years of relevant experience within a ...

Tax Specialist (CPA)

Palo Alto, CA · On-site +1

$95K - $130K/yr

  • PTO

As we scale, we need a senior CPA to own the tax function for our fund clients, from partnership ... Remote-first work environment with thoughtful, high-caliber teammates * A working schedule for ...

Tax Specialist (CPA)

Palo Alto, CA · On-site +1

$95K - $130K/yr

  • PTO

As we scale, we need a senior CPA to own the tax function for our fund clients, from partnership ... Remote-first work environment with thoughtful, high-caliber teammates * A working schedule for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Remote Cpa information

See California salary details

$17

$21

$23

How much do remote cpa jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote cpa in California is $21.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a remote CPA do?

The job responsibilities of a certified public accountant (CPA) involve performing accounting duties. As a remote CPA, you work from home or another remote location. In addition to creating and maintaining financial records, you may advise a client about steps to take to simplify their taxes or meet reporting requirements. You can work with clients on a freelance or contract basis or work with a single employer as a virtual employee. CPAs can specialize in business or corporate finances, investing, tax accounting, or accounting for individuals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote CPA?

To thrive as a Remote CPA, you need a certified public accountant (CPA) license, strong knowledge of accounting principles, and experience in financial analysis and tax preparation. Proficiency with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, and cloud-based collaboration tools is typically required. Excellent communication, self-motivation, and time management skills help remote CPAs effectively serve clients and meet deadlines. These skills ensure accuracy, compliance, and strong client relationships in a remote work environment.

How much do remote CPAs make?

Remote CPAs typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of clients or projects. Senior CPAs or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially when working independently or for large firms. Compensation may also vary based on geographic location, workload, and whether they are employed or self-employed.

What are some common challenges faced by remote CPAs, and how can they overcome them?

Remote CPAs often encounter challenges related to communication, managing client expectations, and maintaining data security. Since they collaborate virtually with clients and team members, establishing clear communication channels and regular check-ins is essential. Additionally, remote CPAs must stay updated on cybersecurity best practices to protect sensitive financial information. Utilizing secure cloud-based accounting tools and keeping abreast of evolving tax regulations can help remote CPAs deliver quality service while working independently.

What is the difference between Remote CPA vs Remote Bookkeeper?

AspectRemote CPARemote Bookkeeper
Required CredentialsCPA license, accounting degreeNo formal certification required
Work EnvironmentClient consulting, tax planning, auditsData entry, transaction recording
Employer & Industry UsageAccounting firms, corporations, freelancingSmall businesses, accounting services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding professional scope and certificationEntry-level bookkeeping tasks

Remote CPAs typically hold a CPA license and focus on complex accounting, tax, and audit services. Remote Bookkeepers handle day-to-day transaction recording without requiring formal certifications. While both roles work remotely in the accounting industry, CPAs often serve as consultants or auditors, whereas Bookkeepers support basic financial record-keeping.

What is a remote CPA?

A remote CPA is a Certified Public Accountant who provides accounting, tax, and financial services to clients from a location outside of a traditional office—often from home or another remote setting. Remote CPAs use digital tools to manage bookkeeping, prepare tax returns, conduct audits, and offer financial advice without the need for in-person meetings. This setup offers flexibility to both the CPA and their clients, making accounting services accessible regardless of geographical location.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cpa jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cpa jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Cpa jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Cpa jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Remote Cpa jobs?

Cities in California with the most Remote Cpa job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Cpa job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 9% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 24% In-person, and 76% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,138 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Certified Public Accountant

Brown & Sterling

San Diego, CA • On-site, Remote

$125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Calling all CPAs/tax professionals!

At Brown & Sterling, we have experienced tremendous growth in our niche practice area and are expanding our team! Our Tax Strategy law firm is looking for a detail-oriented, thorough, meticulous, and conscientious CPA to join our growing team.  


Benefits For Our Team:

  • Job Type: Full-time
  • Pay: Up to $125,000 annually, plus discretionary bonuses
  • Health (with 100% employer contribution toward employee’s premium).
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life
  • Short and Long Term Disability
  • 401(k) (3% Safe Harbor) immediate, fully vested, and nonforfeitable interest in your Elective Deferral Account
  • Paid Time Off
  • Remote/Hybrid work structure
Compensation:

$125,000 yearly potential


Responsibilities:

About the Role:

Tax Preparation & Review

  • Prepare and review federal, state, and local tax returns for individuals, partnerships, corporations, and trusts using CCH Axcess software
  • Ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with current tax regulations
  • Analyze financial records to identify tax-saving opportunities and potential risks
  • Stay current on changes in tax laws and communicate impacts to clients and internal teams

Client Relationship Management

  • Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned clients
  • Build and maintain strong, long-term client relationships
  • Respond to client inquiries and provide clear, actionable guidance

Compliance & Research

  • Conduct tax research on complex issues and document findings
  • Ensure compliance with Internal Revenue Service regulations and applicable state laws
  • Assist with notices and correspondence with taxing authorities

Process Improvement & Efficiency

  • Utilize tax software and technology tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy
  • Contribute to the development of best practices and standardized procedures

Team Collaboration

  • Work closely with tax strategists, other accountants, controllers, and operations staff
  • Support firm initiatives and contribute to a collaborative team environment 

Qualifications:

About You:

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field
  • Active CPA license required
  • 3–7+ years of experience in tax preparation within a public accounting firm
  • Experience with a variety of entity types and industries preferred

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong knowledge of federal and state tax laws and regulations
  • Knowledge of FBAR and International tax laws desired
  • High attention to detail and accuracy
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Strong client service and communication abilities
  • Ability to manage multiple deadlines, especially during peak tax season
  • Proficiency in CCH Axcess tax preparation software preferred and Microsoft Excel 

About Company

Brown & Sterling is a business-driven tax strategy law firm with offices in Fall City, WA, and Mission Valley, San Diego, CA. We are an industry leader in assisting clients with tax strategies to significantly reduce their tax liabilities. We have the privilege of serving clients with a high net worth so that they can protect their dreams and wishes for financial freedom.

What Sets Us Apart:

We’re not an everyday, stuffy law firm that expects our team to sacrifice their work-life balance to make peanuts with mediocre benefits. We want to celebrate our team by offering a competitive compensation package, a great benefits package with all of the coverages a person could ask for, and the ability to do your best work from a location that allows you to do your best work. All we ask is that you have a team-focused mentality, a solid work ethic, and a great attitude. Oh, and of course, the experience listed above…we can’t forget about that!