Eric Barnett, CPA, CFP^®

Eric joined Smith Salley in 2026 as a Tax Advisor. Eric’s focus is to help clients preserve and grow their wealth through a holistic, tax-integrated approach — partnering closely with Smith Salley’s financial advisors to align tax and financial planning. Eric leads the firm’s tax return preparation practice.

Prior to joining Smith Salley, Eric spent over 8 years at Aprio, where he advised individuals and business owners on tax compliance and planning. Eric holds the CPA designation and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^TM professional. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Minnesota-Crookston and his Master of Accountancy (MaCC) from Gardner-Webb University.

Eric lives in Mount Airy, NC with his wife, two kids, and four dogs.