Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # LLME Certified Public Accountants ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://llme.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Senior Tax Manager Rudy Mercado Named a 40 Under 40 Finalist by San Diego Business Journal](https://llme.com/senior-tax-manager-rudy-mercado-named-a-40-under-40-finalist-by-san-diego-business-journal/) - [A More Consistent Look for LLME](https://llme.com/a-more-consistent-look-for-llme/) - [LLME Supports Hands-On Learning Through Spring Internship Program](https://llme.com/llme-supports-hands-on-learning-through-spring-internship-program/) - [Larisa Kalugina Joins LLME as Tax Manager](https://llme.com/larisa-kalugina-joins-llme-as-tax-manager/) - [LLME Welcomes Adam Lemberger as Senior Tax Manager](https://llme.com/llme-welcomes-adam-lemberger-as-senior-tax-manager/) - LLME is pleased to announce that Adam Lemberger has joined the firm as a senior tax manager. Adam brings 13 years of public accounting experience, providing tax compliance and consulting services to privately held businesses and their owners. His work focuses on partnerships and other pass-through entities, as well as high-net-worth individuals, with experience spanning - [Leadership in Focus: Bryan Martinez on LLME’S Culture, Tech and Next Generation](https://llme.com/leadership-in-focus-bryan-martinez-on-llmes-culture-tech-and-next-generation/) - Every career has a story behind it, and at LLME, those stories are what bring our firm to life. The experiences our people carry with them — in and out the office — shape how we work, how we lead and how we serve our clients. For Bryan Martinez, his personal milestones have had a - [What Fashion Taught Me About Finance: A Conversation with LLME Accounting Services Specialist Dana Mekler](https://llme.com/what-fashion-taught-me-about-finance-a-conversation-with-llme-accounting-services-specialist-dana-mekler/) - [LLME Featured in San Diego Business Journal’s Accounting Special Report](https://llme.com/llme-featured-in-san-diego-business-journals-accounting-special-report/) - As the preparation of 2018 tax returns begins, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 is now being applied for the first time. In a recent edition of the San Diego Business Journal, in an article that overviews the Act, LLME partner Michele Barrow led off the article by stating the new federal tax - [Michele Barrow and Jennifer Glaser Elected LLME Partners](https://llme.com/michele-barrow-and-jennifer-glaser-elected-llme-partners/) - SAN DIEGO, CA – Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg, LLP is proud to announce the admittance of Michele Barrow, CPA and Jennifer Glaser, CPA to the partnership. Barrow has been with the firm since 2006 and has more than 17 years of experience providing tax compliance and planning services to corporations, partnerships, individuals and trusts. - [Dale Snead and Brian Suratt Join LLME as Partners](https://llme.com/dale-snead-and-brian-suratt-join-llme-as-partners/) - Local accounting firms merge with LLME SAN DIEGO, CA – Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg, LLP announces that Dale Snead and Brian Surratt have joined the firm as partners. Snead specializes in providing quality, personalized financial guidance to local individuals and businesses. His expertise ranges from tax and accounting services to audits and financial statements. - [Abbey Henne Named Among San Diego's Top 40 Under 40](https://llme.com/abbey-henne-named-among-san-diegos-top-40-under-40/) - Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg (LLME) is proud to announce that one of our tax partners, Abbey Henne, has been named a 2019 Top “40 Under 40” by The Daily Transcript. The publication’s honorees represent some of the best and brightest young professionals in San Diego County and together are making an impressive impact in the community. - [Jennifer Glaser Named Among San Diego’s Women of Influence](https://llme.com/jennifer-glaser-named-among-san-diegos-women-of-influence/) - Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg (LLME) is proud to announce that Jennifer Glaser, a tax partner with the firm, has been named a “Woman of Influence” by San Diego Metro Magazine. Jennifer was selected for the lasting contributions she has made to her profession and the San Diego community. Jennifer started her career at LLME - [Scott Jablow Talks Real Estate Taxes on KCBQ 1170 AM Radio](https://llme.com/scott-jablow-talks-real-estate-taxes-on-kcbq-1170-am-radio/) - Tax partner Scott Jablow was recently a guest on Whissel Weekends, a weekly program on radio station The Answer San Diego devoted to real estate topics. Scott, whose practice centers on real estate tax matters, discussed the impact of the 2018 tax reform legislation on homeowners and investors. He noted that while there was an - [Victor Shlionsky Joins LLME as Tax Director](https://llme.com/victor-shlionsky-joins-llme-as-tax-director/) - We're pleased to announce that Victor Shlionsky has joined the firm as a tax director. Victor has more than 12 years of experience providing income and estate tax planning services to high net worth individuals and closely held business. He specializes in guiding clients through their estate, charitable, cash flow and business succession needs. He - [LLME Adds Two Tax Managers](https://llme.com/llme-adds-two-tax-managers/) - LLME proudly announces the promotions of Chelsea Castillo and Kristi Norg to tax managers. Chelsea has been with the firm since 2014 and has experience in a variety of tax areas, including matters involving closely held companies, pass-through entities and high net worth individuals. Chelsea is also an active volunteer with The Preuss School, serving - [Scott Jablow Named Among San Diego’s Men of Influence](https://llme.com/scott-jablow-named-among-san-diegos-men-of-influence/) - Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg (LLME) is proud to announce that Scott Jablow, a tax partner with the firm, was recently named as one of the San Diego Men of Influence by San Diego Metro Magazine. Scott holds more than 25 years of experience assisting clients with their tax compliance and planning needs. His wide - [LLME Tax Managers Attend Hawaii Tax Institute](https://llme.com/llme-tax-managers-attend-hawaii-tax-institute/) - Tax managers Erin Carlson and Kristi Norg attended the Hawaii Tax Institute, one of the nation’s premier tax and wealth transfer conferences, in November 2019. Among the major takeaways: The importance of using the current high lifetime exemption amounts for gifting and utilizing methods of gifting which alleviate common donor concerns Updates on current audit - [Andy Nguyen Joins LLME as Tax Manager](https://llme.com/andy-nguyen-joins-llme-as-tax-manager/) - We're pleased to announce that Andy Nguyen has joined the firm as a tax manager. Andy is a CPA with seven years of experience providing accounting services to closely held small to medium-sized businesses in the professional services and technology fields. He specializes in working with business owners in multi-state taxation, tax planning and the - [COVID-19 & CARES ACT PRESENTATIONS](https://llme.com/covid-19-cares-act-presentations/) - Cares Act - Welcome and Economic Overview CARES Act - Individual Provisions CARES Act - Business Provisions CARES Act - Business Loans & Other Relief Opportunities This communication is intended to provide general information on legislative COVID-19 relief measures as of the date of this communication and may reference information from reputable sources. Although - [LLME Tax Manager Costars in Estate Planning at the Movies](https://llme.com/llme-tax-manager-costars-in-estate-planning-at-the-movies/) - Kristi Norg, LLME tax manager, contributed examples of complex estate tax returns to Estate Planning at the Movies: The Art of the Estate Tax Return, a 2019 textbook written by noted tax and estate attorney Keith Schiller, Esq. In the book, Schiller acknowledges Kristi and refers to his work on several complex estate returns with - [James Vinograd Joins LLME as Client Accounting Services Manager](https://llme.com/james-vinograd-joins-llme-as-client-accounting-services-manager/) - We're pleased to announce that James Vinograd has joined the firm as a client accounting services manager. James is a CPA with 20 years of experience providing accounting services to closely held small- to medium-sized businesses in a wide variety of industries. He specializes in working with business owners in financial statement preparation and accounting - [LLME Adds Two Managers](https://llme.com/llme-adds-two-managers/) - LLME proudly announces the promotions of Tracy Pham to the position of tax manager and Adam Kemp to audit manager. Tracy has been with LLME since 2015 and has experience providing a wide range of accounting and tax services to small business owners, partnerships, LLCs, S corporations and high-net-worth individuals. She is active on the - [LLME's 2020-2021 Tax Planning Guide Now Available](https://llme.com/llmes-2020-2021-tax-planning-guide-now-available/) - 2020 has been a challenging year for all of us. With individuals and businesses coping with the COVID-19 pandemic and some new tax laws going into effect, you may have questions about how your taxes will be impacted. The end of the year is an ideal time to review your tax situation and evaluate planning - [Just in Time for the New Year: COVID-19-Related Relief](https://llme.com/just-in-time-for-the-new-year-covid-19-related-relief/) - On December 27, President Trump signed into law the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (CAA), which provides pandemic relief, as well as other tax and health-related provisions. The