Selecting an EA

Why should I consider an EA who is a Member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) and the California Society of Enrolled Agents (CSEA)?

• NAEA is the organization of and for EAs. The principal concern of the Association and its Members is honest, intelligent and ethical representation of the financial position of taxpayers before tax agencies. Members of NAEA and CSEA are required to complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing professional education each year in the interpretation, application and administration of federal and state tax laws in order to maintain membership in the organization. This requirement surpasses the IRS' required minimum of 16 hours per year (and 72 hours every three years) in federal tax only.

When selecting an EA, consider the following:

• Check the license status with the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) at (313) 234-1280 or email opr@irs.gov. Make sure the license is current and inquire whether there have been any disciplinary actions against the EA.
  
  
• Ask if the EA is a Member of the California Society of Enrolled Agents (CSEA).
  
  
• Ask how long the Enrolled Agent has been licensed.
  
  
• Ask if the EA is current with their continuing professional education (CPE).
  
  
• Interview the prospective EA either by telephone or in person. Compare their experience and expertise with your needs.
  
  
• Ask about the office hours of the EA; determine whether the office is open year-round; inquire what other services the EA offers; inquire how the EA communicates with clients (website, email, phone, or fax), and ask whether the EA is available to take phone or email inquires.
  
  
• Before any work is done by the EA, receive an engagement letter detailing the responsibilities expected of you and the EA, the work to be performed for you, and who will be performing the work.

What EAs Charge
EAs normally base their fees on the time required to perform the services you request. Fees depend on the type of services you require, the prevailing costs in the community, the EA's level of expertise and the complexity of your work.

Get the Most Value out of a EA's Service
When it comes to working with a Enrolled Agent, you are in control. To get the most value from a EA's services:

• Discuss your goals with your EA. What do you want the EA to do for you? Have a list of questions and a clear idea of what you want to accomplish.
  
  
• Before you meet with an EA, gather all the documents and information you think you may need, such as past tax returns, financial statements for a business and investment statements. Keep good records and prepare routine work ahead of time.
  
  
• Keep your EA informed of changes in your personal and professional life. A recent marriage or divorce, the birth of a child, real estate purchase, business acquisition, a generous bonus or retirement can all have a significant impact on your tax liability.
  

How can I find an EA?
To locate an EA in California, click on this Find an Enrolled Agent link. If you prefer, call the California Society of Enrolled Agents at (800) 829-7765 (that is 800-TAXPRO5). You may also call the National Association of Enrolled Agents referral service at (800) 424-4339 for names and addresses of Members located in your area.