Our Team

About Us

"Since 1986, our family-owned tax office has specialized in accounting, bookkeeping, tax preparation, and planning for the greater Phoenix area. We’re passionate about helping individuals and small businesses grow and thrive. With over 40 years of experience, we simplify complex financial issues and guide our clients to sound decisions with confidence. Committed to the highest ethical standards, our success is built on a client-first approach, delivered by our team of dedicated professionals."

Karen Lynn, AFSP
President

Providing Accounting and Tax Services for over 30 years, Karen specializes in QuickBooks and is a registered QuickBooks Pro Advisor. As the valued leader of our team, Karen brings a level of expertise and dedication that enhances our client relationships and takes them to new levels of business success and individual tax guidance!

Leslie Olness, CPA
Tax Preparer, Accountant

Hi, I’m Leslie! I joined The Tax Office Inc. in January 2021, bringing with me over 25 years of experience in the public accounting industry. Over the years, I’ve worked in both small CPA offices and large regional CPA firms, which has allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the field. I’ve been a licensed CPA since 1999, and helping clients navigate the complexities of taxes and accounting has always been my passion.

I specialize in business and individual tax preparation and planning, as well as providing accounting services for small to mid-size businesses. I’m dedicated to staying up-to-date on the ever-changing tax laws, ensuring that I can provide the best possible advice to my clients. Tailoring my services to meet their unique goals is what I strive to do every day.

Outside of work, I’m blessed with a loving and supportive husband, and together we have two incredible daughters. One is excelling in nursing school, and the other is a collegiate soccer standout—we couldn’t be more proud of them. I love reading novels, staying active with Pilates, and traveling annually with friends and family. Some of my favorite pastimes include playing Bunco with my besties, savoring my daily morning coffee, and enjoying the little moments that bring happiness to life. Being part of The Tax Office Inc. team has been such a rewarding experience, and I look forward to continuing to serve our community with my expertise and commitment.

Donna Stanley, BSA, MBA
Tax Preparer, Accountant

Donna has a BS in Accounting from the University of Phoenix and MBA in Accounting from Grand Canyon University. She has been working in the accounting industry since 1985 and preparing taxes since 2008. Donna's knowledge, education and experience makes her a valued member of our great team!

Ashley Bates, BSA, MBA, AFSP
Office Manager, Head Accountant

Hi there! I’m Ashley Bates. As the Office Manager and Head Accountant at The Tax Office Inc., I bring over a decade of experience in tax and accounting. My roots run deep here, having grown up in the Arizona desert and being part of The Tax Office Inc. legacy since childhood. As Jim Bates’ granddaughter and Karen (Bates) Lynn’s daughter, I’ve had the privilege of seeing this firm grow and evolve and am proud to contribute to its continued success.

I earned my Bachelor’s in Accounting from the University of Alaska Anchorage while competing as a collegiate volleyball player on a full-ride scholarship, and later pursued my Master’s in Accounting at Grand Canyon University. Over the years, I’ve handled everything from financial statements and payroll to sales tax returns and individual income taxes.

After spending 15+ adventurous years in Alaska, I returned to Arizona in 2023 and rejoined The Tax Office Inc. in 2024, reconnecting with long-time clients while continuing the tradition of personalized, effective service.

When I’m not immersed in numbers, I enjoy an active lifestyle with my boyfriend, splitting time between Arizona and Alaska. We spend much of our free time outdoors—mountain biking, fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying the Arizona sunshine or Alaska’s summer weather. Our dogs, Moose & Maggie, are our little sidekicks and constantly keep us on our toes wherever we land. Staying active and healthy is important to me, and I bring that same balance and discipline into my professional work.

Bryan Smith, AFSP
Accountant, Tax Preparer

Hi, I’m Bryan! Born and raised in the Arizona desert, I’ve always had a knack for numbers and problem-solving. I’ve worked in the tax and accounting field for over 10 years and joined The Tax Office Inc. in 2023. I first got to know Karen through my uncle, who I also worked with in the tax industry, which eventually led me to join The Tax Office. I enjoy the challenge of working with numbers—solving puzzles, uncovering solutions, and helping clients make sense of their finances. At The Tax Office Inc., I handle accounting, payroll, quarterlies, sales tax, and year-end processes, ensuring every detail is managed efficiently. Numbers never lie, and I’ve built my career on using numbers to create clarity and provide meaningful solutions for clients.

Outside of work, I’m a proud hobby gamer and occasionally participate in small gaming tournaments. When the Arizona weather is nice, you can find me outdoors—walking while playing Pokémon Go, riding my bike, or hiking with friends when our schedules align. These activities keep me balanced and give me a chance to recharge.

Being part of The Tax Office Inc. team has been a rewarding experience, and I’m excited to continue helping clients navigate the complexities of taxes with accuracy and care.

Daneen O’Brien
Administrator

Hi, I’m Daneen, but most people know me as “Day.” I hold an Associate of Arts in Healthcare Administration from the University of Phoenix and bring over 10 years of customer service experience to The Tax Office Inc.. My diverse background, which includes a prior work history with the U.S. Armed Forces, has equipped me with a robust and versatile skill set. From handling complex tasks to providing exceptional service, I approach every responsibility with precision and professionalism.

Integrity, aptitude, and tenacity are at the core of who I am, and I strive to bring those qualities to everything I do. As a first-generation college graduate, I’ve worked hard to combine my small-town charm and kindness with global experiences to offer a unique perspective in my work.

I pride myself on being detail-oriented, well-organized, and a natural troubleshooter. Known for my strong communication skills and ability to coordinate effectively, I’m passionate about understanding and meeting the needs of clients, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.

When I’m not at work, I love spending quality time with my husband and two children and serving in my local church. I'm happiest outdoors, enjoying activities like hunting, fishing, and hiking; I also have an uncanny love for cleaning and enjoy "hands-on" tasks.

I’m thrilled to be part of The Tax Office team and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact both in and out of the office.

Amy Foster
Administrator

As one of the newest member of the administrative team, I’m excited for my first tax season! My background in teaching has prepared me well for the fast-paced, dynamic nature of our work. Most recently, I bring five years of customer service and administrative experience, and I look forward to being both a support to the team and a friendly, welcoming presence for our clients.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, which often means traveling to visit my college-aged kids. I truly love living in Arizona and take full advantage of the outdoors through walking, hiking, and biking. Pilates is my favorite workout—I even have a reformer in my living room! When I’m relaxing, you’ll find me watching sports or the occasional HGTV binge. I grew up right here in this Glendale neighborhood, so working in this area feels like coming home. My goal is to make your tax experience as pleasant as possible!

Taylor Olness
Administrator

Hi, I’m Taylor! I’m currently in my last semester at Glendale Community College, where I’m playing soccer and completing my Associate Degree in Nutritional Sciences. This fall, I’ll be attending Arizona Christian University to continue playing soccer and pursue my Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Physiology.

Soccer has always been a big part of my life. It has taught me to work hard, never give up, be open to new ideas, and to stay positive. Outside of school and soccer, I enjoy working out, going on hikes, spending time with family and friends, and I love to travel and explore new places. I’m always looking for new adventures and ways to challenge myself, and I bring that same energy and dedication to everything I do.