An Orange County CPA You Can Actually Talk To

Certifications

Certified Public Accountant

Certified Financial Planner

Quickbooks Pro Advisor

Certified Tax Advisor Network

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James Larsen, CPA

949-545-9252

james@darkhorse.cpa

TITLE

Principal

HOMETOWN

Phoenix, AZ

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

19

EDUCATION

You never achieve success unless you like what you are doing.

— Dale Carnegie

James Larsen knew he wanted to be a Dark Horse CPA. Timing, however, isn't always straightforward or even predictable. But the thing about timing is that when the time is right, you know it...in fact, you can feel it. Such is the case for James, and such is the time at the writing of this bio entry. James enters Dark Horse as a Principal, merging his existing practice into the firm. James modeled his practice after the concept of being a holistic accountant to his clients, treating the client as a complete entity to address their business needs and their global financial situation. With Dark Horse, he now has more resources to deliver on this promise at the highest level.

James earned his accounting degree from California State University, Northridge and his master's in taxation from Golden Gate University. He is licensed as a CPA in both California and Arizona and a CFP in the state of Arizona. He's a member of the AICPA and California Society of Public Accountants. Is he highly credentialed? Yes. It's how he puts these credentials to work (which he's done for 15 years) that adds value to his clients' financial and tax situations. James is an expert in providing accounting and tax services to individuals, corporations, partnerships, LLCs, trusts, estates and non-profits. These services include business and personal finances management, tax resolution, business succession planning (purchase and sale consulting), business startup consulting, wealth management, estate planning, elder care and business management/accounting software implementation...just to name a few.

When not providing those accounting and tax services, James can be found away from his desk, likely outdoors playing softball, boating, camping, skiing, barbecuing or traveling. He even has a strong interest in astronomy. James is married to his wife, Mishell, and their family consists of a daughter (Brynn) and two dogs (Sofie and Callie).

Specialties

Estate Trusts Tax Services

High-Net Worth Individuals

1031 Exchanges

Business Personal Tax Strategy

Strategic Tax Financial Planning

Industries

Non-Profits

Real Estate

Medical Practices

Professional Athletes

Your Orange County CPA for Tax and Accounting Advisory

Orange County’s vibrant economy is driven by technology and professional services across The OC, demanding financial expertise that goes beyond simple compliance. Whether you are an entrepreneur in Irvine or a family seeking proactive tax strategy and accounting support, your dedicated Orange County CPA, James Larsen, is here to help.

As a Principal at Dark Horse CPAs, James provides strategic tax planning and accounting advisory tailored to Santa Ana businesses and individuals. From minimizing tax liability and navigating California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) compliance to guiding long-term growth strategies, he delivers modern, hands-on solutions that create total financial clarity and confidence.

With James, you gain more than a CPA because you gain a proactive advisor and financial partner committed to your success in South County. Secure your future in one of California’s most competitive markets with a strategic expert dedicated to your sustainable growth.

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JAMES LARSEN, PRINCIPAL

Dark Horse was what I was looking for my whole career. A firm that's aligned horizontally rather than the vertical, top-down approach of traditional CPA firms where the ones at the top "know what's best for all of us." With Dark Horse, we all have an equal say in which direction we want to go. This lends itself to what's best for the client and that's what we as CPAs strive for...helping our clients in every way we can and providing value to be a trusted partner forever.

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Tax Strategy & Accounting Solutions for Orange County Businesses

The Problem: Many entrepreneurs in The OC struggle without accurate financial data or the strategic tax guidance required to stay competitive. California companies face aggressive Franchise Tax Board (FTB) oversight including sales tax and payroll compliance. Operating in Irvine or Newport Beach without proactive planning leads to costly reporting errors and missed opportunities for growth.

The Solution: At Dark Horse CPAs, we combine bookkeeping, tax compliance, and forward-looking tax strategy for Orange County businesses. From managing complex California Nexus issues and IRS filings to delivering cash flow planning and Fractional CFO-level advisory, we provide total financial clarity. Our Advisory-First approach ensures you have a dedicated partner committed to your long-term success in the competitive Santa Ana and South County business ecosystems.

Solutions for Businesses

JAMES LARSEN, PRINCIPAL

“Knowing is half the battle. Businesses without clear financials risk falling short, but with professional accounting, our clients always know where they stand—backed by a trusted advisor to guide their next steps.”

Tax Strategy & Compliance for Orange County Locals

The Problem: Too often residents across The OC discover tax surprises at filing time, such as owing more than expected or missing critical planning opportunities. Given California's high state income tax and complex property tax laws, navigating compliance in cities like Newport Beach or Irvine can be overwhelming without a proactive strategy to maximize your annual savings.

The Solution: At Dark Horse CPAs, we believe in a No Surprises philosophy to protect your wealth. We work proactively with families across South County to minimize liability and ensure total compliance with federal and California Franchise Tax Board requirements. From real estate planning to investment and multi-state filings, every engagement includes a customized strategy so you can move forward with total financial confidence.

Tax & Wealth Advisory for Individuals

JAMES LARSEN, PRINCIPAL

"New clients often tell me their previous tax accountant just did their tax return, which is a commodity. What sets me apart is offering value-added services like strategic tax planning to help you pay the least amount of taxes legally possible. I'm available year-round to provide tailored tax planning advice, not just during tax season."

Nancy R.

I have used James Larsen as my CPA for many years and am confident in his work ethic and tax knowledge.

Kyle T.

With our prior accountant we didn't feel we were receiving adequate tax guidance and felt we were always paying more than our fair share of taxes. We have been very pleased with the service we have received with Adam Ripperdan. He has taken the time to review in detail our current situation and upcoming plans. With that information he has helped us create tax strategies for our businesses, investments, and personal taxes that not only help us save on taxes but also helps us plan for the future. I highly recommend Dark Horse CPAs.

Joe Coombs

At Unbridled Advisory, we value partnerships that demonstrate technical expertise, proactive problem-solving, and a client-first mindset. Working with Teddy Mizerak, CPA of Dark Horse CPAs has exemplified all of these traits and more.

Teddy's deep knowledge of financial structures and tax strategies has been instrumental in driving success for our mutual clients. His ability to navigate complex scenarios with precision while offering clear and actionable insights sets him apart in the field. What truly stands out is his collaborative approach—he takes the time to understand the unique needs of each business, ensuring solutions are both effective and tailored.

Teddy's professionalism and responsiveness have made him an invaluable resource. Whether it's tackling intricate tax planning, addressing compliance challenges, or identifying opportunities for optimization, Teddy consistently delivers exceptional results.We highly recommend Teddy Mizerak to any organization seeking a CPA who goes beyond the numbers, bringing both strategic vision and exceptional execution to the table. It’s been a privilege to work alongside him, and we look forward to continued collaboration.

Patrick W.

I was referred to Max by a friend who is also a small business owner. I was definitely in need of direction when it came to my finances. After speaking with Max I was able to understand how I can be efficient in the accounting side of my business and he and his team is there to guide me every step of the way. I'm now confident I have the right team watching my books I highly recommend Max and Dark Horse CPAs.

Dave Risha

Craig Trimble at Dark Horse CPAs has been remarkable. His knowledge of the tax laws, his ability to ask questions that I never considered has saved my family and I thousands of dollars over the past three years. I used to use Turbo Tax and the first year I switched, I save over $20,000 over what my Turbo Tax amount worked out to be. That is a remarkable return for the small fee I was charged. I highly recommend Dark Horse CPAs. If you are using a software program to do your business and personal taxes, this year, try both and see for yourself.

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