To Begin
We ask only that you provide your Zip Code and type of return so that we can match
you with the closest Tax Professional who specializes in your needs. You can then
fully review their information before deciding to proceed. Only after you have fully
reviewed the information and have decided to engage the Tax Professional do you
provide any additional information and only then for the purpose o f preparing your
tax returns.
Privacy
Your personal information is subject to the highest of privacy standards. This website
maintains the latest security measures to insure that your personal information
is available only to yourself and the tax professional that you select. We comply
with the Federal Privacy Act in all respects and exceed it in many areas. No information
is released to any third parties or used for any other purpose whatsoever without
your expressed written consent. We do no third party marketing.
Our Mission
My name is Hugh W. Pendleton. I have been a CPA since 1982 and have helped thousands
of people with their tax issues during those 30 years. I have seen many people who
used the wrong Tax Professionals for their needs and had trouble finding the right
professional. If you need a doctor you can easily determine their area of specialty
but it is not so easy with Tax Professionals. I have created this service to help
you select an appropriate Tax Professional for your needs.
Professional Qualifications - CPA
CPA’s are college educated accountants who have passed one of the most rigorous
professional examinations in the nation. This national three day exam covers all
aspects of accounting and income tax. They generally complete a two year internship
before becoming certified and are then required to maintain at least 40 hours per
year of continuing professional education, although most do more than this. Thus
you can be assured that your CPA will be up to date on the latest tax and accounting
issues.
Professional Qualifications - Enrolled Agents(EA)
Enrolled Agents (EA’s) have completed the required education as set forth by the Internal Revenue Service and have passed a very competitive tax knowledge exam administered by the Internal Revenue Service. Typically only about 5% of E.A candidates pass this exam on the first attempt. EA’s are then subject to the similar requirements for continuing professional education as CPA’s.
Professional Qualifications - Tax Attorneys
Tax Attorneys have either a JD or LLB degree in addition to their bachelor degree. They have passed the Bar examination and completed other rigorous standards as set forth by the state in which they practice. In addition, Tax Attorneys are specialized in income tax law. Tax Attorneys are registered to practice in front of the IRS and Tax Court. Many Tax Attorneys are qualified to practice before the Supreme Court.
Professional Qualifications - Bookkeepers
Bookkeepers are usually non-degreed individuals who have learned by doing. Typically, bookkeepers work for CPA’s or EA’s. Sometimes bookkeepers have associates degrees or have completed some professional education or certification such as the Quickbooks certifications. Unless they have become EA’s they are not qualified to practice before the IRS. Therefore we only include bookkeeping services as offered by CPA’s or EA’s where the bookkeeper is properly supervised.
Local
We attempt to match you with local Tax Professionals whenever possible. Although
virtually all of the work can be accomplished securely over the internet we recognize
that there are times when nothing will do but a face to face meeting. You will know
who is responsible for your tax work and will always have phone and e-mail connections
for your questions. We recommend that you do as much as possible over the internet
as this keeps costs low for both you and your Tax Professional.