Built for the small Business Owner

Who's Tired of figuring it out alone

We know your situation — and exactly what to do about it.

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Accounting is boring.

Small businesses are anything but.

What I love about this work has nothing to do with tax returns. It's getting inside different businesses, understanding how they work, and actually helping them grow and make better decisions.

When a client calls and says "I wish I'd found you sooner," that's the whole point. We built this firm to be the team you can call, the people who already know your situation, and the ones who reach out to you before you even think to ask.

- Kurt Rickhoff

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Great Accounting Helps You Decide What's Next.

Good Accounting Tells You What Happened.

We don't start with reports, we start with a conversation about your goals, your challenges, and where you want to go. Then we use your numbers to guide better decisions so we can help you move forward, not just report results.

The numbers aren't the destination. They're the dashboard. And we're here to help you drive.

Our Story

Started in a Basement, Built to Help Businesses Move Forward

Our founders, Dennis and Jeanette Rickhoff, didn't set out to build a traditional accounting firm. Dennis worked at his dad’s tavern, got to know the accountant who came around every month, and saw something in that work: a way to actually make a difference for small business owners instead of just punching a clock. So in 1974, they bought a small book of business, a handful of local taverns, and started doing their books every month out of their basement.

What started as a small operation grew into a third-generation firm with a full team, decades of combined experience, and over 1000 small business relationships built on trust. Today, Kurt and Melinda lead the firm with the same belief Dennis and Jeanette started with: that great accounting changes what’s possible for a small business.

1974
1976
1983
1997
1998
2002
2003
2009
2012
2016
2017
2019
2022
2023
2024

Founded

Dennis & Jeanette start the firm in their basement with a handful of local taverns and a belief small business owners deserve better.

First Office

The firm moves from the family basement to its first office in Breese, IL.

Missouri

Purchase of Midwest Accounting expands the firm across the river into Missouri.

2nd Generation

Kurt joins full time. Total Business Solutions formed - now Payroll Central - making integrated payroll a formal offering.

Mindi Joins

Mindi joins full time, completing the second generation. Purchase of Gary Soltys practice expands client base.

O'Fallon Opens

The firm opens its current O'Fallon, IL office - a permanent home reflecting the firm's regional growth.

Acquisition

Purchase of Small Business Accounting from Torn Melendez deepens the roster of long-term small business clients.

Pasba Award

Named PASBA Large Firm of the Year - national recognition for the firm's proactive approach to small business accounting.

Transition

Kurt and Mindi complete the purchase, officially establishing the second generation of Rickhoff leadership.

100 to Know

Kurt named to 100 St. Louisians You Should Know - reflecting his reputation as a  trusted voice for small business owners.

Chesterfield

Purchase of Business in Balance brings a Chesterfield, MO office - first Missouri brick-and-mortar since 1992. 

Mary Jo Retires

Mary Jo Richter retires after 33 years - a testament to the culture Dennis and Jeanette built from day one.

Rita Retires

Rita Lawless retires after 25 years. At Rickhoff, people stay - clients and team members alike.

3rd Generation

Allison Rickhoff joins full time - third generation. Founder Dennis Rickhoff passes after 49 years of impact.

50 Years

Fifty years of serving small business. Same belief as day one. Modern tools, proactive thinking, and a team that responds before you have to ask.

MEET OUR TEAM

We're accountants who actually like people.

Engaging, personable, and proactive—we're here to prove the stereotypes wrong.

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Kurt J. Rickhoff, EA

Owner

Kurt J. Rickhoff, EA

Owner

Email: kurtr@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9203

Kurt joined Rickhoff & Associates full-time in 1997, though he has been connected to the family business since its founding in 1974. Today, he serves as President of the firm and co-owner alongside his wife, Mindi. Together, they continue the Rickhoff legacy of helping small businesses succeed while building a modern, client-focused firm.

Kurt’s leadership is rooted in his passion for technology and innovation. He ensures the firm stays at the forefront of accounting by adopting tools and resources that allow the team to provide efficient, high-quality client service. His background in banking and securities gives him broad experience advising clients on all aspects of their business operations. In 1998, he earned his Enrolled Agent (EA) designation with the Internal Revenue Service, representing clients at the highest level in tax matters.

Kurt has been a dedicated member of the Professional Association of Small Business Accountants (PASBA) for decades. He served on the PASBA Board twice—first from 2006–2009 and again from 2016–2020, including as PASBA President in 2018–2019. He is a regular presenter at PASBA’s bi-annual meetings and is also invited to speak at national and regional events, including the National Meeting for the Water Quality Association and other organizations and associations.

