Jason Deshayes, CPA/PFS, CFP®, CKA®

What is your financial superpower?

I can simplify the complex and break down complicated problems into a quick task list for us to work on together. I also avoid getting too much in the weeds—I want to help you, not confuse you.

With my background as a CPA and CFP, I can help balance both your tax and financial planning needs, while keeping the big picture in mind.

What makes you unique as an advisor?

My CPA experience and financial planning perspective allow me to combine a lot of elements of financial life. I also bring my faith into my counsel with clients when welcome.  The Bible has a lot of advice on financial management. By infusing my beliefs into my profession, my advice doesn’t change with fads or the political climate. It’s rooted in timeless principles.

What are your beliefs about your profession?

Tax people get a bad rap for being historians.  Financial history is a piece of the overall puzzle, but we need to incorporate the present and future.

I also understand that for most people, money feels like a private topic. It is an honor to be part of a family’s advice team and weigh in on such personal decisions.

What’s the most fun part of your job?

Community, growth, and variety. I get to be a part of people’s lives (business and personal) and help make them better. Every day is a little different too, as no two individuals have the same thing going on.

Do you work with a special market or are you drawn to one?

I tend to work with closely held businesses, especially those in the professional service space – dentists, doctors, attorneys, engineers and consultants. Having been a business owner, I have had to worry about making payroll, sorting out HR issues, developing a market strategy and all of the things our business owner clients deal with day-to-day.

Beyond your work, what are you most passionate about?

I love community organizations and volunteering, whether it’s getting involved myself or learning what you care about and what causes you support. My current priorities are Trinity School of Durham & Chapel Hill (Trustee and Board Treasurer) and Ronald McDonald House of the Triangle (Board Member and Treasurer).

Is there anything in your life personally that has helped motivate you to improve the financial situation of yourself and your clients?

I get business owners’ challenges. I’ve been there. I want to smooth out their ride. And, I get excited about charitable giving. It is a hallmark of my faith and I really enjoy seeing the change it makes in a person when they focus on the needs of others in a sacrificial way.