We had the good fortune of connecting with Katika Neal and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katika, how do you think about risk?
I believe that taking risks are a necessary component to achieving success in life and in your career. In March 2020, I was laid off without notice, a two week paycheck, and a “sorry”. At that point, I decided that I never wanted anyone to control my income or my life again. Although my tax business was already established on a part time basis, it was at that moment that I decided to pursue full time entrepreneurship and working for someone else was no longer an option. I was terrified, but I felt like that was my opportunity to pursue my dreams. I didn’t know how but I knew that I WOULD become a national Tax Preparation company and I would never look back. As of today, I have not punched a clock since 3/11/2020.
 

What should our readers know about your business?
I am the proud owner of Taxes Made Better LLC. I am the sole tax preparer and I have almost 300 tax clients across 20 states. What sets my company apart? Most of my clients have been referred to me over the past few years. My integrity and commitment to my clients is unmatched. I care about them and I let them know that by providing top tier service. I am most proud of processing over 1.3 mil dollars in tax refunds in 2022. Not only was this a record breaking year for me, but I was able to help a lot of families and that meant the world to me. For the past few tax seasons, I’ve had challenges with finding someone to assist me but I’ve learned to pace myself and not get overwhelmed. My clients understand that I work alone, so they generally don’t give me a hard time if I take a little longer. Some lessons that I’ve learned along the way: Nobody is going to rescue you, you have to work hard and care about your own company. Also, be nice to everyone! Why? People recommend you when you are nice to them. Lastly, believe in your business because if you don’t, nobody else will! I want the world to know that Taxes Made Better WILL BE THE NUMBER ONE TAX PREPARATION COMPANY IN AMERICA! The “MADE BETTER” brand is growing and expanding to bigger and better! Life isn’t easy and working for yourself certainly isn’t. I had to overcome many obstacles and fight through a lot of painful days. But I learned to Hustle Through Heartbreak. In the words of a beautiful soul who made a great impact on my life, – We don’t quit when we are tired, we quit when we are DONE- Brittany Pitts #GemForLife


If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to Naperville (Naperville Riverwalk), Magnificent Mile (Downtown Chicago), Rosemont IL, Museum Campus. We would visit various restaurants because I’m a foodie and I like to eat.


The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Above all, I give honor to God! Without HIM, I am nothing. My grandmother, Dr. Delma Priest was the first person who ever told me ”If It Is To Be, It Is Up To Me”. I was 18 years old when she passed away, but she instilled great things in me and I’ll always remember that I don’t have to accept what I’m given, but go after what I want! My Bishop, Alfondia Reese IIII has been a huge motivator, encourager, friend, but most of all, leader. I have to acknowledge my beautiful parents, Sameta and Ronald Sr. who brought me into this world and support and encourage me every single day. Without them, I could not have completed college or worked any jobs when my children were little. They took good amazing care of my boys. Furthermore, I have to acknowledge Deshon who has pushed me and literally would not let me quit no matter the obstacles. Thank you for being my my side during some of the most difficult days of my life. Carolyn Chiovino Rudnick who has been a longtime friend and always encouraged, taught, mentored and believed in me. Lastly, my INCREDIBLE children, Gregory, Ronald III and Kevin are my greatest REASONS. I’m who they have to look up to and I’ll never let them down. There are several others that I truly appreciate and love dearly. Thank you to everyone!

Website: Taxesmadebetter.com

Instagram: Taxesmadebetter

Linkedin: Katika Neal

Facebook: katika does taxes

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