Under Kurt’s leadership, Rickhoff & Associates has earned numerous recognitions:

  • 2009 PASBA Large Firm of the Year
  • 2020 Small Business Monthly – Best in Value
  • 2016 “100 St. Louis Business Professionals You Should Know”
  • St. Louis Business Journal – Best Places to Work
  • 2025 Small Business Monthly – Best Accountants in St. Louis

Locally, Kurt serves as Treasurer and Director of the Clin-Clair Fire District and is an active member of the Breese Lions Club. He has previously served as a board member for the HSHS St. Joseph’s Foundation and as President of the Albers Elementary School Board.

Beyond the office, Kurt enjoys spending time with his wife, Mindi, their two children, Allison and Carson, and their Goldendoodle, Remi. He is an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and loves to cook—especially grilling, smoking, and experimenting with new recipes (which he sees as more of a guide than a rulebook). Cooking is a shared passion he and Mindi enjoy together, along with their commitment to supporting local small businesses, especially their clients.

Kurt’s leadership philosophy is built on hiring the right people and empowering them to thrive without micromanagement. He is committed to fostering a culture that reflects the firm’s values of fun, teamwork, adaptability, and loyalty, ensuring Rickhoff & Associates remains both a modern workplace and a trusted partner for clients.

Biography
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Melinda R. Rickhoff, CPP

Owner

Melinda R. Rickhoff, CPP

Owner

Email: mindir@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9206

Mindi Rickhoff joined Rickhoff & Associates in August 1998 and serves as President of Payroll Central Inc. She works closely with leadership to support the firm’s overall operations, while also handling internal bookkeeping, HR, and executive administration.

Over the years, Mindi has worn many hats within the organization, including client bookkeeping, full-cycle payroll processing, department management, and payroll tax processing. She earned her Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification in 2008 through Payroll.org. Mindi has been actively involved in several professional associations, including the Professional Association of Small Business Accountants (PASBA), The Payroll Group, and the Independent Payroll Professional Association. She is currently one of the founding board members of O’Fallon Neighbors, an organization dedicated to ensuring every neighbor in the O’Fallon–Shiloh area has access to support and resources when facing financial obstacles. She has also served on the Execupay Licensee Association, Mater Dei Mothers & Friends, and other school committees. Outside of work, Mindi enjoys traveling with her husband Kurt and their adult children, gardening, relaxing by the pool, and spending time on their newly remodeled deck.

Biography
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Allison Rickhoff

Accounting & Tax Director

Allison Rickhoff

Accounting & Tax Director

Email: allisonr@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9230

Allison Rickhoff officially joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2021, though she has been around the family business her entire life. Now serving as Accounting & Tax Director, she leads new client onboarding, prepares tax returns, oversees the accounting team, and drives special projects and process improvements. Her leadership blends deep-rooted familiarity with forward-thinking ideas that help shape the firm’s continued success.

Allison holds a Bachelor’s in Accounting from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and a Master of Business Administration with a focus in Management from the University of Southern Indiana. She currently serves as Treasurer of the Albers Commercial Club and enjoys being active in her local community. Outside of work, Allison loves spending time with her fiancé, Tyler, and their dog, Nelly—especially relaxing on the patio or unwinding with a good TV show. She also enjoys traveling, shopping, and crafting, and finds joy in creative projects and exploring new places.

Biography
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Thomas L. Biggs III, EA

Client Accounting & Tax Manager

Thomas L. Biggs III, EA

Client Accounting & Tax Manager

Email: tomb@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9202

Tom Biggs joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2010 and currently serves as a Client Accounting & Tax Manager. In this role, he meets directly with clients, supervises accounting work, provides consulting services, and prepares both individual and business tax returns. Tom’s niche expertise lies in small business taxation and consulting, where his practical insights and client-focused approach help business owners make informed financial decisions. His long tenure with the firm has been a vital part of its continued growth and success.

Tom earned his Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2006 and became an IRS Enrolled Agent shortly thereafter. He is an active member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents. Outside of the office, Tom enjoys spending time with his wife, Katie, and their two sons, Tommie and Brice. He also coaches youth baseball and takes pride in mentoring his boys and their teammates to be strong student-athletes both on and off the field.

Biography
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Kraig A. Spisak, CPA

Senior Client Accounting & Tax Manager

Kraig A. Spisak, CPA

Senior Client Accounting & Tax Manager

Email: kraigs@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-924-9210

Kraig joined Rickhoff Business in Balance in 2015 and serves as a Client Accounting and Tax Manager. He oversees all aspects of client engagement, including the review of monthly financial statements, forecasting, and planning. With deep experience in both accounting and operational leadership, Kraig brings particular expertise in the restaurant and construction industries, helping clients navigate complex financial needs with clarity and precision.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Saint Louis University and holds his CPA designation. Prior to joining the firm, Kraig spent a decade at a large CPA firm working across tax, audit, and ERP implementation teams, followed by four years as CFO of a construction company. Outside of the office, he enjoys boating and fishing in the summer, playing fantasy sports with family and friends, and cheering on the St. Louis Blues and hockey in general.

