Meet Joe Vaughan

CPA, CFP®, and founder of Vaughan Family Financial. I believe wealth isn't inherently good or evil—it's how we manage it that matters.

Too many business owners face regret from mismanaged finances, disconnected advice, and conflicting interests. I founded VFF to change that.

CPA
CFP®
University of Alabama '17
Joe Vaughan, CPA, CFP

Why I Founded VFF

I founded Vaughan Family Financial on a fundamental belief: wealth isn't inherently good or evil—it's how we manage it that matters. Too many people face regret from mismanaged finances, disconnected advice, and conflicting interests.

By combining CPA expertise with CFP credentials and operating as a fee-only fiduciary, I eliminate the conflicts and communication gaps that plague traditional advisory relationships. VFF exists to provide unbiased, integrated financial guidance—helping clients navigate their two biggest lifetime expenses: taxes and retirement.

"Vaughan Family Financial was created to represent a firm that is a fiduciary to the highest degree, forgoing commissions to commit to unbiased advice. I love people and working with people, especially to help them plan for the biggest expenses they'll ever have—tax and retirement."

After graduating from the University of Alabama in 2017 with degrees in Accounting and Family Financial Planning, I spent years working in public accounting and wealth management. I saw firsthand the problems that arise when your CPA and financial advisor don't communicate—strategies that save taxes might conflict with investment plans, and opportunities get missed in the gaps.

In 2023, I launched VFF to solve this problem. As both your CPA and financial advisor, I ensure your bookkeeping, taxes, and investments all work together seamlessly. No more "talk to your CPA" or "ask your advisor"—just integrated, conflict-free advice.

My Approach

Most business owners come to me because their business is growing and they're overwhelmed. They need help in three areas—bookkeeping, taxes, and financial planning—but their current CPA is bogged down, hard to reach, and not proactive.

My approach is different. I'm responsive, proactive, and I simplify complex topics. Your books, taxes, and financial plans stay in sync, and you get year-round guidance—not just annual tax preparation. Most importantly, I have no conflicts of interest. As a fee-only advisor independent from broker-dealers, I'm compensated by you, not by product sales or commissions.

What I Stand For

⚖️

Fiduciary Standard

I'm legally obligated to act in your best interest—always. No conflicts, no hidden fees, no product pushing.

🤝

Integration

Your CPA and financial advisor should be the same person. Integrated advice means no gaps, no miscommunication, and better outcomes.

💡

Clarity

Financial planning shouldn't be complicated. I simplify complex topics and explain things in plain English, so you always understand your options.

Beyond the Office

When I'm not helping clients navigate their finances, you'll find me enjoying life in North Alabama with my wife Larissa. We're expecting our first child in August 2026—a milestone that's taught me even more about the importance of good financial planning!

🏈 Alabama & Lions Football

Roll Tide! As a University of Alabama grad, I bleed crimson and white. I also follow the Detroit Lions—a testament to my loyalty and patience.

🎣 Outdoors

I love fishing and firing up the pellet smoker. There's something about low-and-slow cooking that teaches patience—a skill that applies to wealth building too.

⛪ Community

My wife and I attend Most Merciful Jesus Catholic Church in Athens, AL. I also serve on local boards when asked—giving back to North Alabama is important to me.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family First

Spending time with family and friends is what matters most. North Alabama is home to me—always will be—and I'm raising my family here.

Let's Work Together

If you're a business owner looking for integrated financial guidance from someone who actually cares about your success, let's talk.

Schedule a Consultation
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