Our Team

John L. Hoffmann graduated from Stockton State College in 1992, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business. Following graduation John became a licensed CPA and worked in internal auditing and accounting for Harrah's Casino. In 1995 John left Harrah's taking his professionalism and experience to focus on public accounting.​ After two years as a staff accountant for local firms, he went into practice for himself and opened his own firm in 1997, in his native town of Ventnor, NJ. John moved his office from Ventnor to Northfield in 2007, which has been home for Independence Financial Services ever since. Additionally John is apart of the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

John joined the Independence Financial Services team in 2017, and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the state of New Jersey. With a keen proficiency in a variety of accounting software and integrated applications, he consistently excels in aiding individual clients and small businesses to streamline their financial management processes. A significant aspect of John's expertise lies in his adept handling of New Jersey tax laws, where he offers valuable assistance in dealing with sales tax and related issues. A double major in finance and accounting from Rutgers University, Camden, John combines academic excellence with practical experience. Beyond his work, John further contributes to the world of finance by serving as an adjunct accounting professor at Atlantic Cape Community College. His multifaceted life experiences notably feature his honorable service as a firefighter on the USS Carl Vinson during his tenure with the US Navy. Currently, John and his cherished family have made their home in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey.

Victoria Chianese (nee Hoffmann) is a certified Enrolled Agent (EA) with over ten years of tax experience. She joined Independence Financial Services in 2014, where she works alongside her father and brother, both CPAs. Growing up in a family business has given Victoria a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Her extensive knowledge of tax law has saved taxpayers thousands of dollars. She specializes in tax preparation, consultation, and IRS representation, helping individuals and businesses navigate complex tax issues. Victoria resides in Absecon with her family.

Jean graduated from Stockton University in May of 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. She has worked in the areas of auditing and accounting in the casino industry since November of 1991. Prior to joining Independence Financial Services in January of 2010, she worked as a tax preparer for five years, including for H & R Block. A native of Northern Jersey, she currently lives in Egg Harbor Township. Jean enjoys spending time with her family, watching the Giants and reading.

After joining Independence Financial Services in the summer of 2022 Melissa immediately took on a very important role for IFS as a staff accountant. Melissa attended Stockton University and is continuing to work towards passing the CPA exam. This will allow Melissa to take on an even bigger role within our firm. Additionally, she is proficient in both English and Spanish, which enables her to assist clients whose primary language is Spanish with any challenge they might encounter. Melissa has previous work experience doing accounting work for a construction firm and some of her everyday tasks here include creating financial statements, filing quarterly sales tax, keeping our monthly clients compliant with changes to tax laws, and so much more!

Olivia earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Stockton University in 2021. She joined Independence Financial Services in June 2022 and became an IRS Enrolled Agent in 2024. As an Enrolled Agent, Olivia specializes in individual tax preparation and IRS problem resolution. She is committed to providing personalized, tax-efficient solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. With a strong dedication to staying current on the latest tax regulations, Olivia ensures that her clients receive accurate, timely, and expert guidance.