An IRS Enrolled Agent is a tax professional who is federally licensed to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). EAs have demonstrated expertise in taxation by passing a rigorous examination or meeting specific IRS experience requirements.

Enrolled Agents can provide a wide range of tax-related services, including tax preparation, tax planning, representing taxpayers in IRS audits, appeals, and collections matters, as well as providing general tax advice and guidance.

Unlike other tax professionals, such as Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) or tax attorneys, Enrolled Agents specialize exclusively in taxation matters and are authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS in all 50 states. They focus solely on tax issues and do not typically offer services in other areas of accounting or law.

Hiring an IRS Enrolled Agent can provide several benefits, including expertise in tax matters, representation before the IRS, assistance with complex tax situations, and peace of mind knowing that your tax affairs are in capable hands.

You can verify the credentials of an IRS Enrolled Agent by checking the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications or by contacting the IRS directly. Enrolled Agents are issued a unique enrollment number by the IRS, which can be used to confirm their status.

IRS Enrolled Agents are required to adhere to strict ethical standards set forth by the IRS. These standards include maintaining confidentiality, providing accurate and honest advice, avoiding conflicts of interest, and upholding the rights of taxpayers.

Yes, one of the primary roles of an IRS Enrolled Agent is to represent taxpayers during IRS audits. They can assist you in preparing for the audit, gathering necessary documentation, communicating with the IRS on your behalf, and advocating for your rights throughout the audit process.

While Enrolled Agents can represent taxpayers before the IRS in administrative proceedings, such as audits and appeals, they are not authorized to represent clients in federal court. Tax attorneys are typically required for legal representation in court cases involving tax matters.

IRS Enrolled Agents are required to renew their enrollment every three years. This renewal process includes completing continuing education requirements to ensure that EAs remain current on changes in tax laws and regulations.

While IRS Enrolled Agents specialize in federal tax matters, many EAs also have expertise in state tax issues and can provide assistance with state tax filings, audits, and other state-specific tax matters. However, it's essential to verify with the EA their level of expertise in state taxation.