Andre Shammas is an experienced tax preparer based in El Cajon, California, specializing in helping individuals, families, and small business owners navigate the complexities of tax planning and financial management. With years of experience in tax preparation and financial guidance, Andre has developed a reputation for his practical, no-nonsense approach to personal and business taxes. His passion lies in helping people maximize their savings, reduce their tax burdens, and plan for a financially stable future. As someone who has worked closely with diverse clients, from self-employed entrepreneurs to everyday taxpayers, Andre believes that financial success is not just about numbers—it’s about creating security, peace of mind, and opportunities for growth.
In this exclusive Q&A, Andre shares his thoughts on what success means to him, how he defines financial stability, and why smart tax planning is one of the most underrated keys to success.
What does success look like to you?
Success, to me, isn’t just about financial wealth or achieving a specific income level. It’s about having control over your financial situation and feeling confident in your future. Success is when you no longer feel stressed every tax season, when you can plan ahead and know your financial goals are within reach.
For my clients, success often means different things. For a small business owner, success might be finally making enough to hire their first employee. For a young professional, it might be saving enough for a down payment on a home. And for families, it’s often about ensuring financial stability for their children’s future.
Ultimately, success is about building a financial foundation that allows you to focus on what truly matters in life, whether that’s growing a business, supporting your family, or simply enjoying peace of mind.
How has your perspective on success changed over the years?
When I first started working in tax preparation, I thought success was all about numbers—how much money you made, how many clients you had, or how much you could help someone save. But over time, I realized it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the impact you have on people’s lives.
I’ve seen people go from feeling completely overwhelmed by their finances to having a clear plan and feeling empowered. That shift is what I consider real success—when a client feels in control of their future instead of fearing it.
Now, I define success in terms of how well I can educate and empower my clients. The more people I help become financially confident, the more successful I feel in my work.
What is one habit that contributes to financial success?
Consistency. Whether it’s saving a little bit every month, keeping track of expenses, or planning for taxes year-round, financial success is built on small, consistent habits.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until tax season to think about their finances. The most successful people—whether they’re individuals or business owners—plan ahead, track their spending, and adjust their strategies throughout the year.
I always tell my clients: You don’t need to be perfect with money—you just need to be consistent. Small, smart financial decisions add up over time.
What’s one financial mistake you see holding people back from success?
Not planning for taxes. I can’t tell you how many people come to me in panic mode during tax season because they didn’t set money aside or didn’t realize how much they owed. Taxes aren’t just something you deal with once a year—they’re part of your overall financial health.
A lot of people think that taxes are just about paying the government, but smart tax planning can actually help you build wealth. If you’re self-employed, there are so many deductions and strategies you can use to lower your taxable income and keep more of your earnings. If you’re an employee, understanding how to adjust your withholdings or take advantage of deductions can help you avoid overpaying or owing too much at the end of the year.
A lack of tax planning creates unnecessary stress and costs people money that they could have saved with just a little foresight.
What advice would you give to someone who feels like financial success is out of reach?
Start with one small change. Too many people think financial success is about making huge, dramatic changes overnight, but it’s really about small, consistent improvements.
- If you’re struggling with debt, start by paying just a little extra each month.
- If you don’t have savings, set up an automatic transfer of even $10 per week—it adds up.
- If you’ve never thought about tax planning, start tracking your expenses now so you’re prepared for next year.
Financial success isn’t about where you are today; it’s about where you’re headed. The most important thing is to take control of your finances instead of letting them control you.
How do you help your clients define and achieve success?
The first step is always listening. Every client has different financial goals, and my job isn’t just to prepare their taxes—it’s to help them create a strategy that moves them toward success.
I help clients:
- Understand their financial situation so they can make informed decisions.
- Identify tax-saving strategies that align with their goals.
- Plan for the future instead of just reacting to financial stress.
A big part of what I do is removing the fear around taxes and financial planning. I want people to know that they have more control than they think—they just need the right tools and knowledge to move forward.
Final Thoughts: Success Is Within Reach
At the end of the day, success isn’t just about how much money you make—it’s about how much control you have over your financial future. It’s about understanding your taxes, planning ahead, and making smart decisions that set you up for stability and growth.
No matter where you’re starting from, financial success is possible. It doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right strategies and guidance, you can build a strong financial future for yourself and your family.
If you need help navigating your taxes, understanding deductions, or creating a financial plan that works for you, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to make financial success your reality.