What’s The Difference Between A Los Angele Tax Attorney And CPA?
- September 14, 2019
- Posted by: asal
- Category: Tax Resolution
When you need help with tax matters, your two best bets are a Los Angeles tax attorney or CPA. However, what’s the difference between a tax attorney and a CPA? Tax season can be hard for individuals and businesses. You might have tax debts that you’ve let add up. Whatever your tax matter may be, tax attorneys and CPAs can help in their way. Knowing which professionals with whom you should work depends on your unique needs and goals. The status of your IRS case can also determine whether you work with a Los Angeles tax attorney or CPA. Both tax attorneys and CPAs are tax resolution specialists in their own right. Your specific tax case will determine whether you work with a CPA or Los Angeles tax attorney. Read on to learn who might be the best tax resolution professional for your situation.
What is a Certified Public Accountant?
Before we get into whether you should work with a CPA or not, let’s talk about what a CPA does. CPAs have five-year business degrees and at least 150 hours of education. Additionally, CPAs also pass an intensive CPA exam and complete at least 120 hours of continuing education every three years. A CPA is not the professional you see at your average tax preparation shop. CPAs are employees who have approximately 60 to 80 hours of training. Also, a CPA is much more knowledgeable and experienced in tax preparation.
When Do I Hire A CPA?
You may need to hire a CPA if you have complicated tax issues. For example, you will benefit from a CPA if you:
- Own a business
- Are divorced
- Have children
- Alternatively, have investments with a high net worth
The more money you have coming in and out, the more a CPA can benefit you during tax season. CPAs understand how to follow federal laws while still minimizing your tax liability and maximizing benefits. If you want an ongoing tax professional, hire a CPA. Returning to the same CPA year after year can also make for a more straightforward tax process. A CPA can help you come up with a long-term tax plan and help you stick to it. Additionally, a CPA can also help you with:
- Monthly and annual accounting services
- Paying quarterly taxes
- Creating a financial plan
- Undergoing audits
What Does a Los Angeles Tax Attorney Do?
A tax attorney is different from a CPA; however, they both help taxpayers. Los Angeles tax attorneys are legal professionals with law degrees. A tax attorney has passed the state bar exam and specializes in the legal side of tax preparation. Both CPAs and tax attorneys can represent you when dealing with the IRS. However, if you’re involved in trouble with tax authorities, a tax attorney is the best to serve you. If you’re facing liens and levies, or owe thousands of dollars, you want to work with a tax attorney. A Los Angeles tax attorney is a type of lawyer who specializes in tax law. Tax attorneys are equipped to handle legal matters, such as:
- Settling back taxes
- Filing back taxes
- Stopping wage garnishment
- Releasing liens and levies
- Compromising with the IRS
If you’re having tax trouble, go to a tax attorney for assistance.
What Types Of Tax Attorneys Are There?
Many types of Los Angeles tax attorneys exist. Some tax attorneys specialize in trusts and estates, while others don’t. However, one thing most tax attorneys have in common is experience in tax controversy and dispute resolution. Los Angeles tax attorneys go through a series of education and training to negotiate with the IRS. A tax attorney can represent you during IRS proceedings.
How Do I Choose The Right Tax Help?
If you’re deciding whether to hire a tax attorney or CPA, you should consider your tax matter. If you have a complicated tax situation and want to minimize liability, hire a CPA. Alternatively, if you’re having trouble with the IRS, hire a tax attorney. A Los Angeles tax attorney can help if you’re receiving debt collection notices from the IRS, too. If you hire a CPA to save money but need a tax attorney, you can end up in more IRS trouble.
You may need the help of a tax attorney if your situation involves tax agents or revenue officers. If you have an IRS Revenue Officer on your case, you are at risk for a levy on your bank accounts or wages. In general, if you have a serious tax issue, go to a Los Angeles tax attorney, not a CPA.
Tax Attorneys Can Help With Planning
Another way tax attorneys can be helpful is with tax planning. A tax attorney can structure your assets if you need a tax plan to minimize liability. If all you need is essential tax preparation, you can hire a CPA or an enrolled agent. A CPA is similar to an EA, except that an EA doesn’t have as much training or experience.
Both CPAs and tax attorneys can help with:
- Tax planning
- Financial decisions
- Minimizing tax penalties
However, CPAs may have more experience on the financial side of tax preparation. Alternatively, tax attorneys can provide legal advice in the face of adversity or possible problems. If you need representation in a tax defense case, trust a Los Angeles tax attorney. A tax attorney can also help you solve cases involving significant tax debt and other problems.
Ready to Hire a CPA or Tax Attorney?
If you aren’t sure whether to hire a CPA or tax attorney, call Platinum Tax Defenders for a free consultation. A tax attorney can speak with you at no cost or obligation. Additionally, during your free consultation, a tax attorney will:
- Review your case
- Provide you with honest advice on whether you should retain a tax attorney
Call Platinum Tax Defenders today for a free consultation.