Chris Hardman
For more than 30 years, Chris has been devoted to helping families use their wealth to create lasting, positive legacies while providing security for future generations. With his guidance, clients can secure their long-range financial goals and confidently follow their passions. Since joining Hellam Varon in 2014, Chris has been a key member of our fiduciary services group. He advises on a broad range of tax issues, specializing in wealth transfer, complex tax compliance, and consulting on issues ranging from business succession to estate and trust administration. He is the group’s primary technical expert in trust and estate matters.
Chris’ diverse professional background gives him a unique perspective on his work. His experience extends from financial planning and life insurance to legal work, and from self-employment to the Big 4 CPA firms. He embraces a comprehensive, forward-thinking approach and genuinely cares about the success of his clients.
When Chris is not taking care of his clients, he can be found at home enjoying time with his wife. Now that his two children are growing up and flying the nest, he has more time to enjoy the great outdoors and especially loves fishing in our local lakes, rivers, and along the coast. Chris and his wife, Linda, are passionate about college sports, particularly their alma mater, UCLA. A self-proclaimed foodie, he views cooking as his artistic outlet. Chris and the family spend much of their free time sampling cuisines from around the world and looking for the latest “hidden gem” of a restaurant.
It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.” —John Wooden
Education
University of California Los Angeles
B.A. in Economics
Golden Gate University
Master of Taxation
Certifications
Certified Public Accountant
Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP)
Professional Associations
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants
Seattle Estate Planning Council
East King County Estate Planning Council
Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP)
Practice Emphasis
Community Activities
STEP Seattle-Board Member