Christopher Buckliew, CPA
“Taxes can be overwhelming and a source of anxiety for many people. I enjoy helping clients navigate complex tax laws and uncover savings. I take pride in being someone clients can count on during stressful times, knowing that I have their best interests at heart.”
About Chris
Chris provides strategic tax and business guidance to individuals and closely held businesses across multiple states. He takes pride in developing lasting relationships with clients—serving not just as a tax preparer, but as a trusted advisor who helps them anticipate challenges, uncover opportunities, and make confident financial decisions year-round.
Known for his practical approach and attention to detail, Chris works closely with business owners to design proactive tax strategies that align with both their professional goals and personal priorities. His focus is on delivering clarity, reducing surprises, and helping clients keep more of what they’ve worked hard to earn.
Academic Background
Chris is a graduate of Clemson University, where he earned dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Financial Management. He went on to earn his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation and is an alumnus of the South Carolina CPA Leadership Institute, Class of 2014—a program recognizing emerging leaders within the profession.
Professional Background
Before joining Zion & Company, Chris built a well-rounded foundation in both public and state taxation. He began his career with the South Carolina Department of Revenue, where he conducted audits of individual income and sales and use tax, gaining firsthand insight into how tax authorities operate and what triggers their attention. He later transitioned into public accounting, working with a variety of closely held and multi-state pass-through entities. That experience gave him a deep appreciation for the complex challenges small business owners face and the opportunities that thoughtful planning can unlock.
For more than a decade at Zion & Company, Chris has enjoyed taking a more hands-on role with clients—getting to know them personally, understanding their goals, and providing proactive, practical tax advice that helps them plan ahead rather than react after the fact. He’s passionate about building long-term relationships and helping business owners make confident, informed decisions about their financial future.
Personal Background
Outside the office, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife, Sarah, and their two children, Benjamin and Charlotte. When the weather’s warm, you’ll often find the family out on Lake Murray, skiing, tubing, and soaking up the sunshine—or relaxing together on trips to the beach. A lifelong sports fan, Chris rarely misses a chance to cheer on his beloved Clemson Tigers. He also enjoys a round of golf whenever he can find time to hit the course.