We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Johnny Montes. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Johnny below.

Johnny, appreciate you joining us today. Please tell us about starting your own firm and if you’d do anything different knowing what you know now.

I began working at an income tax office as a receptionist and there I learned to really love the accounting and tax field. Once I became licensed I was ready to start preparing tax returns however the office I was working at was at capacity for tax preparers and there was no space for me but they were able to connect me with a local businesses who had space for me to work out of and prepare tax returns. As I began to get situated in this new office I realized that I needed to get my own software for tax preparation which was not an issue however I soon realized that I could not electronically submit tax returns with a specific ID number that IRS issues. I eventually was able to obtain this ID number which took me about 12 months to receive from IRS. In the meantime, I had to paper file the tax returns which was an older method of submitting tax returns and takes longer to process. Looking back, I would have done more research on what was needed to begin my own tax office so that I could have been more prepared. Not knowing this made it a little difficult to get started but was also a learning process.

Johnny, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I began working at a local tax office and that’s where I really began to like the accounting and tax preparation field. I learned a lot of the basic tax filings and entry level tax forms. I began to study the tax codes and went on to get licensed to prepare tax returns. While working on growing my tax business I accepted a job at a public accounting firm and there is where I really learned a lot more of the tax codes and various business tax and compliance filings. Working there really helped me expand my knowledge not only with tax preparation but also various other filings that businesses are required to submit year round. Learning these additional services really helped me expand my business and allowed me to assist a wider range of clientele. Aside from really enjoying the field I’m in I also really enjoy working with people. Taxes can be a very scary, frustrating and confusing area for many and being able to help clients is what I enjoy the most. Taxes may seem like a once a year thing but situations can change at anytime so I make myself available all year to be there to assist clients and perspective new clients with questions and tax planning if needed to ensure they are prepared when it comes to filing their tax return.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

I have learned that the best way to build new clientele is to work with multiple sources. When I began my business, I initially partnered with the tax office I was previously at and when they would reach capacity they would refer prospective new clients to me. I quickly learned that I would need to use other avenues to expand my business to the level I wanted. I now also use Yelp to advertise and expand my reach of clients and social media to share content of the latest tax laws and changes to attract prospective new clients. I also canvas the local neighborhood and distribute flyers and business cards to local businesses. Lastly, I always make sure my existing clients leave with a great experience and I provide extra business cards for them pass out to family and friends who may need assistance with the services I offer.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Building and maintaining a good reputation is an important part of a successful business. Since the beginning, I make sure I treat my clients and prospective new clients with respect and honesty. I always have my client’s best interest when assisting them and make sure I explain everything in detail to make sure we are both on the same page at all times. When assisting clients, I always look for ways that could help lower their tax liability but making sure to always stay within the tax laws and guidelines.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.montestaxservices.com
• Instagram: @montestaxservices
• Yelp: Montes Tax Services