Biography
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Mike Renner, EA

Client Accounting & Tax Manager

Mike Renner, EA

Client Accounting and Tax Manager

Email: miker@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9212

Mike joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2005 and currently serves as a Client Accounting and Tax Manager. His responsibilities include tax planning, financial analysis, tax preparation, and consulting with clients across a range of industries. With a strong focus on clarity and efficiency, Mike is especially skilled at assisting clients with QuickBooks Online, managing multiple entities, and helping individuals and businesses better understand their tax situations.

He holds two Bachelor of Science degrees from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville—one in Business Administration Finance and the other in Accountancy. In 2018, he earned his Enrolled Agent (EA) certification from the Internal Revenue Service. Mike is an active member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fairview Heights, Illinois. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children and is a lifelong comic book collector.

Biography
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Amy Boekman

Assistant Client Accounting & Tax Manager

Amy Boeckman

Assistant Client Accounting & Tax Manager

Email: amyb@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9201

Amy Boeckman joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2021 and currently serves as Junior Accounting Manager. Having started with the firm at a young age, Amy has grown through a variety of roles, and her responsibilities have expanded alongside her professional development. Today, she handles a broad range of tasks including bookkeeping, tax planning, and tax preparation. Her prior experience includes both tax and audit internships, and her well-rounded background allows her to support clients across multiple areas of their financial needs. She is currently working toward earning her CPA designation.

Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and a Master of Science in Accountancy with a Concentration in Taxation. She is an active member of her church, St. Augustine’s in Breese, and enjoys staying involved in her local community. Outside of work, Amy enjoys frequenting local spots with good live music. She also loves traveling —especially to national parks and new destinations that offer fresh experiences and scenic views.

Biography
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Tammy Beer

Client Accounting Specialist

Tammy Beer

Client Accounting Specialist

Email: tammyb@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9214

Tammy Beer joined Rickhoff Business in Balance in 2004 and serves as a Staff Accountant. She is responsible for compiling monthly financial statements, filing sales tax returns, and assisting with a range of accounting duties as needed. With particular expertise in working with restaurants and multi-location businesses, Tammy brings consistency, accuracy, and deep industry knowledge to her role. Her long tenure has made her a true backbone of the firm, and her dedication has played a key role in its ongoing success and growth.

Tammy earned her Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and is a Certified QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor. Outside of work, she enjoys cheering on her kids at their activities, ATV riding, and relaxing at home with her family. Her down-to-earth energy and commitment—both professionally and personally—make her a valued member of the team.

Biography
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Rachel Pettis

Client Accounting Specialist

Rachel Pettis

Client Accounting Specialist

Email: rachelp@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9204

Rachel joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2019 and serves as a Staff Accountant. Her responsibilities include working closely with clients to prepare monthly financial statements, as well as handling sales and payroll tax return filings. With a steady and client-focused approach, Rachel plays a key role in ensuring accurate reporting and ongoing support for businesses across various industries.

She holds an Associate Degree in Accounting from Southwestern Illinois College and is a Certified Bookkeeper. Outside of the office, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family, taking scenic drives, and vacationing in the mountains. Her calm demeanor and commitment to client service make her a valued member of the Rickhoff team.

Biography
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Sarah Mueller

Client Accounting Specialist

Sarah Mueller

Client Accounting Specialist

Email: sarahm@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9209

Sarah joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2021 and serves as an Accounting Facilitator and Staff Accountant. Her day-to-day responsibilities include monthly bookkeeping for clients, onboarding new clients, training incoming staff, and keeping the firm’s processes and software knowledge up to date. Sarah brings an outgoing and positive attitude to her work, with a strong focus on teamwork, innovation, and continuous learning to support both her colleagues and clients.

She holds an Associate Degree in Accountancy from Illinois Central College. Outside of the office, Sarah is actively involved at Holy Trinity Catholic Church and School, where she also serves as Treasurer of the Parents & Friends organization. Life beyond work keeps her busy and fulfilled with her husband, Joe, their two children, Olivia and Benjamin, and their dog, Bailey. Whether she’s cheering from the sidelines, volunteering in her community, or enjoying a little shopping and reality TV, Sarah finds joy in both the everyday moments and the occasional margarita at the end of a long week.

