Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Rep. Charles Boustany (R-La.) introduced a bill on Tuesday to ensure individuals, families and businesses have access to trained specialists to assist them in filing their taxes.
Enrolled Agents are tax specialists certified by the Department of Treasury who have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service. Despite having exclusive federal credentials, some states prohibit Enrolled Agents from using their credential when representing taxpayers or advertising for potential clients.
The Enrolled Agents Credential Act would remove those state barriers.
“Our antiquated tax code is a burden on Ohio families and businesses and oftentimes requires them to seek professional assistance to pore over the complex paperwork,” Portman said. “This common-sense measure has no cost and will protect taxpayers and consumers by ensuring that those in need of help are able to receive quality care from qualified professionals.”
All Enrolled Agents specialize in taxation. To become one of the nation’s 47,000 Enrolled Agents, individuals must pass a comprehensive tax code examination or have extensive experience interpreting the tax code as a former IRS employee. Enrolled Agents must also complete continuing education classes to stay current on tax changes.
“Families and businesses in South Louisiana rely on tax professionals to navigate them through the federal government’s outdated and complex tax code,” Boustany said. “Allowing qualified professionals to highlight their credentials will not only lead to taxpayers being served more efficiently, it provides an added resource for Americans to utilize while paying taxes.”