Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacqueline Holland.
Hi Jacqueline, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My introduction to tax preparation began in high school while working with my mother, who was an immigration attorney. Many of her clients returned to her each year for help with their tax returns. At first, she handled a few herself, but as demand grew she asked me to assist so that her clients could feel confident and supported in both their legal and financial matters.
I started helping on weekends and during summer breaks, and I quickly discovered how rewarding it was to help people understand their taxes and feel secure in their financial standing. By the time I went to college, many of those families had become my own clients. What began as a way to support my mother evolved into a career dedicated to educating, empowering, and serving clients in their financial lives.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Overall, the journey has been incredibly rewarding, but growth always brings new challenges. Many of my clients have been with me for years and continue to refer their family, friends, and colleagues, which has helped my business expand steadily. As my client base grew, I reached a point where working from home was no longer practical. Finding the right professional space was a big step—I wanted a location that reflected the quality of service I provide. After careful planning and budgeting, I secured a brick-and-mortar office in the prestigious CoreBridge campus also known as the AIG building off Allen Parkway.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Business Essentials Tax Service Overview
Business Essentials Tax Service is a Houston-based tax and accounting firm providing strategic tax preparation, planning, and resolution services for more than 20 years. We specialize in helping individuals and small businesses navigate complex tax situations, from routine annual filings to IRS audits, unfiled returns, and tax debt resolution.
What Sets Us Apart
Our hallmark is **personalized, confidential service
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
When I opened my own firm, I thought I needed the perfect business plan and every system in place before taking on clients. The truth is, steady consistency matters far more than perfection. Show up every day for your clients—answer their questions promptly, keep your promises, and stay ahead of deadlines. Trust and reliability are the real cornerstones of a lasting tax practice.
I also wish I had embraced the power of relationships sooner. Don’t try to do everything alone. Build a network of mentors, referral partners, and peers you can call when a tricky IRS situation arises or when you simply need perspective. Your professional community will save you time, stress, and mistakes.
Finally, protect your values and your energy. In the early days I said yes to every client and every request, but learning to qualify clients and set clear boundaries is essential. Know your specialties, stay current on tax law, and price your services to reflect the value you provide. A clear vision of the clients you want to serve—and the work you won’t compromise on—will guide you through growth and help you build a business you’re proud of.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.businessessentialstaxservice.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackie.medinamontenegro
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-medina-holland-085b8b1b/
Image Credits
Photo credit is by Sofia Van Der Dys, photographer
