My name is Shay James.

I am a Certified Public Accountant and Enrolled Agent living and practicing virtually, with clients across the United States. Right now, my home is in Bellingham, WA. While most of my clients are local, technology has reduced the barriers of geography and I am able to serve clients in any location.

My goal is simple: to develop relationships with clients I care about so we can work as a team to create breathing room or "white space" around the subject of finances. Whether you need help with your income taxes, want to develop a financial plan to get out of debt or build wealth, or are searching for elegant accounting solutions for your business, I will get to know your individual situation to help you win.

I am a solo practitioner. When you work with me, you work with me alone. I answer my emails, return phone calls, and don't outsource your work to anybody else. 

What I do when I'm not accounting:

I have been married to my husband, Justin, for almost sixteen years. We are parents to two children, two dogs, and two cats. Our family was created through adoption and we are advocates for a more child-friendly foster care system. 

Running a household, finding the time to stay healthy and active, and having quality family relationships takes up most of my non-working time at this point in my life. I'm an avid cook, reader, and list maker. 

Credentials and Education:

Certified Public Accountant in the states of Washington, Nevada, and California

Enrolled Agent permitted to practice before the Internal Revenue Service

Accredited Financial Counselor, AFCPE

Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

YNAB Certified Budgeting Coach*

Masters of Science in Accountancy, San Jose State University, 2011

Bachelors of Arts in English Literature, Cal Poly State University, 2000

*I am a YNAB Certified Budgeting Coach, which means that I have been trained to coach people on using YNAB software and the YNAB budgeting method. I have met select requirements of You Need a Budget LLC in order to receive this certification, which means that I have the ability to competently coach YNAB to others. I am not an employee of YNAB, and all non-YNAB related opinions and recommendations are my own. My views do not reflect the views of YNAB and its employees or its affiliates.