About - Golden Spike Tax & Advisory | Full Service Tax & Accounting Firm

About Golden Spike Tax

Northern Utah’s Trusted Accounting Firm

Golden Spike Tax & Advisory is built on a foundation of trust, reliability, and a deep understanding of the ever-changing tax landscape. We stay current with the latest tax laws and regulations to provide you with accurate and timely advice. Our goal is to simplify the complexities of tax management, allowing you to focus on what matters most to you. From maximizing deductions to tax planning for the future, we work diligently to optimize your tax outcomes.

Whether you are an individual taxpayer or a business owner, we offer a comprehensive range of services including tax planning, tax preparation, and bookkeeping – all designed to ensure your financial success.

Meet the Team

Sydnee Brooks, Owner & Founder

Sydnee Brooks is the owner and founder of Golden Spike Tax & Advisory, where she combines her deep expertise in tax and accounting with a client-centered approach. With two Bachelor’s degrees–one in Piano Education and one in Accounting–and a Master’s of Taxation from Weber State University, Sydnee brings a unique perspective to the industry. Her mission is to simplify the complexities of tax management and empower clients to make informed financial decisions.

Outside of her professional life, Sydnee balances work with family, enjoying the benefits of being a work-from-home mom while having an office adjacent to her husband’s automotive restoration shop in Ogden, Utah. She dreams of owning a large homestead someday, but for now, her backyard is filled with chickens, ducks, dogs, and garden boxes. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and chasing her son around dad’s shop.

DANI ELIAS

Daniela is a committed professional with a degree in Business Administration and a certification in Data Analytics. With a passion for continuous learning and personal growth, she embraces new challenges that enhance her skills and knowledge. Currently focused on the accounting field, with a strong foundation in business principles and a keen analytical mindset, Daniela is eager to contribute her abilities to the industry, she is committed to making a positive impact in the accounting field and beyond.

Outside of work, Daniela leads an active lifestyle. She enjoys powerlifting and finds joy in attending concerts and exploring new destinations. She believes in the importance of giving back and actively contributes to her community, fostering connections and making a difference. Her enthusiasm for life and commitment to excellence make her a well-rounded individual and a valuable asset to our team!

Maureen Padilla

Maureen is a Certified Public Accountant from the Philippines with five years of experience across various fields of accounting, including audit, bookkeeping, general accounting, and taxation. She has specialized experience in tax preparation, and she thrives on tackling new challenges in her work, as it has helped her grow and succeed in her career.

Outside of her professional life, Maureen is an avid traveler who enjoys exploring new places and cultures. In her downtime, she loves watching shows and movies, and she stays active by playing sports like volleyball, basketball, and badminton. She is a proud dog owner to two wonderful dogs, Pixie and Max, who add joy to her everyday life.

TARYN BRANHAM

Taryn has over 10 years of experience in different office environments. She specializes in Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, billing, insurance, and administrative support. Her strong communication skills, attention to detail, & commitment to efficiency has enabled her to successfully streamline operations and enhance administrative processes. Throughout her career, she has built a strong reputation for reliability, organization, and dedication. Outside of work, she is a proud mom to a 16-year-old who inspires her and helps drive her strong work ethic in everything she does.

Testimonials

My experience with Sydnee has been nothing but the best! I used to use Turbo Tax but when I switched to Sydnee I have had a far better experience (and tax return) because she is able to be far more precise and detailed than I ever could be (not a knock on turbo tax, just my own personal experience). I have worked a lot of odd side jobs that she helped me appropriately account for on my taxes which has been a huge relief. She is professional and timely. I always have complete confidence in her work.”

This is the nicest, most down to earth, amazingly encouraging woman you will ever meet! On top of being just an incredible human being, she is pretty awesome at taxes! You won’t need ot worry about a thing during tax season, she has you covered like your favorite blanket!

Sydnee’s tax return process was so simple, transparent and stress-free. She did an amazing job! Honestly, after seven years of doing my own taxes and two years of going to someone else, she has by far exceeding my expectations and done a wonderful job. She was very clear in what information she needed up front, helpful on where and how to find it, asked questions very politely but straightforward and overall was very professional. Thank you so much, Sydnee. I hope to do taxes with you again in the future!

When I first opened my salon, I thought any accountant would do—but I quickly learned how much that choice matters! Syd has been a lifesaver, stepping in to correct issues from previous missteps and taking exceptional care of my business ever since. She’s incredibly knowledgeable, reliable, and goes above and beyond to ensure I fully understand what’s happening within my business. I recommend her to anyone looking for a trustworthy and dedicated accountant!

I've worked with Sydnee for a while now, and she’s been incredible! She’s very knowledgeable and approachable, always finding the best strategies to help me get the highest return possible. We connect several times a year to address any questions and ensure I’m set up in the best way for my financial goals. Highly recommend her expertise and friendly approach!