Biography
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Drew Pollmann

Client Accounting Specialist

Drew Pollmann

Client Accounting Specialist

Email: drewp@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9205

Drew joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2025 and serves as a Client Accounting Specialist. In his role, he assists clients with bookkeeping and the preparation of monthly financial statements. With prior experience in both the banking and government sectors, Drew brings a thoughtful and detail-oriented approach to client service and financial organization.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and previously worked at 1NB Bank as well as the Internal Revenue Service, gaining a broad foundation in both private and public financial systems. Drew brings a calm, consistent demeanor to everything he does, making him a dependable and steady presence for both clients and colleagues. Outside of work, he enjoys bowling—regularly participating in local leagues—along with hunting, fishing, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Biography
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Alyssia Kommenich

Client Accounting Specialist

Alyssia Kommenich

Client Accounting Specialist

Email: alyssiak@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9213

Alyssia Kommenich joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2025 and serves as a Staff Accountant. Her primary responsibility is managing bookkeeping for clients, ensuring financial records are accurate, timely, and well-organized. Alyssia brings a detail-oriented approach to her role, supporting the firm’s mission to provide reliable and personalized accounting services.

She is currently pursuing her Associate of Applied Science in Accounting at Southwestern Illinois College, with an expected graduation date of May 2026. Outside of work and studies, Alyssia enjoys sewing, crafting, reading, and light hiking. She has a creative eye for nature and architecture photography and loves exploring new local coffee shops. Her curiosity and creativity bring a fresh perspective both inside and outside the office.

Biography
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Vicky Bommer

Office Manager

Vicky Bommer

Office Manager

Email: vickyb@rickhoff.com
Phone: 314-590-1025

Vicky Bommer joined Rickhoff Business in Balance in 2021 and serves as the Office Manager of the Chesterfield, MO location. With over 38 years of prior experience at Hochschild, Bloom & Company (now Sikich), Vicky brings a deep understanding of office administration and client service. She manages the daily operations of the Chesterfield office, providing direct support to clients and assisting the Rickhoff team with administrative coordination to ensure a smooth, efficient workflow. Her ability to anticipate needs and keep things running behind the scenes plays a vital role in the firm’s success.

Vicky has specialized experience as a Tax Season Administrator and is skilled in using the Qount platform to support data management, client coordination, and process optimization during peak periods. She is a graduate of Hickey College and takes pride in creating a welcoming and well-organized office environment. Outside of work, Vicky enjoys spending time with family and friends, walking, reading, and relaxing with scrapbooking and card-making projects.

Biography
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Diane Luitjohan

Office Administrator

Diane Luitjohan

Office Administrator

Email: dianel@rickhoff.com
Phone: 618-624-9208

Diane Luitjohan joined Rickhoff Business In Balance in 2024 and serves as the Office Administrator for the O’Fallon, IL office. In her role, she supports the entire team by managing office operations, greeting clients and visitors, handling vendor communications, organizing records, answering emails and phone calls, and helping coordinate meetings and events. Diane’s friendly presence and proactive approach ensure that the office runs smoothly and that clients feel welcomed and well cared for.

Naturally organized and people-oriented, Diane thrives in collaborative environments where she can help bring structure and positivity to daily tasks and team activities. She is quick to lend a hand, whether solving a problem or helping a colleague reach a goal. Outside of work, Diane serves as Secretary of Whispering Pines of Clinton County. She enjoys spending quality time with family and friends—especially her grandchildren—cheering them on at their activities. She also loves being outdoors, soaking up the sunshine, and traveling whenever she can.

Biography
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April Inman

Accounts Payable Lead

April Inman

Accounts Payable Lead

Email: aprili@rickhoff.com
Phone: 314-590-1026

April Inman joined Rickhoff Business in Balance in 2024 and serves as an Accounts Payable Specialist. She manages accounts payable for a variety of clients, working closely with both internal team members and client contacts to ensure bills are processed accurately and vendors are paid on time. With a background in food service, April brings a special passion for supporting restaurant clients and is known for streamlining disorganized records and maintaining reliable, timely workflows.

April is a QuickBooks Online Certified Advanced ProAdvisor and brings a detail-focused, service-minded approach to her role. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, crafting, cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, and spending time with her family while exploring the city. April is also passionate about animal welfare and enjoys volunteering with local organizations. Her well-rounded interests and warm personality make her a great fit for both clients and the team.

Biography

Better Together: Accounting, Tax, and Payroll

Meet the Rickhoff Family of Businesses

Rickhoff Business in Balance is the accounting and advisory side. Payroll Central is our dedicated payroll company. They're separately branded but commonly owned, which means when you work with us, you get both, fully integrated, with one team accountable for all of it.

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Learn More About Payroll Central

Our Values

We Actually enjoy this work

Here’s What That Means for You

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Fun

You'll actually look forward to your monthly call. We keep things real, skip the jargon, and make this easier than you'd expect.

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Team

Your dedicated team knows your business. Same people, every month. No repeating yourself.

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Adaptable

Tax law changes. Your business changes. We stay ahead of both and reach out before it affects you.

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Loyal

Many of our clients have been with us 10, 15, even 20+ years. We're in it for the long haul.

If You're Ready to Stop Guessing, Let's Talk

If you're tired of financial surprises or only hearing from
your accountant in April, let's have a conversation.

Book a Free Call