Karen Hess

Karen is a manager in the firm's tax department who works closely with business owners, families and individuals on tax planning, compliance and advisory matters. Known for her responsive and relationship-driven approach, she serves as a trusted advisor, helping clients navigate complex financial decisions with confidence.

In addition to providing tax return preparation, bookkeeping and tax planning services, Karen is the firm's payroll expert, managing quarterly and annual reporting processes, including the preparation of thousands of Forms W-2 and 1099 each year. She also serves as Gross Mendelsohn's resource for Maryland's FAMLI program, helping employers understand requirements, prepare for key deadlines and address implementation considerations. Karen also provides outsourced accounting services, utilizing QuickBooks to help clients manage day-to-day personal and business transactions.

Karen’s favorite things about the accounting profession are the variety of work and the deadline-driven aspects of each task. She also delights in training and mentoring staff.

Outside the office, you’ll find Karen spending time with her husband hiking, attending live music concerts, Broadway shows, Ravens games, classic car shows and playing with their cats.