How This Tax Professional Helped Nearly 50 Families Pay Off Over $150,000 in Personal Debt

Toni Galang

Team Member

Meet Shaan Rizvi, the visionary founder of RizBiz Services and a true advocate for financial empowerment. Through his own journey of paying off $63,000 in debt in just 13 months, Shaan discovered his passion for helping others break free from financial stress and build a secure future. In this blog, Shaan shares insights into his mission, the challenges he’s faced, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. From client success stories to invaluable advice for those just starting out in the tax industry, his answers provide a glimpse into the heart and purpose behind his business.

Shaan Rizvi, RizBiz Services

Title: Owner

Location: Houston, TX

Year established: 2023

Connect with Shaan

Website: www.rizbizservices.com

RizBiz Services helps people and businesses take control of their finances with simple, reliable support in bookkeeping, taxes, and financial coaching. Guided by our EPIC values—Excellence, Punctuality, Integrity, and Communication—we make money stuff less stressful and help clients succeed with honesty, care, and results that matter.

Breaking Free from Financial Stress

Q: What key moments or decisions led you to start your business or pursue a career in this field?

Shaan: My debt-free journey was more than just paying off $63,000 in 13 months—it completely changed how I viewed life. I realized that what we’ve been taught as “normal” isn’t the only way to live. There’s another path, one where financial peace and freedom let you focus on what truly matters. It opened my eyes to the fact that life doesn’t have to be dictated by debt or financial stress.

That experience is what drove me to start RizBiz Services. For me, this is more than just a business—it’s a mission. I want to help others see that they can take control of their finances, break free from the stress, and change their family tree. Whether it’s through bookkeeping, taxes, or financial coaching, I’m here to guide people toward smarter financial choices so they can build wealth and create a legacy of freedom. Financial independence isn’t just a dream—it’s possible, and I’m passionate about showing others that there’s a better way.

Q: Describe any early challenges and how you overcame them.

Shaan: Starting RizBiz Services definitely came with its challenges. In the beginning, it was tough to get the word out and build trust with people who didn’t know me yet. I didn’t have a big marketing budget, so I focused on word-of-mouth, networking, and simply being available to answer questions and provide value to anyone who needed help with their finances. On top of that, running a business while staying true to my mission felt overwhelming at times. But I leaned into my EPIC values—Excellence, Punctuality, Integrity, and Communication—and kept reminding myself why I started in the first place.

One thing that made all the difference was being part of a community of like-minded people who shared similar goals and aspirations. Surrounding myself with others who were on their own journeys toward financial freedom or building businesses was inspiring and motivating. Their support, advice, and encouragement helped me grow stronger and more confident as a professional. It reminded me that I wasn’t alone in this and that the work I was doing mattered.

That sense of community also shaped how I show up for my clients. It taught me that what I do isn’t just about finances—it’s about people, their dreams, and their futures. I’ve been able to take the lessons and insights I’ve gained and use them to build better relationships with both new and returning clients. Looking back, those early challenges were the foundation for the business I have today, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything. They pushed me to grow and reminded me that when we surround ourselves with the right people, we can achieve so much more.

Q: What primary services does your business provide, and who is your typical client?

Shaan: At RizBiz Services, we don’t just crunch numbers—we transform lives. For individuals, it’s about more than filing taxes or managing budgets; it’s about creating strategies that put them in control of their money and their future. We teach tax-saving strategies, set up personalized plans, and make sure they can rest easy knowing someone is looking out for their best interests. It’s all about helping them stay on track with their goals and making their money work for them.

One of my favorite examples is a client who used to owe taxes every year. After working together, we not only helped her turn that around, but she’s now projected to receive an $800 refund. By showing her how to keep more money in her pocket throughout the year, she was able to save for a down payment on her first home. She went from living paycheck to paycheck to having intentional paychecks, where every dollar had a purpose. That shift helped her hit her financial goals and gave her a sense of control and confidence she didn’t have before.

For businesses, especially those within their first five years, we focus on building systems that simplify cash flow management and show the true health of their business. It’s about more than just staying afloat—it’s about aligning with their financial vision and supporting them every step of the way. We prioritize growth, clear communication, and becoming a trusted partner for our clients because they know we’re truly on their team.

Yes, we offer bookkeeping. Yes, we offer tax services. Yes, we offer financial coaching. But more importantly, we offer hope, accountability, and an ally by your side every step of the way.

