Sharon Rubens, CPA
Partner
Who I work with
I primarily work with closely held businesses and high-net-worth family groups, with a passion for educating multigenerational families and their children about finances. I explain concepts in non-technical language, and if I have a white board handy, I even sketch out scenarios and details to complement explanations. I often say I play the role of “financial therapist” for my clients because I become part of their extended family.
My specialty
I specialize in providing tax planning expertise and strategies to optimize family wealth and help families achieve their short- and long-term goals. I also have deep experience providing trust and estate tax planning, as well as assisting clients with navigating succession planning and potential M&A opportunities.
Results I have delivered
I have provided tailored gifting solutions to help families better plan and distribute inheritances among their children and other heirs. What’s more, I have also helped clients save millions in estate taxes through sophisticated wealth transfer planning.
Unique things about me
My “claim to fame” is that in 1985, I scored in the top 100 in the US on the CPA exam and earned the Elijah Watt Sells Award.
When I am not at work
Travel is my passion and I have been to all seven continents! Between my travels, I also enjoy relaxing at Lake Tahoe, hiking in the summer (with my dog, Bandit) and skiing in the winter.
People say I am
A creative, committed and trusted business advisor.
Affiliations
I graduated magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Washington, where I earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.A.). I am also a member of the Women Presidents Organization, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the California Society of CPAs. For fun, I’m also a member of the Walnut Creek Pickleball Club.