Andre Shammas is an experienced accountant and tax preparer at Shammas Bureau, a financial services firm based in El Cajon, California. With a background in tax preparation and budgeting, Andre is dedicated to helping individuals, families, and small businesses gain control over their finances. His approach is rooted in personalized advice, transparency, and a deep understanding of his clients’ unique needs. Growing up as an immigrant, Andre witnessed firsthand how financial literacy can empower people to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Outside of his work, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, exploring San Diego, and firing up the grill for a good BBQ. In this exclusive interview, Andre shares his thoughts on financial empowerment, the role of trust in client relationships, and how Shammas Bureau stands out in the financial services industry.
What sets Shammas Tax apart from other financial service providers?
At Shammas Bureau, we prioritize the individual. I’ve always believed that financial services should feel personal and approachable, not transactional or intimidating. Our mission is to build lasting relationships with clients by understanding their unique goals and challenges. Whether it’s a small business owner looking to streamline their taxes or a family trying to create a budget, we tailor our advice to their specific needs.
We also emphasize education. I want every client to leave our office feeling more confident and informed about their finances. Transparency is key—there’s no jargon, no hidden fees, and no cookie-cutter solutions. We’re here to empower, not just process paperwork.
What inspired you to enter the financial services industry?
My journey started with my family’s move to the United States. As immigrants, we faced a lot of financial uncertainty, from understanding how taxes worked to figuring out how to save for the future. Watching my parents navigate those challenges with determination inspired me to pursue a career where I could help others do the same.
When I studied accounting, it clicked for me—I realized I could combine my love of problem-solving with my desire to make a difference in people’s lives. That’s how Shammas Bureau was born. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about helping people create stability and opportunities for themselves and their families.
How do you approach working with first-time clients who are anxious about their finances?
First, I listen. Everyone’s financial journey is different, and it’s important to understand where they’re coming from before offering solutions. Many clients feel embarrassed or overwhelmed, but I remind them that no question is too small or situation too challenging.
Then, we break things down into manageable steps. Instead of tackling everything at once, we start with the basics—whether that’s organizing documents, identifying financial goals, or creating a simple budget. My goal is to build their confidence one step at a time. I want every client to feel supported and in control by the time they leave my office.
What’s the most common financial mistake you see small business owners make?
Mixing personal and business finances is a big one. It’s easy to do when you’re starting out, but it can lead to headaches down the road, especially during tax season or if you’re audited.
Another common mistake is not planning for taxes throughout the year. Many business owners focus on day-to-day operations and leave taxes as an afterthought, which can result in missed deductions or unexpected bills. That’s why I always recommend creating a system for tracking income and expenses consistently—it saves time, money, and stress.
What’s your philosophy on financial planning?
I believe financial planning is about creating freedom. A good financial plan isn’t restrictive; it’s empowering. It allows you to prioritize what matters most to you, whether that’s growing your business, buying a home, or saving for your kids’ education.
My approach is always holistic. It’s not just about saving on taxes or cutting expenses—it’s about aligning your financial habits with your long-term goals. When you have a clear plan and the tools to stick to it, you’re not just managing money; you’re building a life.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about taxes?
A lot of people think taxes are just about paying the government, but they’re really about opportunities. Smart tax planning allows you to keep more of what you earn by taking advantage of deductions, credits, and other strategies.
For example, many small business owners don’t realize how much they can save by claiming deductions for things like home office expenses, equipment, or employee benefits. Similarly, individuals often miss out on credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit because they don’t understand how they work. Taxes aren’t just a responsibility—they’re a chance to optimize your finances.
What role does trust play in your relationships with clients?
Trust is everything in this business. When someone comes to me for financial advice, they’re often sharing personal details about their life or business. That requires a level of vulnerability, and I don’t take it lightly.
To build trust, I focus on being transparent, honest, and dependable. I make sure clients understand every recommendation I make and why it benefits them. I also follow through on my commitments—whether it’s meeting deadlines, returning calls promptly, or providing ongoing support. Trust isn’t something you can buy or shortcut—it’s earned through consistency and care.
How has your experience as an immigrant shaped your business values?
My immigrant background has taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and community. Moving to a new country was a challenge, but it also gave me a unique perspective on the value of hard work and the opportunities that come with financial stability.
At Shammas Bureau, these values guide everything we do. I understand the struggles many of my clients face, especially those building something from the ground up. My goal is to provide the guidance and tools they need to succeed, just as I’ve had the privilege of doing.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their financial journey?
Start small, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Financial success isn’t about overnight changes—it’s about consistent, small steps that add up over time. Whether it’s creating your first budget, saving for an emergency fund, or filing taxes for the first time, every step brings you closer to your goals.
And don’t underestimate the power of education. The more you understand about your finances, the more confident you’ll feel making decisions. If you’re unsure where to begin, reach out to a professional who can guide you—it’s an investment in yourself and your future.
What’s next for Shammas Bureau?
We’re always looking for ways to improve and expand our services. One of our goals is to offer more educational resources, like workshops and webinars, to help people feel empowered in their financial lives.
We’re also exploring new technologies to make our services more accessible and efficient, from virtual consultations to digital tools for tracking expenses. At the end of the day, our mission remains the same: to provide personalized, reliable, and approachable financial guidance for everyone we serve.
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