Frequently Asked Questions

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My professional designation is, Enrolled Agent, or simply, EA.

It is not unusual for people to ask, "What exactly is an EA," or, "how is an EA qualified to help me?" To help answer those questions, let me briefly discuss what it takes to become and EA, and how an EA compares to other professionals in the field.

Succinctly, an EA is a federally licensed tax professional. There are three kinds of professionals who can represent a taxpayer before the Internal Revenue Service. These professionals are Attorneys, Certified Public Accountants, and Enrolled Agents. EAs are unique in that they are licensed by the US Treasury Department through the Internal Revenue Service, whereas Attorneys and CPAs are licensed by the State in which they practice. This means as an EA, I can practice, unrestricted, anywhere in the country.

Then, how does one become an EA? The designation is earned by passing a comprehensive examination covering all aspects of federal taxation. A thorough background screening is then performed by the Treasury Department. And three years of tax returns are audited by the IRS. So, as you can see, this is a very detailed process that narrows down only the most serious candidates.

In addition, EAs are required to abide by strict regulations established by the Department of Treasury. These regulations include rules of conduct and a code of ethics.

So my licensing, training, and ongoing education requirements have prepared me to be well versed in most areas of taxation, including corporate, estate, individual, partnership and federal, local and state taxes. The services I provide include:

  • Tax return preparation

  • Representation before the IRS, including Audits, Collections, and Appeals

  • Tax and financial planning

  • Business and investment planning

  • Retirement planning

  • Estate planning

Because of their expertise in taxation, Enrolled Agents are well-suited to provide tax planning services. The best way to enhance your tax position is with careful planning – to ensure you will be prepared when tax time rolls around. I offer a full range of planning services including, but not limited to:

  • Individual Tax Planning

  • Business Tax Planning

  • Business Organization

  • Rental Properties

  • Foreclosures and Repossessions

  • Retirement

  • Investments

  • Sales and Exchanges

  • Pension Plans

  • Education Planning

  • Finance & Refinance Planning

  • Home Purchase and Sale Planning

I am here for you twelve months a year, not just during tax season. Whether you have a simple tax question, need advice on the tax implications of a business decision, or want clarification on a government notice, feel free to give me a call.

I maintain a policy of the strictest confidence concerning my clients’ affairs. You can rest assured that no one will learn about your business or tax status – even relatives, associates or friends who might have referred you to me.

Go ahead and learn more about me and how I may help you by continuing to browse this site. I am here year round, not just during the tax season. So if you have a question, need advice, or want clarification on a government notice, feel free to contact me by phone at (650) 219-2774, or email at ricoea@outlook.com. I look forward to hearing from you!