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Business Details
39 Years
experience
Trusted Tax Preparation & Bookkeeping Services in La Quinta, CA
Founded in 1987, Palm Desert Tax has established itself as a trusted leader in tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services. Our family-run business combines decades of expertise with a personalized approach, serving individuals, families, and businesses nationwide. With over 1,000 clients and a team of certified professionals, we prioritize accuracy, transparency, and client satisfaction. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 30-year track record of helping clients maximize savings and achieve financial success. We offer free consultations, fast turnarounds, and tailored solutions to meet diverse financial needs. Our team includes specialists like Richard Varnell, an Enrolled Agent with over 30 years of experience, and Norma Rae Hill, renowned for her expertise in tax planning. We serve clients locally in the Coachella Valley and across the U.S., ensuring compliance and efficiency in every service.

Our dedication to continuous improvement is evidenced by our use of state-of-the-art systems and integration with QuickBooks for seamless financial management. We pride ourselves on accessibility, offering direct communication with our team and prompt responses to client inquiries. With a client retention rate of over 30 years for some, we remain committed to building lasting relationships through integrity and exceptional service.
Services
Tax Preparation Bookkeeping Services Payroll Services Business Management Consulting Tax Planning
Details
  • Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
  • We offer over 30 years of experience in tax and accounting services.
  • Our team provides personalized attention with certified, knowledgeable professionals.
  • We guarantee fast turnarounds and budget-friendly pricing.
  • Our family-run business prioritizes client trust and long-term relationships.
  • We serve clients nationwide with localized expertise in the Coachella Valley.
What people say
Professional, courteous, knowledgeable Outstanding work ethics Helpful and accessible Big returns Fast response
Services
Tax Preparation
We provide comprehensive tax preparation for individuals and businesses, ensuring compliance and maximizing refunds. Our specialists handle federal, state, and international returns with meticulous attention to detail. Clients benefit from personalized consultations and electronic filing for rapid processing.
Bookkeeping Services
Our bookkeeping services include balance sheets, profit/loss statements, and sales tax returns. We use integrated systems to maintain accurate records and offer customized packages for small to large businesses. Clients receive clear QuickBooks files and ongoing financial support.
Payroll Services
We manage payroll processing with direct deposit, quarterly reporting, and W-2 preparation. Our services ensure compliance with tax regulations and include financial statements for informed business decisions. Clients receive dedicated support for payroll tax returns.
People
Richard Varnell
Owner, Enrolled Agent
Richard Varnell founded Palm Desert Tax in 1987 and has over 30 years of experience as an Enrolled Agent. He specializes in tax planning for ministers and small businesses, combining accounting expertise with a Doctorate in Ministry.
Norma Rae Hill
Tax Professional
Norma Rae Hill has served clients for over a decade, specializing in individual and business tax returns. Her expertise in maximizing deductions and client-focused approach have earned her consistent praise from long-term clients.
Jennifer Gomez
Tax Specialist
Jennifer Gomez is recognized for her knowledge in complex tax scenarios and exceptional client service. She has supported families and businesses for over 12 years, earning referrals from satisfied clients.
Questions
What services does Palm Desert Tax offer?
We provide tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll services, and financial consulting for individuals and businesses.
Do you serve clients outside the Coachella Valley?
Yes, we serve clients nationwide while maintaining local expertise in the Coachella Valley.
Are your consultations free?
Yes, we offer free no-obligation consultations to discuss your financial needs.
How experienced is your team?
Our team includes professionals with over 30 years of experience and certifications like Enrolled Agent status.
Can you handle complex tax situations?
Yes, we specialize in complex scenarios including nonprofits, small businesses, and international tax returns.
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Reviews (7)
Mendy W.
Sep 02, 2021 Report
Richard Varnell has been handling our taxes for years! Always does a great job! We are confident he takes good care of us. We never doubt he knows his stuff!
Rachel Deatherage
Jun 21, 2021 Report
Palm Desert Tax is literally the best. My husband and I are ministers and come to Mr. Varnell every year to file our taxes. Mr. Varnell is so helpful to us. His staff is very professional and helpful. Definitely recommend using their services. You will not be disappointed. Aaron & Rachel Glasco
Kelley Corten
May 20, 2021 Report
Best tax service ever! My family have been customers for decades. Richard is so outstanding, helpful, and kind. The whole team works hard to make the tax season experience as smooth as possible and their level of professionalism excellent.
Jeff Flint
May 01, 2021 Report
We've been working with Palm Desert Tax since 2009 when we started our business. We have had over 10 successful years thanks to Norma Rae and Jennifer who prepare both our personal and corporate tax returns as well as our quarterly Board of Equalization payments. I am very dedicated to their expertise and excellent customer service. We couldn't have made it without them! Thank you!
Diane Lynn Kohnen
Apr 28, 2021 Report
I have been filing my taxes with Palm Desert tax since moving to the desert 14 years ago. I am always grateful for the excellent service. I recently became a business owner and was very happy to be guided in how to start my first S Corp. if you want quality service from those who have an extensive knowledge of all things tax related, Palm Desert tax is the place to go.
Ashley Herzog
Mar 24, 2021 Report
Richard and the Palm Desert Tax team have been integral in making tax season stress-free. We have used Richard for the past several years and after walking us through cleaning up a mess a different tax professional left in our laps he has delivered consistent top notch results. He has created a culture from himself to his staff of personable professionalism and it shows in every step of the process. Highly recommend Richard and his team at Palm Desert Tax!
Joseph Ruiz
Mar 17, 2021 Report
Had Norma and her team referred to me by a mutual friend. Glad I went with them since her team really helped me organize my 2020 tax and file them aswell. Very helpful and professional service. I appreciate all the help and I highly recommended PDT.