Founder & Principal

Gary Iskowitz, CPA

A pioneering figure in tax education and professional services, with over 50 years of experience serving the Los Angeles community.

Gary Iskowitz, CPA

Biography

Gary Iskowitz has built a successful practice comprised of a partner and 12 staff members, working with high-income individuals in the Los Angeles area. He has been fortunate to have both local and national television exposure, achievements that stem from an unlikely source in his academic career.

Gary Iskowitz's journey began in 1971 when, as a professor at California State University, Northridge, he recognized a critical need in the community. Many taxpayers, particularly those with lower incomes, lacked access to professional tax preparation services. This observation led him to create what would become one of the most impactful volunteer programs in American tax history.

The program Gary founded at CSUN was simple yet revolutionary: accounting students would provide free tax preparation services to community members while gaining invaluable hands-on experience. This initiative caught the attention of the Internal Revenue Service, which recognized its potential for national implementation.

What started as a local community service program evolved into the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, now operating at over 12,000 sites across the United States. Through VITA, millions of Americans receive free tax preparation services annually, while thousands of students gain practical experience in tax preparation and client service.

Gary's expertise and media-friendly approach to explaining complex tax matters have made him a sought-after commentator on tax issues. His appearances on national television programs, including "Live! with Regis and Kelly" and Fox's "Good Day LA," have helped demystify tax concepts for millions of viewers.

Today, Gary Iskowitz & Company continues to serve high-net-worth individuals and businesses throughout Los Angeles, providing comprehensive tax planning, preparation, and audit representation services. The firm's reputation for excellence and integrity reflects Gary's lifelong commitment to professional service and community involvement.

Career Highlights

1971

Founded VITA Program

Created the first Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program at CSU Northridge, providing free tax services to the community.

Founded VITA Program
1975

VITA Goes National

The IRS adopted Gary's VITA model as a national program, expanding to thousands of sites across America.

1980s

Established Private Practice

Founded Gary Iskowitz & Company, focusing on high-income individuals and complex tax situations.

Established Private Practice
2000s

Media Recognition

Became a regular contributor to national television programs, sharing tax expertise with millions of viewers.

Present

Continuing Legacy

Leading a team of 13 professionals serving the Los Angeles community with over 50 years of combined experience.

Continuing Legacy

Our Practice Today

Gary Iskowitz & Company has grown into one of Los Angeles' most respected tax and accounting firms.

13

Team Members

50+

Years of Experience

12,000+

VITA Sites Nationwide

Experience the Difference

Work with a team that combines decades of experience with a commitment to excellence and community service.