massive 5,500-plus page bill also contains other laws within it, including the COVID-Related Tax Relief Act of 2020 (COVIDTRA). Highlights of the bill include: Direct payments to certain - [COVID-19 Relief: Overview of the New American Rescue Plan Act](https://llme.com/covid-19-relief-overview-of-the-new-american-rescue-plan-act/) - The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was signed into law on March 11, 2021. The new law will provide roughly $1.9 trillion in financial support to individuals, businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and state and local governments during the pandemic. Here are some of the key ARPA provisions that will affect federal income taxes for some people - [Michele Barrow Named Among San Diego’s Women of Influence](https://llme.com/michele-barrow-named-among-san-diegos-women-of-influence/) - Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg (LLME) is proud to announce that Michele Barrow, a tax partner with the firm, was recently named as one of San Diego’s Women of Influence by San Diego Metro Magazine. During the pandemic, with tax laws and deadlines evolving in a climate of economic uncertainty, Michele led her team and - [New California Law Offers Workaround for State and Local Tax Deductions](https://llme.com/new-california-law-offers-workaround-for-state-and-local-tax-deductions/) - California Assembly Bill 150 (AB 150) allows a pathway for pass-through entity owners to work around the $10,000 cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions imposed by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. AB 150’s workaround, effective for tax years starting on or after January 1, 2021, is an election available to qualifying - [Remote Hiring - Looking Farther Afield to Expand the Talent Base](https://llme.com/remote-hiring-looking-farther-afield-to-expand-the-talent-base/) - By Andy Nguyen, CPA It’s an understatement to say that the job market has changed because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While some industries have seen their demand plummet and customer base shrink compared to pre-pandemic times, others have had the exact opposite issue. The adoption of remote work across the country was previously something - [LLME Promotes Three to Manager](https://llme.com/promotes-three-to-manager/) - LLME announces the promotions of Rodolfo (Rudy) Mercado, Jr. and Remington Mosey to the position of tax manager and Amanda Tazbaz to audit manager. Rudy has been with the firm since 2016 and has experience providing a wide range of accounting and tax services to S corporations, partnerships and high-net-worth individuals. He is a member - [LLME Promotes Jeff Ewan to Tax Partner](https://llme.com/llme-promotes-jeff-ewan-to-tax-partner/) - The accounting firm Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg, LLP is proud to announce that Jeff Ewan has been promoted to partner. Jeff has extensive experience providing tax services to individuals and a wide range of closely-held businesses, including multistate entities. He has been with the firm since 2009. “We are excited to welcome Jeff to - [New California Law Expands Benefits for State and Local Tax Deductions](https://llme.com/new-california-law-expands-benefits-for-state-and-local-tax-deductions/) - California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a new law, SB 113, enhancing tax benefits to qualifying pass-through entities (PTEs). The new law builds on the tax benefits made available in July 2021 through AB 150. The original AB 150 law allowed a pathway for PTE owners to work around the $10,000 cap on state and - [IRS increases mileage rate for remainder of 2022](https://llme.com/irs-increases-mileage-rate-for-remainder-of-2022/) - In recognition of recent gasoline price increases, the IRS has increased the standard mileage rate for the final 6 months of 2022. The standard mileage rate for business travel will be 62.5 cents per mile, up 4 cents from the rate effective at the start of the year. The new rate for deductible medical or - [LLME Promotes Two to Manager](https://llme.com/llme-promotes-two-to-manager/) - Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg, LLP announces the promotions of Daniel Hill to Audit Manager and Lacy Pollack to Tax Manager. Daniel has been with LLME since 2019 providing accounting, auditing and other assurance services to a wide array of clients, including real estate, investment funds, broker-dealers, franchisors, retailers, wholesalers, non-profit organizations and employee benefit - [New Rules for EV Tax Credits under the IRA](https://llme.com/new-rules-for-ev-tax-credits-under-the-ira/) - You've probably heard that the newly enacted Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) includes a package of measures to fight climate change, including tax incentives for both consumers and businesses. Among other