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Biography of Joseph A. SmithTD2013b

“My years of experience have taught me that many issues are not recognized at the time people initially seek my assistance.  These “real” issues are often more important to resolve than those my clients originally recognized.

My analysis and processes are intended to identify these issues and the unintended consequences from their prior actions. Our clients’ best interest always comes first”

~ Joe Smith

EXPERIENCE

JAS Financial Services LLC was formed in January 2009 to provided Fee-Only Financial Planning,  Investment Management, and Advisement Services. My primary focus is helping people. I ask questions, listen, and guide clients to address their concerns to meet their aspirations. I strive to be as objective as possible in all aspects of the relationship with each client.

I moved to the Chicago area, after selling my  CPA firm, JAS Inc. I joined another financial planning firm before in Evanston before establishing JAS Financial Services LLC.

JAS, Inc

JAS Inc. was formed in 1988 as a full-service CPA firm in Cincinnati, Ohio. Planning was a significant part of all services provided. Services were provided primarily to individuals, businesses, and trusts.

The initial name of the firm was Joseph A. Smith, CPA & Co. The name was changed to JA Smith Inc reflecting the importance of additional services (including financial planning and investment management) offered. The name was changed 2006 to JAS, Inc when the practice was sold. I remained with the successor firm for a year to assist in the successful transition of the clients.

Joseph Smith ‘s experience prior to founding this firm included:

  • Local CPA firm
  • Manager in the Tax Department of Grant Thornton (Alexander Grant)
  • Senior in the Tax Department of Price Waterhouse Cooper (Price Waterhouse)
  • Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a field agent

Responsibilities in the above positions in addition to planning and research included:
internal training, client presentations, radio appearances and public presentations.

Presentation topics included: financial, income tax, gift tax, estate tax, trust tax, real estate, insurance, medical practice management, compensation planning and general business topics.

Presentations were for professional, technical, industry, educational and general groups.

EDUCATION/PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

  • Miami University – 1966 – Bachelor of Science in Business
  • Personal Financial Specialist – AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) – 1966
  • Cleveland-Marshall College  of Law – Juris Doctor – 1970
  • Licensed to Practice Law by Supreme Court of Ohio – 1970
  • Licensed as a Certified Public Accountant – Ohio – 1972
  • Accredited Estate Planner (AEP)® – 1994
  • Licensed as a Certified Public Accountant – Illinois – 2006
  • NAPFA (National Association of Personal Financial Planners)-Registered Financial Advisor – 2008