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What is an Enrolled Agent?
An Enrolled Agent (EA)Â is a tax professional authorized by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax issues, including audits, collections, and appeals. Here's a detailed description of what an EA does when representing a client before the IRS:
Expertise and Authorization
Specialization in Taxation: Enrolled Agents specialize in taxation and have comprehensive knowledge of the tax code, regulations, and procedures. They are required to pass a rigorous three-part Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) that covers individual and business tax returns, as well as IRS representation.
Government Authorization: EAs are the only tax professionals licensed by the U.S. government. This distinguishes them from Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and attorneys, who are licensed by state boards.
What does Representation look like?
When an Enrolled Agent (EA) represents a client before the IRS, the process involves several detailed steps and activities, ensuring the client’s tax issues are managed efficiently and effectively. Here’s an in-depth look at what representation by an EA typically involves:
Initial Consultation and Assessment
The EA will review any IRS correspondence, audit notices, past tax returns, and explain the audit process to the client. The client signs a Power of Attorney, authorizing the EA to act on their behalf.
Strategizing
The EA will review the areas of the return under scrutiny and develops a strategy to address the IRS's concerns.
Document Review and Submission
The EA will help the client gather any documents, review the requested documents, ensuring they are complete and accurate, and submits them to the IRS.
Communication with the IRS
The EA handles all communications with the IRS auditor, including responding to questions, clarifying discrepancies, and negotiating findings. This can involve multiple meetings or correspondences.
Audit Defense
If the IRS proposes adjustments, the EA defends the original return by presenting evidence, citing tax laws, and arguing the client’s case.
Appeals and Disputes
If the client disagrees with an IRS decision, the EA can file an appeal. The EA represents the client in hearings, presenting arguments and negotiating settlements.
Continuous Support
The EA maintains regular communication with the client, updating them with the case status. The EA may conduct annual reviews of the client's tax situation to ensure continued compliance.
In essence, representation by an Enrolled Agent involves a comprehensive and strategic approach to managing a client's interactions with the IRS. EAs provide expert guidance, defend the client’s interests, and work towards achieving the most favorable outcomes possible in various tax-related matters.
Advantages of Hiring an EA
Expert Negotiators: EAs are skilled negotiators who can effectively communicate with IRS officials, potentially leading to better outcomes for clients.
Cost-Effective: Typically, EAs offer more affordable services compared to tax attorneys, while providing specialized tax expertise.
Comprehensive Services: EAs can handle a wide range of tax-related issues, providing a one-stop solution for clients dealing with complex tax matters.
Package pricing available for additional services including: tax planning, tax resolution, and audit representation