Maria Arriola, CPA

Maria Arriola is a Partner at LSL CPAs with over 30 years of experience delivering assurance and tax services to privately held businesses, nonprofits, and employee benefit plans. Her deep industry knowledge spans real estate, healthcare, and manufacturing and distribution, where she helps clients navigate complex financial reporting, optimize tax strategies, and plan for long-term growth.

Maria leads LSL’s Not-for-Profit and ERISA Pension Plan Audit Department, overseeing audits for labor unions, associations, and 401(k) plans. She’s known for staying ahead of changing regulations and guiding her clients through the evolving landscape of Department of Labor requirements and industry best practices.

In the real estate sector, Maria brings advanced tax planning strategies to the table—including cost segregation, 1031 exchanges, capital financing, and debt restructuring—to help clients improve cash flow and make informed investment decisions. Maria is actively involved in CREW-OC, one of Orange County’s premiere commercial real estate networks for women leaders.

Maria is also a trusted advisor to manufacturing and distribution companies, offering practical insights into cost management, cash flow analysis, and the operational complexities of the industry. Her hands-on approach and commitment to client success make her a go-to resource for business owners who want more than just compliance—they want a partner who understands their challenges and can help them move forward with clarity.

Off the clock… Maria is all about family. She comes from a big, loud Cuban family and wouldn’t have it any other way. Her favorite role? Grandma. She loves spending time with her grandkids, showering them with attention, treats, and plenty of love!

Professional and Civic Involvement:

Firm member, PrimeGlobal
Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
Member, California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CalCPA)
Member, Commercial Real Estate Women of Orange County (CREW-OC)
Member, Western Pension & Benefits Association
Licensed as a Registered Representative and Life Agent

Education:

B.A. degree in Business Administration with an Accounting emphasis, California State University, Fullerton