a Boutique Tax and Financial Planning firm born of expertise and experience.
About our professional designations…
What is a “Certified Public Accountant”?
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is the most sought-after credential in the world of accounting. CPA candidates must complete 150 hours of college course work (typically culminating in a master's degree), and must pass a rigorous four-part, 16-hour examination. They also must meet rigorous continuing professional education requirements and are expected to follow a strict code of ethics and meet the high standards of the profession.
In addition, CPAs are fiduciaries with a legal duty and power to act on behalf of, and in the best interest of, their clients. Non-CPA accountants are not considered to be fiduciaries to their clients. Another significant factor is that CPAs are eligible to represent clients before the IRS if audit support is required, while a non-CPA accountant is not.
Selecting a CPA is crucial for top-notch tax advice.
What is a “Certified Financial Planner”?
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) has passed a series of strict education and certification requirements including passing a rigorous certification exam. A CFP maintains ethical and educational responsibilities to ensure they are able to provide comprehensive financial advice.
CFPs have a fiduciary duty to provide advice in their client’s best interest, even if it is not in the advisor’s financial interest. They have education and experience across a wide range of financial topics, from retirement planning and investments to taxes, insurance, and estate planning.
In contrast, just about anyone can call themselves a financial advisor. Unfortunately, this often results in promoting high-commission products when better options are available.
Using a CFP is crucial for expert financial advice.
AMY MCDONALD, cpa, cfp
Amy has over 25 years' experience working with individuals, small businesses, and non-profit organizations. After working for the international accounting firm Deloitte, Amy established her own CPA practice in 2008. Over time the practice has grown from a handful of loyal clients to several hundred active clients. Despite this growth, the goal has always remained to give personalized and consultative service to each individual we serve.
In 2021, Amy earned the designation of Certified Financial Planner, allowing the practice to more fully expand into financial planning and coaching services.
Amy received her Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Master of Accountancy degree in Tax from Brigham Young University. She passed the CPA exam in May 1999 earning top honors for her exam scores.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys her daily workouts, reading from good books, leading the youth in her local church congregation, and spending time with her family.