Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Chicago Accounting Partner
John R. Waters has been delivering personalized accounting and financial advisory services since 1971. Founded by John R. Waters after his extensive career in public accounting, the firm prioritizes customized client service, with many clients maintaining relationships spanning generations. Our approach combines hands-on consultation with tailored investment and tax strategies, ensuring long-term alignment with client goals. Guided by core values of respect, trust, and transparency, we serve families and privately held businesses through wealth management, accounting, assurance, tax planning, and business consulting.With over 45 years of tradition, we maintain low staff turnover to foster continuity and deep institutional knowledge. Our JRW Advantage model focuses on building, preserving, and transferring wealth, supported by experienced professionals who act as strategic partners. We assist startups and established businesses in developing accounting systems, provide assurance services with consistent teams, and offer tax compliance expertise. Our commitment to exceeding client expectations has solidified our reputation as a trusted advisor in Chicago and beyond.
Services
Wealth Management
Accounting Services
Assurance Services
Tax Planning
Business Consulting
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of experience in personalized accounting services
- Our JRW Advantage model ensures comprehensive wealth management strategies
- Low staff turnover guarantees consistent, knowledgeable service teams
- We provide tailored tax planning aligned with individual financial goals
- Our professionals combine accounting expertise with strategic business advisory
Services
Wealth Management
Our wealth management services help clients build, preserve, and transfer assets through customized investment strategies. We develop comprehensive plans that align with individual financial goals while minimizing tax liabilities. With ongoing guidance and regular portfolio reviews, we ensure clients maintain financial security throughout their lives and for future generations.
Accounting Services
We provide full-cycle accounting solutions for businesses at all stages, from startup software implementation to system assessments for established companies. Our team offers payroll setup, procedure development, and temporary CFO services. With expertise in accounting software and financial reporting, we help businesses maintain accurate records and make informed financial decisions.
Assurance Services
Our assurance services include audits, reviews, and compilations conducted by experienced professionals familiar with your business. Consistent team assignments ensure continuity, reducing onboarding time while delivering value-added insights. We help organizations maintain financial transparency and meet regulatory requirements through thorough, efficient processes.
Tax Planning
We offer comprehensive tax services including income tax planning, sales tax compliance, and representation before tax authorities. Our team stays current with evolving tax laws to optimize clients' tax positions while ensuring compliance. We develop strategic tax plans that integrate with overall financial objectives for individuals and businesses.
Business Consulting
Our business consulting services provide strategic guidance for critical decisions, including mergers and acquisitions, financial forecasting, and operational planning. We combine accounting expertise with industry knowledge to deliver actionable insights. Services include controller/CFO support, due diligence analysis, and long-term business strategy development.
People
John R. Waters
Founder
John R. Waters established the firm in 1971 after a distinguished career in public accounting. He pioneered the personalized service model that remains central to the firm's approach, maintaining long-term client relationships that span generations.
James Murphy
Managing Partner
James Murphy serves as Managing Partner, continuing John Waters' legacy through commitment to personalized service and client trust. He oversees firm operations while maintaining active client relationships, ensuring adherence to the firm's founding principles.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for small businesses?
We provide full-cycle accounting services including software implementation, payroll setup, system assessments, and temporary CFO support tailored to small businesses' needs.
How does your wealth management approach differ from other firms?
Our JRW Advantage model focuses on personalized, multi-generational wealth planning with ongoing guidance to adapt to changing financial circumstances and tax laws.
Do you handle both individual and corporate tax planning?
Yes, we offer comprehensive tax services for both individuals and businesses, including income tax planning, compliance, and representation before federal and state tax authorities.
What experience do you have with business succession planning?
With over 50 years serving privately held businesses, we specialize in succession planning, mergers and acquisitions consulting, and strategic business transition strategies.
How do you ensure continuity in client service?
Our low staff turnover ensures consistent team assignments, allowing our professionals to develop deep understanding of client operations and maintain long-term relationships.