things, the law extends and revises a tax credit for buying a "clean vehicle" through 2032. This was previously referred to as the - [How Will Inflation Affect Your 2023 Tax Bill?](https://llme.com/how-will-inflation-affect-your-2023-tax-bill/) - Inflation has been surging this year. The July 2022 consumer price index (CPI) was up 8.5% year over year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The rate of inflation is expected to stay high for at least the rest of the year. Many taxpayers are understandably concerned about how - [Tax Deadlines Extended by IRS](https://llme.com/tax-deadlines-extended-by-irs/) - The IRS has issued a disaster relief notice for the state of California relating to the severe winter storms, flooding, and landslides that began on January 9, 2023. California storm victims now have until May 15, 2023 to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. Note: To date, California has - [Q&A with Senior Audit Manager Justin Betyar](https://llme.com/qa-with-llmes-senior-audit-manager-justin-betyar/) - Senior Audit Manager Justin Betyar has been with LLME for 12 years, joining the firm after graduating from San Diego State University with a Master’s in Accounting following an early career in sales. A college athlete and avid fantasy sports team participant, Justin discovered a surprising benefit to working at LLME. Curious? Read on. How - [Tax Deadline Extended Again](https://llme.com/tax-deadline-extended-again/) - The IRS and California's Franchise Tax Board have issued updated disaster relief notices for the state of California relating to the severe winter storms, flooding, and landslides. California Taxpayers in specified counties, including San Diego, now have until October 16, 2023 to file various federal and California individual and business tax returns and make tax - [Celebrating the End of Busy Season at Rancho Bernardo Inn](https://llme.com/celebrating-the-end-of-busy-season-at-rancho-bernardo-inn/) - At LLME, we believe in recognizing hard work and showing appreciation to our exceptional team. For the past 18 years, our firm has held a cherished tradition of taking a day off after the spring busy season to unwind. This year was no exception. Our dedicated employees enjoyed a well-deserved break to rest, recharge and - [IRS Announcement](https://llme.com/irs-announcement/) - The IRS reassures California taxpayers that they continue to have an automatic extension until later this year to file and pay their taxes for those covered by disaster declarations in the state. The current mailings being received by some taxpayers, the IRS Notice CP14, are for taxpayers who have a balance due, and they are - [Q&A with Tax Partner Erin Carlson](https://llme.com/qa-tax-partner-erin-carlson/) - Erin Carlson, a tax partner at LLME, specializes in helping individuals, families and business entities navigate the complexities of estate and gift tax planning. Erin received her bachelor’s degree in economics before earning a law degree from Pepperdine University and Master of Laws at Boston University. She joined LLME in 2019 and expertly ensures clients - [Mid-Year Tax Planning for Small Business Owners](https://llme.com/mid-year-tax-planning-for-small-business-owners/) - Summer isn't just for barbeques and baseball. It's also a good time to think about ways to cut your 2023 business tax bill. Here are four planning ideas for small business owners to consider, assuming there won't be any changes to current federal tax laws at least through 2024. 1. Establish a Tax-Favored Retirement Plan - [LLME Summer Internship Program Draws Talent from Across the West](https://llme.com/llme-summer-internship-program-draws-talent-from-across-the-west/) - At LLME, we recognize the crucial role internships play in nurturing up-and-coming leaders in accounting and taxation. That's why we're thrilled to welcome six summer interns from across Southern California, Colorado and Texas, offering them the invaluable opportunity to gain firsthand experience in the field. Under the guidance of LLME’s Tax Partner Jennifer Glaser and - [Creating Memorable Team Experiences at the Races](https://llme.com/creating-memorable-team-experiences-at-the-races/) - When it comes to celebrating our team and its accomplishments, LLME takes full advantage of San Diego’s best-in-class weather, amenities and offerings. Our latest outing saw the LLME team venture to the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club for a memorable trackside day where the turf meets the surf. The races offered our team a unique blend - [LLME’s 2023-2024 Tax Planning Guide Now Available](https://llme.com/llmes-2023-2024-tax-planning-guide-now-available/) - In 2023, tax laws have continued to change and affect individuals and businesses in different and potentially unexpected ways. Our new tax guide provides thorough information about these