Tax Talk at the Table: How to Teach Kids About Money Without Boring Them
By Andre Shammas As a tax preparer and accountant in El Cajon, California, I talk to adults every day who feel overwhelmed by money—how to budget it, how to save it, and especially how to understand their taxes. What’s even more common is hearing them say, “I wish someone taught me this when I was […]
Every Dollar Counts: How Small Financial Habits Create Big Results Over Time
When people think about financial success, they often imagine big moves—buying property, making large investments, or landing a six-figure salary. But in my experience as a tax preparer and accountant here in El Cajon, California, the truth is much simpler: lasting financial health is built on small, consistent habits. You don’t need to earn a […]
Side Hustle, Big Impact: What Every Freelancer Needs to Know About Budgeting and Taxes
By Andre Shammas Over the years, I’ve worked with a growing number of freelancers, side hustlers, and gig workers—from graphic designers and Uber drivers to Etsy shop owners and part-time consultants. One thing I’ve learned is this: freelancing offers incredible freedom, but it also demands financial discipline. When you’re working for yourself—even part-time—nobody is automatically […]
From Paycheck to Peace of Mind: A Simple, Realistic Budgeting System for Working Families
By Andre Shammas As a tax preparer and accountant, I’ve worked with families from all walks of life. I’ve seen first-hand how challenging it can be to juggle daily expenses, unexpected costs, and long-term financial goals—especially when you’re raising a family. For many working households, the goal isn’t becoming rich overnight—it’s achieving peace of mind. […]
The Best Accounting Tools for Self-Employed Professionals in 2025
Being self-employed comes with a lot of freedom—but it also comes with responsibilities. One of the biggest challenges freelancers, independent contractors, and solo business owners face is managing their finances effectively. You’re not just doing the work you love—you’re also your own accountant, bookkeeper, and tax preparer. At Shammas Tax, we work with many self-employed […]
Year-End Tax Checklist: How to Close Out Your Books and Prepare for the New Year
As the year comes to an end, small business owners have a lot to think about. One of the most important tasks is closing out your books and preparing for tax season. Doing this properly can save you money, prevent stress, and help you start the new year on the right foot. A well-organized approach […]
How to Make the Most of Tax Deductions: A Guide for Self-Employed Individuals
Being self-employed comes with many perks—flexibility, control over your business, and the ability to set your own schedule. However, it also means taking full responsibility for your taxes. Unlike traditional employees who have taxes withheld from their paychecks, self-employed individuals must manage their own tax obligations, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news? The […]
The Ultimate Tax Prep Checklist: What You Need to Gather Before Filing Your Taxes
Tax season can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. One of the easiest ways to make filing your taxes smoother and less overwhelming is to prepare ahead of time. By gathering the necessary documents and information early, you can save time, avoid errors, and ensure you’re taking advantage of all the deductions and […]
Top 10 Tax Deductions for Small Business Owners You Don’t Want to Miss
Running a small business can be both rewarding and challenging, and tax season often feels like one of the more overwhelming parts of the job. The good news is that there are many tax deductions available to small business owners that can significantly reduce your taxable income and boost your bottom line. Knowing what you […]
The Role of Budgeting in Building Long-Term Financial Security
When it comes to building a stable financial future, budgeting is often seen as the first and most important step. But what many people don’t realize is that budgeting isn’t just about managing your money in the short term—it’s about laying the groundwork for long-term financial security. Whether you’re saving for retirement, planning to buy […]