EPIC Approach to Tax Strategy, Client Relationships, and Financial Success

Q: What are the core values or mission that drive your business?

Shaan: At RizBiz Services, our EPIC values—Excellence, Punctuality, Integrity, and Communication—are at the heart of everything we do. These values aren’t just words; they guide how we work with our clients and how we show up every day.

Excellence means we don’t cut corners. We deliver top-notch work and go the extra mile to make sure you get the results you need.

Punctuality is about respecting your time. Deadlines matter, and we pride ourselves on being reliable and on time—always.

Integrity is the backbone of our business. We’re honest, transparent, and do what’s right, even when it’s hard.

Communication is key. We keep you in the loop, make things simple to understand, and ensure you always feel supported and heard.

Our mission is straightforward! "We help people and businesses take control of their finances, eliminate stress, and create a clear plan for growth and success. By aligning with your vision, we work together to make your goals a reality."

At the end of the day, we’re not just here to just push buttons or file forms. We’re here to help you succeed, grow, and feel confident about your financial future.

Q: How do you stay connected with and build trust among your clients?

Shaan: Building trust with my clients is all about staying real, staying available, and showing that I genuinely care about their success. I make it a priority to check in regularly, keep them updated, and be there when they need help or guidance. It’s not just about doing the work—it’s about building a relationship.

I also focus a lot on educating my clients. Whether it’s breaking down tax strategies, explaining financial reports, or teaching a business owner how to manage their cash flow better, I want them to feel confident and in control. When they know I’m not just solving problems but actually helping them understand their finances, it builds trust naturally.

Every client is different, so I make sure to tailor my approach to their specific needs and goals. I listen to what they want to achieve and where they’re struggling, and then we work together to create solutions that align with their vision. For example, I’ve helped a business owner set up a cash flow system that made running their business easier, and I’ve guided individuals toward saving more money to reach big milestones, like buying a home.

At the end of the day, it’s about being honest, clear, and reliable. My clients know I’m on their side, rooting for them, and committed to helping them reach their goals. That’s what builds trust and keeps those connections strong.

Q: Are there any misconceptions about tax preparation that you frequently encounter?

Shaan: There are so many misconceptions about tax preparation. One of the biggest is thinking it’s just about filing forms once a year. In reality, tax prep is an ongoing process that involves planning ahead to save money and reduce stress when tax season comes around.

Another common myth is that tax preparers are just “form fillers.” What people don’t realize is how much value a tax professional can bring. We don’t just input numbers; we look for deductions, find credits, and create strategies to lower your tax bill—not just for this year, but for the future too. It’s about helping you keep more of your hard-earned money.

A lot of people also think, “I don’t make enough money to need tax help.” That’s just not true. Whether you’re running a small business or filing a simple return, there are always ways to optimize your taxes, like adjusting withholdings, finding credits, or planning for retirement contributions.

Finally, one of the biggest mistakes is thinking tax software is always cheaper or better. While it might seem convenient, software doesn’t strategize or ask the right follow-up questions. I’ve seen people miss out on thousands of dollars in credits or deductions because the software didn’t catch it. The IRS isn’t going to fix mistakes in your favor, but a tax pro will.

At the end of the day, tax preparation isn’t just about forms—it’s about planning, saving, and making sure you’re set up for success. That’s where I come in, to help you make the most of your money and avoid costly mistakes.

How RizBiz Services is Helping Families and Businesses Achieve Financial Freedom

Q: Could you share a client success story or impactful project?

Shaan: One of the most memorable success stories I’ve had was with a family who came to me after filing with TurboTax. Their return was showing they owed close to $2,000 in taxes, and they had no idea why. The software gave them the result but didn’t explain how it got there or what went wrong. Naturally, they were stressed and frustrated.

When I sat down with them, I dug into their situation and discovered a few key issues. The husband was still working while receiving Social Security, and they had healthcare coverage through the Marketplace—two factors that significantly impacted their tax return. As we talked more about their life, they casually mentioned that they had installed solar panels on their home. I’ll never forget the confusion on their faces when they saw me light up with excitement as I told them about a potential tax credit they might qualify for.

After carefully reviewing their details, we were able to apply the solar energy credit, which completely turned things around. Instead of owing $2,000, they ended up with a $700 refund! The relief and gratitude on their faces when I told them they didn’t owe anymore was priceless.

