We build lasting relationships.

We happen to do quality tax, accounting, and business consulting too.

Whatcom CPA Group is a team of business and tax advisors dedicated to helping individuals and businesses achieve their goals through strategic planning, consulting, and compliance services. Our forward-thinking approach and genuine commitment to client success drive us to partner closely with clients as trusted advisors. With a proven track record of excellence, our in-depth knowledge empowers us to deliver exceptional results.

Tax Planning 

We offer tax planning and compliance services for businesses and individuals. Taxes are stressful and complicated. Let us do the heavy lifting when it comes to navigating federal and state taxes so that you can focus on the important stuff. With a strong emphasis on planning, we look for the most favorable tax advantages and savings so more of what you earn stays in your pocket.

We work with clients to provide:

  • Strategic, proactive tax planning
  • State and local tax analysis and planning
  • Annual federal and state tax filings
  • Estate tax planning and compliance

Business Advisory Services 

We offer business advisory services for firms of all types, from startups needing some initial setup assistance and planning to mature companies looking for a transition plan. Mergers and acquisitions can be complex, expensive, and time-consuming, so we work hand-in-hand to guide you through the process. On the sell-side, we help you to understand your current business worth, prepare for a “no surprises” due diligence process, and put you in the best position to transfer your business for the value you deserve. On the buy-side, we determine your goals, explore your best options in the marketplace, pilot the due diligence process, and implement an optimal plan for transition and integration after close.

Additionally, we provide:

  • Business valuations
  • Business transition and exit planning
  • Value enhancement strategies
  • Acquisition review and planning
  • Expansion planning

Cross-Border Tax

We offer cross-border tax planning and compliance services for businesses and individuals. The U.S. tax law has many intricacies when it comes to global involvement by U.S. entities and involvement in the U.S. by foreign entities. The penalties for not filing in these situations can be significant, so it’s important to partner with an expert in the international taxation arena.

We work with clients to provide:

  • Federal, state, and local tax planning for businesses expanding into the U.S.
  • Transfer pricing analysis
  • Business structure analysis
  • Income tax planning for U.S. citizens living abroad
  • Annual federal tax filings including required foreign reporting
  • International estate and trust planning

Financial Statements

We offer a variety of services to help your business thrive. From compiling and reviewing financial statements to helping you organize your financial records for a smoother audit experience. Our expertise also extends to internal control advising, helping you establish robust systems to protect your assets and enhance operational efficiency.  

 

We offer:

  • Compilations and reviews
  • Audit preparation
  • Internal control advising

meet the team

Justin Remaklus, CPA

Director of tax & consulting

I love getting to know my clients and working with them to develop a strategic plan that provides the best pathway for their success. My approach includes leveraging my professional relationships to connect our clients with the right partners to help them accomplish more. My background is in cross-border planning, tax and business planning, M & A advisory, and estate planning where I can use my creative thinking to ensure our clients get the best result. I am passionate about building lasting relationships with clients as an integrated part of their team.

Tessa Ebbesen, CPA, MPAcc

managing director

My passion lies in helping people. To me, success is providing clients with the right guidance to operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. I love puzzling together financial records that clients can use to make educated business decisions. My experience is with closely-held companies and their owners in a variety of industries, from manufacturing and construction to retail and hospitality. A born and raised Bellinghamster, I feel strongly that connections help drive a business, so I enjoy using my strong relationships to introduce clients to other professionals who can help accelerate the success of their firm.

Kari Doss, CPA

MANAGER

Blaine Clary

senior Accountant

Paulina Stafford

senior Accountant

Manreet Kaur

Staff Accountant

Ariel Keyes

Staff accountant

Tiffany York

Accounting Services

Jamie Johnston

Client ServiceS Coordinator

Cassie Whelan DiGrazia

Client ServiceS Coordinator

Emily Ausboe

Client Services Coordinator

Jessi Whitehead

Business Manager, Director of HR

Hannah Drager

Office Administrator

1501 Eldridge Ave.
Bellingham, WA  98225