IRS continues to send notices to collect back tax to increased number of taxpayers
As the IRS continues to collect back-tax owed in an effort to decrease the tax gap, more and more taxpayers are receiving letters that could seem intimidating. Their reactions are varied, from ignoring the letter to panic.
As a result, there has also been an increase in taxpayers seeking help from their tax professional to address their financial situation. However, only tax preparers with a designation can represent their clients before the IRS and handle correspondence for them.
Looking ahead at the need for more credentialed preparers to serve their clients before the IRS, The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is hosting a free webinar on June 5 that explains the distinctions between two of the more common designations a preparer can earn – the enrolled agent (EA) designation and the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) – Record of Completion.
“Based on the changing landscape of the tax industry and tax preparation, and NATP’s dedication to ensuring all preparers have the education and training they need to serve their clients with excellence, we’re proud to offer opportunities like this to all professionals, whether they are a member or not,” said NATP CEO Scott Artman, CPA, CGMA.
In addition to explaining the differences between each designation, the webinar will also review requirements to maintain each designation and help tax pros determine which designation best aligns with their career goals.
"The current climate underscores the critical importance of having a professional designation in the tax industry," Artman said. "Not only does it provide credibility and expertise, but it also opens doors to new opportunities, particularly in serving clients facing IRS notices. As technology continues to evolve, having a recognized designation ensures that tax preparers remain relevant and resilient in the face of uncertainty."
The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is the largest nonprofit organization that works exclusively for tax professionals. We serve members through education, advocacy and community, providing the tools they need to navigate the tax code and the insights the media can trust.
Looking for a tax expert? Tom O’Saben, EA, director of tax content and government relations at NATP, is available for phone or video interviews to discuss federal tax topics, including tax law change and its implications, taxpayer issues, tax preparer regulation and more. To schedule an interview with O’Saben, contact [email protected] or [email protected].