But the story doesn’t end there. I didn’t just help them fix their return—I gave them a plan to prevent similar issues in the future. We adjusted their withholdings and implemented tax-saving strategies tailored to their situation. The next year, I did their return again, and they received another refund.

This family is no longer just a client—they’re part of the RizBiz family. They know us, like us, and trust us, and I’m proud to say they’re now forever clients. Moments like these are why I do what I do: to make a real impact, bring peace of mind, and build relationships that last.

Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Shaan: One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is how much we’ve been able to grow and help others in such a short time. When I first started RizBiz Services, my goal was to help just 10 clients in our first year. After joining the SmartWiz Community, I raised that goal to 25 clients, but even that felt like a stretch at the time.

Fast forward through 2024, and I’m thrilled to share that we’ve helped over 120 clients with their taxes! Beyond that, we’ve also helped nearly 50 families pay off over $150,000 in personal debt!!

It’s been incredible to see the real-life impact of our work, helping people take control of their finances and change their lives.

Now, I'm excited to expand our focus to help small businesses grow too. I truly believe that the odds stacked against small business owners can be beaten with the right tools, strategies, and support. My mission is to keep growing, making an even bigger impact, and showing individuals and businesses that success is within reach.

The best part? We’re just getting started!

Build Relationships and Continue Learning

Q: Any advice for someone just starting in the tax industry?

Shaan: If you’re just starting in the tax industry, the best advice I can give is to focus on building real relationships with your clients. Taxes are personal, and people want to work with someone they trust. Take the time to listen to their concerns, understand their goals, and show them that you care about more than just filing their return. When you genuinely invest in your clients, they’ll stick with you and refer others.

Also, never stop learning. Tax laws are always changing, and staying ahead of the curve will set you apart. Don’t hesitate to take classes, join groups, or ask questions from those with more experience. The more you grow, the more confident and capable you’ll be when helping your clients.

Be prepared to hustle in the beginning. It takes time to build your reputation and client base, so don’t get discouraged if it feels slow at first. Consistency is everything. Show up, do great work, and word will spread.

Most importantly, be honest and clear. People trust you with a big part of their financial life, and how you communicate with them will make all the difference. If you explain things in a way they understand and always keep their best interests in mind, you’ll build a loyal client base that sees you as more than just a tax preparer—they’ll see you as an ally.

Stick with it, focus on your clients, and remember why you started. This industry isn’t just about numbers; it’s about making a difference in people’s lives.

Q: Are there any resources (book, podcasts, or article) that you find valuable?

Shaan:

Books:

• “Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz
  This book completely shifted how I view cash flow, especially for small businesses. It’s all about managing finances in a way that prioritizes profit and ensures you stay in control of your money.
• “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey
  This one was pivotal during my debt-free journey. It’s a straightforward guide to budgeting, paying off debt, and building wealth step by step.
• “EntreLeadership” by Dave Ramsey
  A powerful book for anyone running a business or leading a team. It combines practical business strategies with leadership principles to help you grow and lead with integrity.
• “Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
  This book teaches the power of taking full responsibility for every aspect of your life and business. It’s packed with actionable lessons on leadership, accountability, and teamwork.
• “The Miracle Morning” by Hal Elrod
  A life-changing book that shows how starting your day with purpose and intention can transform every area of your life. It’s all about creating a morning routine that sets you up for success.
• Bonus Book:
  “The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster” by Darren Hardy
  This book dives into the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship and provides practical advice for staying focused, motivated, and successful through it all. These books have had a huge impact on how I approach business, personal growth, and financial success.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, they’re must-reads!

Exciting Growth Ahead

Q: What are your goals for the next year?

Shaan: This year is shaping up to be an exciting one! We’re pleased to announce that we’ve added incredible team members who share our mission and are ready to help us make a bigger impact. In 2025, we’re looking to expand our services to include more Financial Peace classes, a bookkeeping course and credit repair course for our team members and also others who want to learn these skills to help those in need, and a brand-new monthly subscription for personal finance coaching.

These additions are all about empowering more people to take control of their finances and achieve their goals. We’re excited to gain traction and continue building a community of individuals and businesses who are equipped to thrive. This is more than just a business—it’s a movement, and we’re thrilled to see how many lives we can impact this year!