changes. Our 2023-2024 tax planning guide offers tips on: Tax Planning Basics Investing Real Estate Family and Education Business and Executive Compensation Charitable Giving Retirement Estate Planning We - [A Conversation with Client Accounting Services Manager James Vinograd](https://llme.com/a-conversation-with-client-accounting-services-manager-james-vinograd/) - James Vinograd, CPA, the client accounting services manager at LLME, brings a wealth of accounting, advisory, tax and auditing knowledge to clients across several industries. We caught up with James to talk all things life and accounting. Here’s what he has to say about his path to LLME and the importance of knowing the ins - [LLME Promotes Philip Ventura to Tax Manager](https://llme.com/llme-promotes-philip-ventura-to-tax-manager/) - Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg, LLP is pleased to announce that Philip Ventura was promoted to tax manager. Phil is a CPA with nearly 10 years of experience providing income tax-related services to a wide variety of clients, such as high-net worth individuals, passthrough entities, nonprofits and associations, and entities with international activity. Phil joined - [Reflecting on a Year of Progress at LLME’s Annual Holiday Celebration](https://llme.com/reflecting-on-a-year-of-progress-at-llmes-annual-holiday-celebration/) - Before officially turning the calendar on 2023, LLME gathered at Green Acre Campus Point for a night of glitzy, Las Vegas-inspired merriment to celebrate a year of achievements, growth and unwavering support from our incredible team and clients. As we gathered to share the joys of the holiday season, we were once again reminded that - [Building Community Connections: LLME’s Impactful Service in 2023](https://llme.com/building-community-connections-llmes-impactful-service-in-2023/) - We’re proud to call San Diego home and embrace community partnerships with a strong sense of responsibility. At the heart of LLME is a commitment to inspire our team to be compassionate citizens who actively contribute to the well-being of our local communities. Giving back to the communities in which we live, work and play - [LLME Elects Brian Surratt as Managing Partner](https://llme.com/llme-elects-brian-surratt-as-managing-partner/) - Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg, LLP is proud to announce that Brian Surratt has been elected as managing partner of the firm. Brian, a leader in tax and accounting, assumed the leadership role on Jan. 1, 2024. "Brian's business acumen and expertise in working with small businesses were crucial to our firm's ability to successfully - [LLME Elevates Erin Carlson to Tax Partner](https://llme.com/llme-elevates-erin-carlson-to-tax-partner/) - LLME is pleased to announce that Erin Carlson was elevated to tax partner effective Jan. 1, 2024. As the head of the firm's trust and estate group, Erin guides high-net-worth individuals through both life and posthumous planning. She assists individuals, families and business entities, particularly those with substantial real estate assets, in navigating the complexities - [LLME Elevates Victor Shlionsky to Tax Partner](https://llme.com/llme-elevates-victor-shlionsky-to-tax-partner/) - LLME is please to announce that Victor Shlionsky was elevated to tax partner effective Jan. 1, 2024. Victor is a seasoned tax professional with more than 16 years of experience providing strategic financial guidance to high net-worth individuals and closely held businesses. He specializes in assisting clients with their estate, charitable, cash flow and business - [Erin Carlson Recognized Among San Diego’s Influential Women in Accounting & Finance](https://llme.com/erin-carlson-recognized-among-san-diegos-influential-women/) - Congratulations to LLME Tax Partner Erin Carlson on being named one of San Diego’s Influential Women in Accounting & Finance by the San Diego Business Journal. Erin continues to inspire us all with her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication to excellence and the contributions she makes to our team, clients and industry. As head of the - [Tax Partner Victor Shlionsky Shares Tax Insights](https://llme.com/victor-shlionsky-shares-tax-insights/) - Victor Shlionsky, Tax Partner at LLME, has a wealth of knowledge and proven track record of providing comprehensive income and estate tax planning services to high net-worth individuals and closely held businesses. We sat down with Victor to talk shop and learn about his career, passion for serving the local community and what drew him - [San Diego County Tax Relief Update](https://llme.com/san-diego-county-tax-relief-update/) - The IRS and California’s Franchise Tax Board have issued a disaster relief notice for San Diego County in response to the severe storms and flooding that began on January 21, 2024. Individuals and households that reside