Debra W. Johnson, EA, CPA

About Our Founder

Debra W. Johnson, EA, CPA

Debra has been an Enrolled Agent, a tax specialist licensed to practice before the IRS, since 1981. She has been a Certified Public Accountant since 1999. Debra is one of a select few in the Metro Atlanta area that is accredited as both an accounting and tax specialist.

Debra's special interests include the needs of small business owners, especially professional practices of attorneys and physicians. Her wealth of knowledge and experience, combined with her kindly, warm personality and genuine personal interest, sets her apart from other tax professionals.

Debra loves animals and is an avid gardener. She often graces the office with beautiful, fresh-cut flowers straight from her garden!

Our friendly, professional staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service to you!
Feel free to contact a member of our staff directly regarding a specific matter.

	KIMBERLY BERNESS, EA • SENIOR TAX ACCOUNTANT kim@debrajohnsoncpa.com Kimberly is highly experienced and knowledgeable in the areas of individual and business taxes, with many years of professional experience, and is enrolled to practice before IRS. She graduated from college with honors in 1996 and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa and Who's Who Among American Junior Colleges. She enjoys writing poetry and short stories and also loves to sing a variety of musical genres. Originally from Alabama, she has resided in the Atlanta area for over 13 years. Contact her for any questions regarding tax preparation, including ways to reduce tax liability.
	DARIN AUSTIN • OFFICE MANAGER darin@debrajohnsoncpa.com As our highly organized, efficient and prompt Office Manager, Darin is able to assist you with all general inquiries. He also provides Notary Public services. Darin oversees the general daily functions of the firm and helps keep everyone organized and efficient. He is proficient in American Sign Language and his background includes construction and home remodeling.
	AMBER AUSTIN • SENIOR FINANCIAL ACCOUNTANT amber@debrajohnsoncpa.com Amber's wide range of experience in all things accounting and bookkeeping will assist you in all your small business needs. She is highly detailed and meticulous in her work, and specializes in monthly accounting and payroll reporting for partnership and corporations. Amber is also fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).
	PATTI BURNS • STAFF ACCOUNTANT patti@debrajohnsoncpa.com As one of the newest members of the firm, Patti brings with her more than ten years of experience in corporate accounting and business management. Patti has extensive knowledge in the preparation of budgets, financial statement analysis and payroll. Most recently, Patti has earned certificates of specialization in the areas of business and individual tax preparation, accounting and payroll. She loves living in the Atlanta area and enjoys traveling to the Gulf of Mexico whenever possible.
	KAY STEVERSON • STAFF ACCOUNTANT kay@debrajohnsoncpa.com Kay has worked in the field of bookkeeping and accounting for more than 30 years, and contributes a wealth of knowledge and experience to our firm. Always kindly and professional, she specializes in corporate accounting, preparation of financial reports and payroll.
	BARBARA HAWKINS • TAX PREPARATION ASSISTANT barbara@debrajohnsoncpa.com Barbara is instrumental in the tax preparation process and a vital link to clients. In addition to her experience in the field of tax preparation, she has also worked for the IRS.
	AMANDA BILLINGS • ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT amanda@debrajohnsoncpa.com Amanda is one of the friendly voices you'll hear when you call our office. Talk to her about any questions regarding fees, billing and payments as well as setting appointments. Originally from New England, she is a recent transplant to the South. Amanda's background also includes graphic design and desktop publishing, and she doubles as our in-house Graphic Designer and Webmaster.
	RACHEL SHAY • ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT rachel@debrajohnsoncpa.com Rachel is another helpful voice answering your phone call. She can help you with setting appointments, as well as answering any questions you may have regarding the status of your tax return preparation. In addition to being fluent in American Sign Language, Rachel enjoys learning the Hindi language.