Jessica L. Tepus
CPA, MTax
About
Expertise
Articles
Testimonials
Jessica is a seasoned tax professional with over 18 years of experience advising high-net-worth individuals, families, and business owners. As a Director in BMF’s Private Client Services practice, she specializes in income tax, estate, and succession planning while developing tailored strategies that align with her clients’ goals and maximize long-term value.
Jessica is recognized for her dedication to client service excellence and building trusted relationships through proactive, year-round planning and personalized guidance. She works closely with clients to anticipate needs, identify opportunities, and deliver solutions that support their evolving financial goals.
In addition to her client work, Jessica is deeply committed to mentoring and developing staff, ensuring the next generation of professionals receives the guidance and opportunities needed to thrive.
Jessica joined BMF in 2010 following her tenure at a major financial institution in Cleveland, where she focused on fiduciary tax services.
Specializations
- Estate & Trust Taxation & Planning
- Individual Taxation & Wealth Preservation
- Gift & Estate Planning
- Charitable Planning & Private Foundations
- Family Office Services
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting, The University of Akron
- Master of Tax, The University of Akron
Certifications
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Professional and Civic Memberships and Activities
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
- Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants
- Cascade Locks Park Association, Treasurer
- Estate Planning Council of Cleveland
- Hudson Community Foundation Professional Advisor Council
- Stan Hywet Professional Advisors Council
- Akron Community Foundation Professional Advisors Council
- Torchbearers Akron, Class 2014
- Torchbearers Akron, Treasurer 2016-2017
- Akron Tax Club
CliftonStrengths
- Harmony
- Adaptability
- Input
- Consistency
- Maximizer
Industry Experience
Construction & Real Estate
Family Owned Business
Manufacturing & Distribution
Nonprofit
IRS Issues Important SECURE Act 2.0 Guidance in Notice 2024-2
On December 20, 2023, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) issued Notice 2024-2 providing guidance, in Q&A format, on 12 specific sections of the SECURE Act 2.0. Per an internal revenue bulletin from the IRS, the notice is not intended. Read More >>
Is Your Passion a Hobby or a Business?
Have you ever thought about turning your hobby into a business? It’s a great idea, but there are some important things you need to know, especially when it comes to your taxes. The IRS has rules to determine whether. Read More >>
IRS Updates Late Portability Election Procedures
Under federal estate and gift taxes rules, a portability election allows a decedent’s unused estate tax exemption amount (deceased spousal unused exclusion amount, or DSUE amount) to be available to their surviving spouse. Background The federal estate tax exclusion. Read More >>
Jessica has provided great guidance, and quick responses.
April, 21
I have a strong confidence in and our working relationship with Jessica.
May, 21
My wife and I have had a very good experience working with Jessica on Tax and Estate Planning matters. She is knowledgeable, thorough, organized and pleasant to work with.
June, 21