or have a business in San Diego County now have until June 17, 2024, to file various federal and - [Ron Trinh Joins LLME as Tax Manager](https://llme.com/ron-trinh-joins-llme-as-tax-manager/) - LLME is pleased to announce that Ron Trinh has joined the firm as a tax manager. Ron is a CPA with nearly 10 years of experience providing taxation services to individuals and businesses in the real estate industry, including developers, syndicators, investors and more. Prior to joining LLME, Ron served as a tax consultant for - [Victor Shlionsky Named One of San Diego’s 40 Under 40](https://llme.com/victor-shlionsky-named-one-of-san-diegos-40-under-40/) - Congratulations to LLME’s Victor Shlionsky on being named one of San Diego's 40 Under 40 by SD Metro Magazine. A newly promoted tax partner, Victor has consistently shown excellence and leadership in the field of tax planning and advisory. Victor has over 16 years of experience providing high-net-worth individuals and closely held businesses with strategic - [Celebrating Another Successful Tax Season at Rancho Bernardo Inn](https://llme.com/celebrating-another-successful-tax-season-at-rancho-bernardo-inn/) - At LLME, we believe in acknowledging the hard work and dedication of our team. This year marked our 19th annual post-tax season celebration at Rancho Bernardo Inn, a tradition we look forward to every spring. The day was packed with activities designed to help our team relax and recharge. Many took advantage of the resort's - [LLME Welcomes New Summer Interns for Real-World Experience in Accounting and Taxation](https://llme.com/llme-welcomes-new-summer-interns-for-real-world-experience-in-accounting-and-taxation/) - LLME is excited to welcome our new summer interns, including both students and recent graduates from universities across Southern California and Tennessee. These individuals are pursuing or have recently completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting and taxation and are here to gain real-world experience under the mentorship of LLME’s seasoned professionals. The program kicks - [Bryan Martinez Rejoins LLME](https://llme.com/bryan-martinez-rejoins-llme/) - LLME is thrilled to announce the return of Bryan Martinez to the firm as director of tax administration. Bryan, a CPA with more than 15 years of experience, originally joined LLME as a tax manager in 2015 and was later promoted to senior tax manager in 2020. He was responsible for managing a diverse portfolio - [LLME Named One of San Diego’s Best Places to Work](https://llme.com/llme-named-one-of-san-diegos-best-places-to-work/) - The San Diego Business Journal has affirmed what Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg employees have been saying for years: “LLME is one of San Diego’s Best Places to Work!” Now that it’s officially on the record, please join us in celebrating our incredible team. To each member of the LLME team: this recognition belongs to - [LLME Elevates Justin Betyar to Audit Partner](https://llme.com/llme-elevates-justin-betyar-to-audit-partner/) - LLME is thrilled to announce the elevation of Justin Betyar to audit partner. The trusted adviser known for his technical expertise and client-focused approach stepped into the new role on Jan. 1. "Justin’s promotion to audit partner highlights his 14-plus years of exceptional leadership, service and countless contributions to our firm and clients,” said LLME’s - [LLME’s 2024-2025 Tax Planning Guide Now Available](https://llme.com/llmes-2024-2025-tax-planning-guide-now-available/) - As we move into 2025, staying on top of changes in tax law can help you make informed decisions for minimizing your taxes. LLME’s Tax Planning Guide offers a wide variety of strategies to help you reduce your tax burden while keeping in compliance with the law. Here’s what’s covered: Tax Planning Basics Investing Real - [LLME Promotes Alex Austin, Sean Nelson and Vanessa Reyes to Tax Managers](https://llme.com/llme-promotes-alex-austin-sean-nelson-and-vanessa-reyes-to-tax-managers/) - LLME is pleased to announce the promotions of Alex Austin, Sean Nelson and Vanessa Reyes to the position of tax manager. Alex joined the firm in January 2023 and specializes in trust and estate taxation. With eight years of public accounting experience, Alex prepares and reviews complex tax returns for high-net-worth individuals, families and - [Justin Betyar Named a Man of Influence in San Diego’s Business Community](https://llme.com/justin-betyar-named-a-man-of-influence-in-san-diegos-business-community/) - Audit partner. Trusted advisor. Ambassador of fun. Fantasy Sports Commissioner. BBQ enthusiast. The titles Justin Betyar wears are plentiful, and now, thanks to SD Metro, he’s added another: Man of Influence. The San Diego business publication has recognized what we here at LLME have known all along: Justin is an inspirational leader using his