About

From Annette Hamilton – Founder of Compass Accounting & Business Solutions

Known as “The Accountant That Cares,” I combine technical expertise with genuine compassion, helping clients navigate complex tax and financial matters with confidence. I believe every client deserves respect, honesty and personal attention. By taking the time to understand each client’s unique situation, I explain complex tax and financial matters in plain language and develop practical solutions with integrity. My mission is to help clients move from uncertainty to clarity, providing confidence and peace of mind every step of the way.

I believe every client deserves honest advice, responsive communication, and a trusted professional who takes the time to listen before recommending solutions. I believe exceptional results come from working together through open communication, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to achieving your financial and business goals. Whether assisting with a single engagement or supporting you or your business over the long term, my goal is to become your trusted advisor by earning your confidence through integrity, accountability, practical guidance, and exceptional service.

More About Annette

Annette Hamilton, Forensic Accountant/EA, brings nearly four decades of accounting, finance, tax, forensic, and business advisory experience to individuals, business owners, attorneys, and organizations seeking trusted financial guidance.

Before founding Compass Accounting & Business Solutions in 2005, Annette spent 15 years in Corporate America, serving in progressively responsible leadership roles including Senior Accountant, Senior Financial Analyst, Internal Auditor, Controller, CFO, and CEO. This diverse background provides her with a unique ability to understand both the financial and operational challenges businesses face at every stage of growth.

As a Forensic Accountant and Enrolled Agent, Annette’s expertise extends well beyond traditional accounting and tax preparation. Her work includes forensic accounting, litigation support, IRS tax resolution, tax planning, business advisory services, financial analysis, internal controls, and complex accounting matters. She regularly assists business owners and individuals in navigating financial challenges, resolving tax issues, improving financial visibility, and making informed business decisions.

Annette is known for combining technical expertise with practical business experience, clear communication, and a calm, solutions-oriented approach. Clients value her ability to analyze complex situations, identify practical solutions, and provide guidance that supports both financial stability and long-term success. That long-term success is based on clear communication and valuing relationships.

Compass Accounting & Business Solutions was founded on the belief that accounting should provide more than compliance. Financial information should help business owners understand their business, make informed decisions, manage risk, plan for taxes, improve profitability, and achieve their goals with confidence.

Today, the firm provides accounting and tax services, forensic accounting, litigation support, IRS tax resolution, tax planning, business advisory services, and strategic financial guidance for business owners, attorneys, and individuals throughout Washington and beyond.

Our Core Values

At Compass Accounting & Business Solutions, our work is guided by seven values that reflect both who we are and how we serve:

  • Integrity, doing what is right, always
  • Honesty, truth and transparency in every action
  • Accuracy, precision, documentation, and accountability
  • Quality, excellence in every engagement
  • Kindness, treating others with empathy and respect
  • Respect, professionalism toward clients, colleagues, and the law
  • Accountability, responsibility for our work and commitments
  • These values form the foundation of every client relationship and every engagement we undertake

Our Reach

Headquartered in Mukilteo, Washington, Compass Accounting & Business Solutions serves clients throughout Washington State, across the United States, and internationally assisting US Citizens living abroad.

Our affiliated divisions and businesses —Compass Tax Relief and 420 Accounting & Tax Inc.—extend our expertise into IRS representation and cannabis industry accounting, allowing us to provide full-spectrum financial services nationwide.

Professional Memberships

  • National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA)
  • American Society of Tax Problem Solvers (ASTPS)
  • Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
  • National Society of Accountants (NSA)
  • National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP)
  • BNI International
  • Mukilteo Chamber of Commerce
  • Lynnwood Chamber of Commerce