Finding a trustworthy tax professional is essential for both individuals and businesses to navigate the complex world of taxes. In 2024, as more people recognize the importance of financial planning and tax strategy, the demand for expert advice continues to rise. However, with only 2% of Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) in the U.S. being Black, many people search for professionals who not only excel in their field but also share a cultural understanding and commitment to serving their communities. Here, we introduce six Black tax professionals you should follow in 2024 for their expertise, practical tips, and leadership in the tax and finance world.
Why Its Important to Have a Good Tax Professional?
Taxes can be complicated, and the rules change every year. From tax deductions, credits, and business expenses to investment strategies and retirement planning, its crucial to find someone who can provide accurate advice. Not only will a knowledgeable tax pro help you file correctly, but they will also help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure youre maximizing your returns.
For Black taxpayers and business owners, finding a Black CPA can add a level of comfort and cultural understanding, often leading to stronger, more effective partnerships.
1. Nayo Carter-Gray 1st Step Accounting
Nayo Carter-Gray is a leading voice in the accounting world, known for her work as the CEO of 1st Step Accounting. She focuses on helping small businesses and entrepreneurs navigate their tax obligations while also making accounting more approachable through technology. As a Black CPA, Nayo is passionate about ensuring tax preparers are properly qualified, and she frequently educates the public on the risks of hiring ghost preparers unqualified individuals who may prepare taxes without the necessary credentials.
Nayo encourages taxpayers to verify their tax professionals by checking for a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) on the IRS website. She also advocates for using cloud-based accounting solutions, which make financial management easier for her clients.
Follow Nayo Carter-Gray for:
- Small business tax strategies
- Virtual accounting solutions
- Avoiding tax scams and fraudulent preparers
2. Joel Lee Thorough Financial Services
Joel Lee is the owner of Thorough Financial Services, where he specializes in e-filing and tax preparation. He advocates for using the IRS-approved e-filing system, which is faster and more secure than paper filing. Joel also emphasizes the importance of accuracy when filing taxes, explaining that IRS-approved software often guides taxpayers through the process step-by-step to reduce errors.
For people with simple tax returns, Joel recommends using free tools provided by the IRS, such as the IRS Free File program, to save money and time. However, he also recognizes that as tax situations become more complex, hiring a professional is the best course of action.
Follow Joel Lee for:
- E-filing tips and best practices
- Guidance on using IRS-approved software
- Advice for simplifying the tax preparation process
3. Calvin Harris CEO of New York State Society of CPAs
Calvin Harris is a CPA who has earned a reputation for his leadership as the CEO of the New York State Society of CPAs. He is a strong advocate for seeking professional help when tax returns involve complex situations like investments, small businesses, or rental properties. Calvin cautions taxpayers about the pitfalls of relying too heavily on tax software, which can lead to costly errors without professional oversight.
He stresses that even a small doubt about how to report certain income or deductions should prompt individuals to consult with a tax professional. With his wealth of experience, Calvin provides valuable insights into more advanced tax issues that individuals and businesses encounter.
Follow Calvin Harris for:
- Advice on managing complex tax returns
- Understanding the limitations of tax software
- Tax strategies for small businesses and investors
4. Angie Toney Oasis Tax Advisory Services
Angie Toney is the owner and CEO of Oasis Tax Advisory Services. With years of experience in tax preparation, she is a strong advocate for individuals gaining a basic understanding of taxes, especially when starting with simple W-2 filings. Angie believes that knowing how taxes are prepared empowers taxpayers to make better financial decisions and avoid overpaying taxes.
For more complex tax situations, such as reporting rental income, investments, or business activities, Angie advises working with a professional. She also highlights the importance of securely storing tax documents and keeping accurate records for future use. As a former tax expert for Intuit TurboTax, Angie has extensive knowledge of tax software and its limitations.
Follow Angie Toney for:
- Tax preparation basics for individuals
- Secure storage of tax documents
- Advanced tax advice for complex filings
5. Julian Davis Homrich Berg
Julian Davis is a director at Homrich Berg, where he specializes in tax planning and financial management. He focuses on helping his clients maximize deductions and credits to reduce their overall tax bills. Julian emphasizes the importance of proactive tax planning, meaning that individuals should take action during the tax year not just at tax time to minimize their liabilities.
One of his key recommendations is to make charitable contributions, pay your mortgage early, and contribute to retirement accounts throughout the year to ensure these deductions are available when you file your return. Julians forward-thinking approach helps clients avoid big surprises at tax time.
Follow Julian Davis for:
- Year-round tax planning strategies
- Maximizing deductions and credits
- Proactive financial management advice
6. Sheneya Wilson The Peoples CPA
Sheneya Wilson, known as The People's CPA, is a rising star in the world of tax preparation and financial literacy. She is the founder of Fola Financial, a firm dedicated to educating minority communities about wealth-building strategies, taxes, and financial empowerment. Sheneyas approach focuses on making financial knowledge accessible, particularly for young entrepreneurs and those who may be unfamiliar with complex tax concepts.
Her relatable style and commitment to providing practical, easy-to-understand tax advice have made her a sought-after speaker and consultant. Sheneya also highlights the importance of proper bookkeeping and accounting for small businesses, ensuring that clients avoid unnecessary penalties and fees.
Follow Sheneya Wilson for:
- Financial literacy education
- Tax strategies for entrepreneurs
- Practical advice for small businesses
Conclusion
In 2024, navigating tax season can be made easier by following these top Black tax professionals. From personal tax returns to complex business filings, these experts offer valuable insights that can help you avoid mistakes, maximize deductions, and plan for a financially secure future. Whether youre an individual filer, a small business owner, or an investor, these six Black CPAs are leading the way in making tax advice more accessible and effective.
By following their advice, you can take control of your taxes and make informed decisions that benefit your financial health. More importantly, supporting Black CPAs contributes to a more diverse and inclusive financial industry, where every community has access to trusted experts who understand their unique needs.
