Business Details
9 Years
experience
Trusted Accounting Services in Santa Barbara, CA
Ballew & Fuhrman, CPAs is a boutique accounting firm in Santa Barbara, California, dedicated to providing comprehensive tax, accounting, and financial services. Founded in 2017, our firm combines deep technical expertise with a personalized approach to client relationships. We specialize in income tax preparation, strategic tax planning, audit representation, and real estate transaction support, leveraging Michael Fuhrman's unique dual expertise as a Certified Public Accountant and licensed real estate agent. Our team prioritizes sustainability through paperless operations and local economic support by sourcing goods and services from Santa Barbara-based providers.With over five years of IRS audit experience, Michael brings insider knowledge to navigate complex tax audits efficiently. Jeremy Ballew's background in business economics and political campaign accounting expands our capacity to serve diverse client needs. We maintain transparency in all communications, offering mobile services for added convenience. Our commitment to accuracy extends to detailed bookkeeping that provides clear financial insights for both individuals and businesses. By blending technical proficiency with community values, we aim to be trusted advisors who simplify complex financial matters while contributing positively to our local environment.
Services
Tax Preparation
Audit Representation
Bookkeeping Services
Real Estate Accounting
Tax Planning
IRS Support
Estate Taxation
Corporate Tax Services
1031 Exchanges
Mobile Accounting
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Certified Public Accountants with IRS audit expertise
- Dual-qualified real estate agent and tax professional
- Sustainable paperless operations since inception
- Personalized financial strategies for individuals and businesses
- Active community economic development through local sourcing
What people say
Sense of urgency
Professionalism
Reasonable prices
Thorough service
Expedited returns
Services
Tax Preparation
Comprehensive federal and state tax preparation services for individuals and businesses. Our CPAs ensure accurate filings while identifying legitimate deductions and credits. We handle complex scenarios including real estate transactions, 1031 exchanges, and political campaign committee reporting.
Audit Representation
Expert audit support led by a former IRS auditor. We analyze tax notices, develop response strategies, and represent clients during examinations. Our insider knowledge helps minimize liabilities while ensuring compliance with tax code requirements for both federal and state audits.
Bookkeeping Services
Detailed bookkeeping maintaining accurate financial records for businesses. Services include bank reconciliations, general ledger maintenance, and customized reporting. Our systems provide real-time financial insights to support informed business decisions and simplify year-end tax processes.
Real Estate Accounting
Specialized tax services for real estate transactions. Combining CPA expertise with active real estate licensing, we handle 1031 exchanges, property investment analysis, and tax consequence planning. Our services optimize tax outcomes for residential and commercial property transactions.
Tax Planning
Year-round strategic tax planning to minimize liabilities. We analyze financial situations to create proactive tax strategies, including entity selection, estate planning, and business succession strategies. Our approach ensures compliance while maximizing after-tax income for individuals and corporations.
People
Jeremy Ballew
Tax Principal
CPA with economics background specializing in tax planning and political campaign accounting. Licensed since 2009, he provides strategic financial advice while integrating family care services through flexible office policies.
Michael Fuhrman
Tax Principal
Former IRS auditor with MBA and real estate license. Specializes in complex tax audits and real estate transactions. Combines five years of federal audit experience with local market knowledge to deliver comprehensive tax solutions.
Finnegan Fuhrman
Chief Culture Officer
Office culture specialist maintaining workflow efficiency and client file security. Represents the firm's commitment to Santa Barbara community values through daily operations and environmental stewardship initiatives.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer?
We provide tax preparation, audit representation, bookkeeping, real estate financial services, and strategic tax planning for individuals and businesses.
Do you handle IRS audits?
Yes, our former IRS auditor specializes in audit defense, ensuring fair treatment while minimizing tax liabilities through proven strategies.
Are your services available locally?
Based in Santa Barbara, we serve local clients with in-person meetings and mobile services for greater convenience.
How do you support real estate transactions?
Our CPA with active real estate licensing provides specialized tax guidance for property purchases, sales, and 1031 exchanges.
What makes you different from other firms?
Combining IRS audit expertise, real estate knowledge, and sustainability commitment with personalized service tailored to each client's needs.
