Principal
847.580.4100 x.115
gharlow@koscpa.com
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For almost 30 years Geoff has provided tax and consulting services to those in the manufacturing, construction, real estate, publishing, professional services, travel, professional sports, and entertainment industries. He works with businesses and corporations as well as families and individuals. While Geoff’s professional practice weighs heavily on tax compliance, he routinely provides tax research, tax planning and business consultation advice to his clients. In addition, Geoff has extensive expertise in accounting and trusts and estate planning.
After spending 13 years with “Big Four” and national accounting firms, Geoff founded Harlow & Associates P.C. in 1991. In 2003, Geoff merged his firm with KOS. He currently serves as Chair of the KOS Tax Committee. Geoff is a frequent contributor for the Illinois CPA Society supplying insight and guidance on various tax and accounting issues.
Practice Areas
Families & Individuals, Manufacturers & Wholesalers, Real Estate & Construction, Professional Service Firms
Education
M.B.A., in Finance and Strategic Planning, Northwestern University
M.S., in Taxation, DePaul University
B.B.A., in Accounting, University of Michigan
Professional Activities
CPA Associates International, Tax Committee
American Institute of CPAs
Illinois CPA Society, Nominations Committee and Tax Advisory Committee member; regularly featured in media and publications; past Board of Directors; and a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award in 2008,2010 and 2011
Community Involvement
Evanston Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association, Treasurer
Evanston Youth Hockey Association, past president
First Night Evanston, former treasurer
North Shore Corvette Club
Warren Cherry Preschool, founding board member
Young Evanston Artists, board member
What was it about the accounting industry that drew your interest?
I ended up as an accounting major by accident. I enjoyed the introductory course and did well. My plan was to keep taking accounting courses until they were no longer fun, which never happened. I chose public accounting because I enjoy the interaction with clients and am facinated by the variety of businesses I serve.
What wisdom would you offer to aspiring accountants?
Always treat clients like you wish to be treated. Make an effort to learn as much as you can about their businesses. There is no such thing as good planning or advice in the absence of context.
How do you want to be remembered?
As someone who loved and appreciated his family, and always did a little more than was expected.
Who is your hero and why?
My father—he contracted polio as a child and lost his own father at a young age. He put himself through college by working at a factory, waiting tables, and washing walls, and became a successful business executive. He stressed education and hard work to his children, and was very supportive of us.
What was your first job?
At age 11, a morning paper route for the Detroit Free Press.
What lesson from mom or dad do you still live by today?
Never be afraid of hard work.
What do you most look forward to?
Family vacations and the Stanley Cup playoffs.
What word best describes you?
Eclectic.
Quotable quote:
“You can’t turn a pig into a racehorse, but you can make it into a pretty fast pig.”
