Business Details
24 Years
experience
Your Trusted Accounting Partner in Pinellas County
Established in 2002, Bankes Planning Associates is a Pinellas County-based CPA firm dedicated to delivering personalized accounting, tax, and financial advisory services. Our approach centers on understanding each client's unique goals, whether they operate in healthcare, law, real estate, or other industries. With over 33 years of experience, we specialize in solving complex accounting challenges, minimizing tax liabilities, and creating wealth management strategies tailored to business owners and high-net-worth individuals. Our team combines technical expertise with proactive guidance to help clients make informed decisions that drive long-term success. We offer scalable solutions for small businesses, including QuickBooks setup, outsourced CFO services, and incorporation advisory.Our commitment to client relationships ensures access to timely advice and support whenever financial questions arise. As a firm, we prioritize transparency, ethical practices, and continuous education to stay ahead of evolving tax regulations and industry trends. Our services extend beyond traditional accounting to include retirement planning, estate strategies, and business succession planning. Located in Pinellas County, we serve clients across Florida and 15 additional states, maintaining a strong focus on local community needs. By combining personalized attention with comprehensive financial expertise, we aim to be the trusted partner businesses and individuals rely on for sustained growth and financial security.
Services
Small Business Accounting
Tax Preparation
Wealth Management
Business Incorporation
Outsourced CFO Services
IRS Tax Problem Resolution
QuickBooks Support
Estate Planning
Financial Consulting
Retirement Planning
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer 33+ years of CPA experience in solving complex accounting challenges.
- Our services are tailored to specific industries including healthcare, law, and real estate.
- We provide proactive tax planning to minimize liabilities while ensuring compliance.
- Our outsourced CFO services deliver executive-level financial guidance at a fraction of the cost.
- We combine technical expertise with personalized client relationships for long-term success.
Associations and certifications
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Personal Financial Specialist (PFS)
Services
Small Business Accounting
Our small business accounting services provide comprehensive financial management tailored to your specific industry needs. We handle bookkeeping, financial reporting, and payroll processing while offering strategic guidance to improve cash flow and profitability. With expertise in QuickBooks setup and outsourced CFO support, we help business owners focus on growth while maintaining accurate financial records.
Wealth Management
Our wealth management services create personalized strategies for business owners and high-net-worth individuals to preserve and transfer wealth. Through retirement planning, estate strategies, and investment management, we help clients achieve long-term financial goals. Partnering with Belleair Wealth Management, we ensure comprehensive solutions that adapt to changing life circumstances and tax regulations.
Tax Preparation
We offer complete tax preparation services for businesses and individuals, ensuring accurate filings and compliance with current regulations. Our strategic tax planning minimizes liabilities while maximizing refunds. We also specialize in resolving IRS tax problems and providing year-round tax advisory to help clients make informed financial decisions.
Business Incorporation
Our business incorporation services guide new entrepreneurs through entity selection, paperwork filing, and tax ID applications. We help clients choose optimal structures like LLCs or S-Corporations to minimize tax burdens and protect personal assets. We also assist with QuickBooks setup and ongoing accounting support for new businesses.
Outsourced CFO Services
Our outsourced CFO services deliver executive-level financial expertise at a fraction of the cost of hiring in-house. We provide cash flow analysis, strategic tax planning, and business performance improvement strategies. This service helps growing businesses navigate financial challenges while maintaining cost-effective operations and long-term growth.
People
James A. Bankes
Owner / Certified Public Accountant
James Bankes is a CPA with over 33 years of experience serving businesses across multiple industries. He founded Bankes Planning Associates in 2002 after working with mid-sized firms and family offices. His expertise includes financial planning, tax strategy, and business advisory services for clients in Florida and 15 other states.
Patti Bankes
Director of Public Relations
Patti Bankes serves as Director of Public Relations, managing client relationships and satisfaction. With over 18 years in sales and marketing, she connects clients with the firm's resources while supporting James Bankes in delivering comprehensive financial solutions to businesses and individuals.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide small business accounting, bookkeeping, QuickBooks support, payroll processing, and financial reporting tailored to your specific industry needs.
Do you offer tax planning and preparation services?
Yes, we offer comprehensive tax services including preparation, strategic planning to minimize liabilities, and resolution of IRS tax problems.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Pinellas County, Florida, including Clearwater and Largo, with clients across Florida and 15 additional states.
Can you help with business incorporation?
Yes, we guide clients through entity selection, paperwork filing, and tax ID applications to establish new businesses effectively.
What is your experience with wealth management?
Our firm offers retirement planning, estate strategies, and asset management through Belleair Wealth Management, focusing on long-term financial security.
Is there a free consultation available?
Yes, we provide a no-cost, no-obligation introductory consultation to discuss your accounting, tax, or financial planning needs.
