The MB Group

Janet Haston leads The MB Group (MBG), a woman owned certified public accounting firm in Plano, Texas. Janet has over 25 years of experience in income tax preparation and income tax planning. Her firm is a leader in providing a flexible working environment for the thirty-two people working at the firm.

The MBG received the award for Best Workplaces from Inc. Magazine in 2022. This culture has allowed Janet to have a staff dedicated to staying updated on the latest developments in tax regulations, economic trends, and accounting practices. The MB Group is a dependable business ally who can provide convenient assistance in accomplishing essential tasks. The firm is set up to meet the individual needs of their clients whether they be businesses, high net worth individuals, or professionals. The diligence and proactivity impacts their clients by enhancing the professionalism of the finance function within their organization.

MBG believes that every business’s financial situation is distinct. As an advisor, and advocate, MBG’s structure is comprised of three divisions: accounting, tax, and tax advisory services. The accounting side maintains the highest standard in reporting financial data to its clients. In addition, it coordinates with the tax department to provide a smooth transition of the information to the tax department to manage compliance issues and tax return preparation while focusing on business and tax planning strategies. The tax advisory services unit operates without compliance constraints. This freedom allows them to take advantage of tax planning opportunities that arise during the year that other firms cannot address due to their limitation of completing tax returns and reporting on the past. The company has established a “tax think tank,” where it brings together collaborative CPAs and tax attorneys nationwide, ensuring that it can tap into specialized expertise when needed. Catering to mid-market business clients, MBG does not limit itself to a specific industry but finds prevalence in the service sector, including attorneys and doctors. Over time, it has honed its expertise in response to clients’ evolving needs, prioritizing these services to ensure its clients’ needs are met in the most efficient manner.

Charles Hart leads the tax advisory group. He has over 45 years’ experience with a unique blend of expertise in financial planning and tax planning, holding CPA, PFS, CFP, AIF and CKA designations. He also is a Kolbe Certified consultant and founding member of the Cialdini Institute.This dual background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of the financial world, empowering him to maximize clients’ financial potential while minimizing tax liabilities.

The tax advisory group is active throughout the year in formulating strategies for their clients and navigating the nuances of diverse industry hurdles. This collaborative approach has yielded positive results for their clients, reinforcing the value of MBG’s advisory services.

The impending sunsetting of estate tax laws will take effect on December 31st, 2025. This is relevant for businesses and high net worth clients. Currently, MBG is engaged with numerous clients, strategizing on optimal methods for transferring their wealth across generations with a focus on tax efficiency and preserving family harmony. The ultimate objective is to facilitate the seamless transfer of family wealth while mitigating the potential negative impact on succeeding generations.

Unlike transaction-oriented CPA firms, MBG adopts a proactive approach, building enduring relationships based on trust, transparency, and a profound understanding of clients’ financial and philanthropic goals. This extends to personal aspirations, creating a legacy that aligns with their family’s values. Its strength lies in bridging the gap between family and business ownership, assisting in the smooth transition of wealth from one generation to the next.

MBG stands out not just for being woman-owned but for its impressive team of thirty-two women accountants, who work together. This combination of expertise enhances the service options the company provides to clients. Also, MBG has forged alliances, including one with an international tax expert. This allows it to seamlessly coordinate with advisors on domestic and international fronts, offering a comprehensive service for businesses as well as for individuals.

With a versatile arsenal of skills and provisions, MBG consistently excels in converting financial chaos into an efficient accounting framework. By offering strategic planning, reliable reporting, and expert connections, MBG continues to empower businesses for optimal growth and decision-making.

Janet and Charles are currently co-authoring a book to help women understand their finances.

The book is A Woman’s Guide to Financial Preparedness.