ABOUT PESANTE CLOSE
Your financial success is our passion—and it shows
For over 20 years, Pesante Close has provided comprehensive accounting, tax, and advisory services to businesses and individuals throughout Southern Maryland. Founded by Terri Pesante-Close, our firm combines professional expertise with genuine personal attention and the responsiveness you deserve.
A different kind of accounting firm
We started Pesante Close with a simple belief: Accounting services should be clear, accessible, and actually helpful. No surprise fees, no unreturned phone calls, no feeling like just another number in someone’s client list. Just straightforward guidance from people who genuinely care about your success.
OUR STORY
Built on the belief that accounting should feel supportive, not stressful
We started Pesante Close with a simple mission: To provide small business owners and families with accounting services that actually make their lives easier. Based in La Plata, we’ve grown into a team of Maryland accounting professionals who specialize in alleviating financial stress so you can focus on what matters most to you.
What sets us apart: We operate with transparency, respond promptly to your questions, and never make you feel like just another account number. Our range of financial services, from bookkeeping to tax preparation to financial planning, is designed around your real-world needs.
OUR APPROACH
Technology-forward thinking with old-fashioned care
We’ve embraced virtual operations and cutting-edge accounting services to serve clients better, but we’ll never lose sight of the personal relationships that make our work meaningful. When you call, you’ll reach real people who know your name and your business.
Perfect for: Small businesses, nonprofits, service professionals, and individuals who want accounting services that combine expertise with genuine personal attention.
RECOGNITION & AWARDS
Honored by our community
We’re proud to be five-time consecutive finalists for the Southern Maryland Community Choice Awards, winning in 2025. Our founder, Terri Pesante-Close, has been recognized as one of the “Women to Watch” in Southern Maryland for her leadership and contributions to the business community. These honors reflect our commitment to exceptional service, but what matters most to us is the trust our clients place in us every day. We don’t take that responsibility lightly.
WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS
Leadership that understands your challenges
As a certified woman-owned business, we bring a unique perspective to the accounting industry. Terri Pesante-Close founded this firm with a vision of creating an accounting practice that prioritizes clear communication, genuine relationships, and responsive service over simply processing returns and sending invoices. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, accessibility, and practical guidance that actually helps clients make better financial decisions. This approach has shaped our entire firm culture and the way every team member interacts with clients.
Our commitment to you
When you work with Pesante Close, here’s what you can expect:
- We answer the phone. When you call with questions, you’ll reach a real person who knows your business and can help immediately.
- No billing surprises. We provide transparent, fixed monthly pricing so you always know what to expect.
- Year-round support. We’re here when you need us, not just during tax season.
- Clear communication. We explain things in plain language, not confusing accounting jargon.
- Genuine care. Your success matters to us, and we’re invested in helping you achieve your goals.
- Modern technology. We use secure, efficient systems that make your life easier while protecting your information.
FAQs
Common questions about working with us.
Do you work with clients outside of Maryland?
How does onboarding with your firm work?
This approach allows us to work efficiently, maintain clean and accurate books, and provide seamless support throughout the year. By the end of onboarding, you are fully integrated into our system and set up for a smooth and successful relationship with our firm.
Our team
Terri Pesante-Close, EA
Firm Owner | Client CFO
Kayla Pesante-Edelen, EA
Client CFO | Enrolled Agent
Olivia Bainter
Executive Administrator
Shannon Stewart
Client Controller
Shelby Tucker
Client Controller
Marie Mignon Nillama
Team Accountant
Blake Pesante
Team Accountant
Rodah May Pilapil
Team Accountant
Anne Wood, EA
Enrolled Agent
Ready to experience accounting done differently?
Whether you’re a business owner tired of unreturned phone calls or an individual looking for personal attention during tax season, we’d love to talk with you about how Pesante Close can support your financial success.