Debra Chastain, CPA
CO-CREATE | CO-DEVELOP | DELIVER
A Houston-based firm of CPAs and professional advisors co-developing solutions with our clients at every stage of the business life cycle.

Debra has over 25 years of experience in the area of taxation, spending the majority of that time in public accounting. Her experience includes a broad exposure to a variety of tax areas, serving business clients in energy-related industries, manufacturing and construction industries, as well as real estate development and investment. Having worked for large CPA firms, as well as a small family-operated CPA firm, Debra has worked with privately held and publicly traded companies. She has worked with middle market clients, as well as family-owned and -operated businesses, routinely helping startup businesses with federal and state tax issues and tax filing requirements. In addition, Debra works with accountants to properly reflect taxes on financial statements for both small and middle market companies.
Areas of specialization include corporate and partnership tax compliance and consulting, as well as financial reporting for taxes under ASC 740 and FIN 48 reporting.
Industries Served:
- Energy Services
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Real Estate Development & Investments
Designations:
CPA, Certified Public Accountant
Experience:
Pannell Kerr Forster of Texas, P.C., Houston, TX
Manager
Deloitte Tax, Houston, TX
Manager
Evans & Chastain, LLP, Houston, TX
Manager
KPMG, Houston, TX
Sr. Manager
Enron Oil & Gas, Houston, TX
Tax Manager
Deloitte & Touche, Houston, TX
Sr. Manager
Education:
University of Houston, Houston, TX
Master of Accountancy – Taxation
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL
Bachelor of Science – Business
Production Operations Management
Associations:
- American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
- Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants – Houston Chapter
- Lifetime Member of Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Why did you choose to be a CPA and/or advisor?
I grew up in a family business and was always good with numbers.
What do you like best about helping clients?
I witnessed the struggles a family business can go through, and it gives me satisfaction to help others maneuver the hurdles of the tax code.
What energizes you about working at PKF Texas?
PKF Texas clients genuinely appreciate the help and advice we provide, and positive energy is contagious.
Where are you from?
DuQuoin, Illinois, which is a small town in Southern Illinois, near the border of Kentucky.
What's your favorite sport to follow?
Traditionally my favorite sport to follow is baseball, so watching the Astros win the World Series this year was awesome. My youngest daughter is playing college basketball, so naturally, I am a fan.
Do you own any pets?
I am a dog lover and currently have two dogs, Sadie and Hatchi. My home would not be complete without a dog.
What's your favorite vacation destination?
I love vacationing at the beach, and my most recent jaunt was to Gulf Shores, Alabama. Destin is great as well but is much more crowded.
Who was/is the most influential person in your life?
My father was the most influential person in my life. He taught me to have a strong work ethic but to take the time to enjoy life.