Wednesday, April 26, 2017

What The Enrolled Tax Agent Exam Is And Why It Matters

By Timothy Morgan


When people get a letter from the Internal Revenue Service, they know it won't be good news. Even though they religiously file their returns on time, and pay any amount owed, they can still feel like they have somehow made a serious mistake. A lot of individuals, with one job and limited assets, do their own taxes online. Others prefer to enlist the services of one of the commercial preparers they see advertised. Most of these individuals will never need the specialized services of a professional who has passed the enrolled tax agent exam.

It is more often corporations, estates, trusts, partnerships, and individuals with multiple and complicated assets who employ a specialized professional to represent them with the IRS. Along with accountants and attorneys, these agents are the only ones able to negotiate with the IRS on their client's behalf. They have the education, experience and expertise to handle complex transactions and argue taxation laws and regulations in front of government officials. Unlike some accountants and lawyers people hire to represent them, these agents don't handle anything but taxes.

Agents who specialize in taxes make significantly more money, and often have more benefits, that those without the designation. Individuals interested in working toward such a designation need to know how long it takes and what it involves. Anyone who prepares taxes professionally must have a preparer identification number. To receive an enrollment designation, applicants must take and pass a three part examination. Once they have successfully completed the test, the IRS will check to make sure they do not have any unpaid taxes or returns outstanding.

Individual representation is the first part of the test. Applicants must demonstrate skill in regard to the client's personal information, sources of income, itemized deductions, income source, and credits. They will have to provide qualifying answers regarding information given to clients pertaining to personal financial matters.

The second portion concerns businesses. Agents must have a thorough understanding of the different types of businesses entities, such as partnerships and S corporations, and how they work. They must be able to analyze financial records and advise those with farming operations.

The last portion concerns procedures and fair practices. Applicants are tested on their knowledge regarding representing their clients before IRS officials. They must understand how to prepare clients for meetings and when it is appropriate to obtain power of attorney or limited power of attorney. Knowledge of fines and penalties is also tested.

Anyone who passes a portion of the test can retake the other parts. They have two years to satisfactorily complete the whole examination. Testing lasts about four hours per section, and books are not permitted. All agents are bound by a code of professional conduct and ethics and the provisions of the Treasury Department.

Individuals and businesses with multiple assets may have complicated taxation structures. They often turn to specialized agents. They feel confident they are getting the most competent and informed representation possible.




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