Providing accounting services is about more than just crunching numbers. To do it right, you really need to know the details of client businesses and how they operate.”
Article originally published in livingmagazine.net, May 2021 – Leading Women (special edition) Article by Samantha Gluck. Photo by Scott Peek Photography
If you long to keep more of your hard-earned money in your account, you need to consider talking to the pros at Andre + Associates, PC. Founded in 1986 and celebrating 35 years of business this year, the full-service CPA fi rm now employs over 18 team members.
MELISSA SIMMONS, MANAGING PARTNER
Managing Partner Melissa Simmons, a team member with Andre + Associates for 31 years, specializes in retirement planning and also handles personal and business taxes and accounting. “I’ve been an Enrolled Agent since 1994 and a CPA since 2009. Ever since I began, I’ve always had a passion for helping people plan their fi nances and achieve the goals associated with that, especially retirement,” says Ms. Simmons. Her working style involves truly taking the time to get to know clients and building a strong bond of trust with them. “It’s crucial that I understand the unique position each person is coming from,” she explains, adding, “because that’s an essential part of developing a customized fi nancial plan.” This personal approach, and her extensive knowledge and work ethic, have helped her earn a reputation of excellence in the community.
What is your personal vision for your retirement years? Do you want a “second act” career after retirement? Or, maybe you envision a life of travel and sightseeing, or something else. Whatever you imagine, with Ms. Simmons as your trusted advisor, she can help you put all the pieces together to make your dreams come true.
RACHEL LOPEZ, PARTNER AND ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Partner and Accounting Manager Rachel Lopez has worked at Andre + Associates for 20 years. In addition to earning her CPA in 2016, Ms. Lopez is also a QuickBooks Advanced Certifi ed ProAdvisor, which allows her to provide training and support across the QuickBooks product line. She says, “Growing up, my father had his own business, and I saw him work so very hard. This experience inspired me to pursue a career where I could help people keep more money in their pockets.” Ms. Lopez pointed out that regular taxpayers miss out on legal and safe deductions amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars in unclaimed money annually.
Ms. Lopez manages the Accounting and Payroll Department for the fi rm, providing expert services in monthly accounting, payroll, and tax preparation for a broad range of small business clients. She is dedicated to developing a strong trust relationship with her clients, understanding the unique needs of their businesses and personal concerns. “Providing accounting services is about more than just crunching numbers. To do it right, you really need to know the details of client businesses and how they operate,” she explains. This dynamic team of leading women collaborates with one another and with founding partner Keith Andre, giving clients the best personalized service available.