About Us
Our Story
At Andrews Accounting, we specialize in small businesses—because that’s where things get messy, fast.
Walk into our office and you’ll probably be greeted by a dog before anything else. There are plants, some funky framed kid art, and a very intentional lack of corporate stiffness. Because if you’re going to talk about taxes and money, it shouldn’t feel like walking into a courtroom.
We work with small business owners at every stage—from getting started to figuring out how to grow without creating bigger problems. Our job is to keep things accurate, compliant, and working in your favor—not just check boxes.What that actually means:
- Tax filings done right and on time
- Financials you can actually understand and use
- Strategies to reduce your tax bill without pushing the line
- Help thinking through hiring, growth, and structure
- Fixing issues before they turn into expensive problems
Some clients want hands-on support. Others just want a trusted advisor to keep an eye on things. Either way, we’re not here to sell you services you don’t need—we’re here to make sure you’re covered.
And honestly, a lot of people find us after something’s gone sideways—bad advice, missed details, or books that don’t match reality. It happens. We don’t make it a big deal—we just fix it and move forward.
If you’re feeling behind, overwhelmed, or not totally confident in your numbers, that’s exactly where we come in.
(And yes—the dog is part of the experience.)
Our Team
Jeri Andrews
Senior Accountant, Advanced QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Hi, I’m Jeri Andrews, owner of Andrews Accounting. I’ve been working with small businesses since 2006, helping owners stay on top of their numbers and make smarter decisions as they grow.
I have a master’s degree in Accounting and Finance and hold certifications as an Advanced QuickBooks ProAdvisor for both QuickBooks Online and Desktop—but what really matters is experience. Over the years, I’ve seen just about everything: messy books, rapid growth, big transitions, and the occasional “how did this even happen?” situation.
One of the biggest shifts I’ve seen is the move to cloud-based accounting. It’s changed the relationship between business owners and their accountant in a good way—more collaboration, more visibility, and quicker answers when something comes up. That’s where I like to be: not just preparing returns, but helping clients think through decisions and stay ahead of problems.
Honestly, the best part of my job is hearing a client say they finally feel relieved—that someone is paying attention, answering questions, and helping things run a little smoother.
Outside of work, I spend as much time as I can with my husband, kids, and six grandchildren. Their artwork has a permanent place in the office, which gives you a pretty good idea of the overall vibe.
Our office at Squalicum Harbor is open, relaxed, and easy to stop by—whether you’re coming in with questions, or just saying hi after a walk on the trail. Over the years, many of my clients have started to feel more like extended family, and I’ve had the privilege of watching not just their businesses grow, but their families too.
Debra Schindler
Accountant, Advanced QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Hello all! My name is Debra Schindler. After raising and homeschooling my four amazing children I decided to pursue my own dreams of being an accountant. I am a number-lover by nature and have found accounting to be a great avenue to immerse myself in math. My wonderful husband has been a great cheerleader as I have juggled school and home life demands. We live in the county on 1 acre with our dog, Cody, and cat, Bella. I have lived in Whatcom County for nearly all my life and have loved exploring the beauty of the area. Our family loves to hunt, camp, hike and have recently discovered a love for kayaking in the area’s beautiful waterways.
In my spare time, I am an avid reader and genealogist. You will often find me in my kitchen baking great desserts or canning from my garden. I love spending time with my kids and their spouses playing board games and having fun laughing as we recite movie quotes.
As part of Jeri’s staff at Andrews Tax Accounting, I have found the great support and enthusiasm, not only from the Andrews team but also from the clientele we have, to be something I can thrive in. At Andrews, I have found an amazing staff dedicated to providing excellent accounting services that go beyond simply balancing books. We want all to succeed and will do whatever we can to help our clients. I am thrilled to add my personality and skills to this remarkable business.
Diedra Ellis
Accountant, QuickBooks ProAdvisor
My name is Diedra Ellis and I am happy to be part of the Andrews Tax Accounting team. After a lengthy career in the e-commerce supply chain, I decided to change gears and pursue my Accounting Degree. After a lot of hard work I graduated from Whatcom Community College in 2019 with my Associates in Accounting. I come from a family of hard-working farmers and I am no exception. I feel blessed to work with such a great team at Andrews Tax Accounting who always strive for excellence and enjoy continually learning from one another.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time at home. I love working in the yard gardening, taking walks, and enjoy spending time with my family. With me in the picture is my “dog brother” Tim. He has been an addition to my family since 2008 and is the most spoiled of my siblings.
Cat LeCocq
Accountant, QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Hello, my name is Catherine LeCocq, and I prefer to go by Cat. I was born and raised in the beautiful PNW. I was raised in a small business and have always had a love for numbers. I decided to put my love of numbers and small businesses together and become and accountant. I graduated from Whatcom Community College with my associates degree in 2022. I am blessed to have one amazing daughter, four cats and three dogs.
Emma Fitzpatrick
Accountant, QuickBooks ProAdvisor
I am Emma Fitzpatrick, and I am very excited to be working at Andrews Accounting. After nearly ten years of working in customer service at various Bellingham businesses, I decided to return to school at Whatcom Community College in 2021. I recently graduated with two associate degrees in accounting and finance and am excited to apply my new knowledge with the guidance of all the wonderful people at Andrews.
When I am not at the office (and it happens to be sunny outside,) I love being out paddleboarding on nearby lakes. I am also an enthusiastic homebody, and spend much of my time drawing portraits, building cute miniature houses, and reading high fantasy novels with my roommate’s cat, Cheddar.
Erik Ibarra
Accountant, QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Hi everyone! My name is Erik Ibarra and here I am with my lovely dog Minnie. She is a 7 year old Pitbull and bullmastiff mix that loves to convince everyone that it’s always time for more treats.
As for me, I am a recent Whatcom Community College graduate, now starting my new and exciting role with Andrews accounting.
I have previously worked as an aerospace quality inspector and anticipate applying my skills to the accuracy and benefit of our client’s books. It’s exciting to think I have an opportunity to learn more from Jeri and the good folks here at Andrews who have all been so helpful. Similarly, I look forward to helping all who come through our doors and being a resource for the community.
As I learn more from the amazingly helpful team at Andrews, I look forward to getting to learn more about you and your tax and accounting needs!
Emily Andrews (Emmy)
Receptionist
I’m the receptionist here at Andrews Tax Accounting. What do I know about figures? Plenty – I figure I’ll be your best friend within two minutes of you coming into our office! My hobbies are asking for pets, getting pets, and reminding you I need to be petted. If you come in anxious, I guarantee I’ll soothe your nerves and make you feel better about taxes and the future of your finances! That is if you pet me. Trust me, it works!