energy - [Brian Surratt Named to Forbes' 2025 Best-In-State CPAs List](https://llme.com/brian-surratt-named-to-forbes-2025-best-in-state-cpas-list/) - We're proud to share some big news: LLME's Managing Partner, Brian Surratt, has been named to Forbes' 2025 Best-In-State CPAs list. Out of more than 100,000 licensed CPAs in California, Brian is one of just four professionals from San Diego to earn this prestigious distinction. This recognition doesn't come as a surprise to anyone who's - [From Biology to Business Tax, Sean Nelson Found His Fit in Tax Consulting](https://llme.com/from-biology-to-business-tax-sean-nelson-found-his-fit-in-tax-consulting/) - Sean Nelson didn’t always envision a career in tax consulting. Like many on the Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg, LLP team, he found his way to accounting by happenstance and went all in — Sean is now a tax manager and trusted advisor for industry-leading companies, startups, investors and individuals. Originally from Torrance, Sean stayed - [A Decade of Scholarship Support: LLME’s Ongoing Commitment to Students](https://llme.com/a-decade-of-scholarship-support-llmes-ongoing-commitment-to-students/) - At LLME, we believe the future of accounting starts with investing in the next generation. For more than a decade, we’ve awarded scholarships to students pursuing careers in accounting and taxation, recognizing both academic achievement and the dedication required to enter the profession. This year, we awarded scholarships to students at both the University of - [Highlights of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act](https://llme.com/highlights-of-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act/) - On July 4, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law which included significant changes to our tax laws. We are reaching out to highlight some key provisions which may affect your tax situation. You can view a more comprehensive guide to the new tax provisions here. Key Highlights - Businesses Qualified - [Real Estate Tax, Remote Work, and River Trips: A Look Inside Vanessa Reyes’ World](https://llme.com/real-estate-tax-remote-work-and-river-trips-a-look-inside-vanessa-reyes-world/) - From tax intern to tax manager and trusted advisor, Vanessa Reyes has built a thriving career at LLME rooted in a genuine love for what she does and the clients she serves. With over a decade of experience in public accounting, Vanessa now manages a diverse portfolio of clients, including high-net-worth individuals and real estate - [Celebrating Two Years as One of San Diego’s Best Places to Work](https://llme.com/celebrating-two-years-as-one-of-san-diegos-best-places-to-work/) - For the second year in a row, Lavine, Lofgren, Morris & Engelberg has been named one of San Diego’s Best Places to Work by the San Diego Business Journal. This honor reflects the culture we’ve built here at LLME — one where careers grow, collaboration thrives, and people feel supported both professionally and personally. It’s - [From the Other Side of the Table: Daniel Hill’s Leap from LLME Audit Client to Manager](https://llme.com/from-the-other-side-of-the-table-daniel-hills-leap-from-llme-audit-client-to-manager/) - Daniel Hill first encountered LLME from the other side of the table. Early in his energy-sector career, his company — a San Diego-based data management provider for energy service providers — partnered with LLME. From the onset, he was impressed by the LLME team and their technical expertise, but it was their approachable, clear way of navigating - [LLME’s 2025-2026 Tax Planning Guide Now Available](https://llme.com/llmes-2025-2026-tax-planning-guide-now-available/) - As we move into 2026, significant changes from the new One Big Beautiful Bill Act are taking effect — making proactive planning more important than ever. Staying informed now can help you make smart decisions to minimize your tax liability in the year ahead. LLME’s Tax Planning Guide highlights these updates and offers practical strategies - [LLME Promotes Kaitlyn Prideaux to Audit Manager](https://llme.com/llme-promotes-kaitlyn-prideaux-to-audit-manager/) - LLME is thrilled to announce that Kaitlyn Prideaux has been promoted to audit manager. Kaitlyn joined the firm in 2018 as a staff auditor and has spent her entire public accounting career with LLME. Over the past eight years, she has developed extensive experience providing audit, review and compilation services to nonprofit organizations and private ## Pages - [Home](https://llme.com/) - [Career Opportunities](https://llme.com/career-opportunities/) - [About Us](https://llme.com/about-us/) - [Campus Recruiting](https://llme.com/campus-recruiting/) - [Life @ LLME](https://llme.com/life-at-llme/) - Life@LLME is more than our Instagram handle - it embodies our firm culture. 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