Mission Statement Our firm's mission is to help our clients achieve success by providing personalized attention and a commitment to service that addresses not only today's needs but tomorrow's plans. We aim to provide excellent service, placing a premium on timeliness, thoroughness and accuracy.   Firm History Ashland Tax & Business Services, Inc. has been helping individuals and businesses in and around Clay County, Alabama since 1986. Our staff includes three Enrolled Agents available year round. We currently have the only Enrolled Agents practicing in Clay County.   Professional Associations and Memberships National Society of Accountants (NSA) National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) Authorized IRS e-File Provider Enrolled Agents (EA) What is an Enrolled Agent? An enrolled agent is a person who has earned the privilege of representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service by passing a three-part comprehensive IRS test that requires them to demonstrate proficiency in federal tax planning, individual and business tax return preparation, and representation. They must also pass an IRS background check. Enrolled agent status is the highest credential the IRS awards. Individuals who obtain this elite status must adhere to ethical standards and complete 72 hours of continuing education courses every three years. Enrolled agents, like attorneys and certified public accountants (CPAs), have unlimited practice rights. This means they are unrestricted as to which taxpayers they can represent, what types of tax matters they can handle, and which IRS offices they can represent clients before. How is an 'Enrolled Agent' different from other tax preparers? Unlicensed tax preparers (those who are not attorneys, CPA's, or Enrolled Agents) are currently not required to pass any tests for minimal competency or to take annual continuing education training. This does not necessarily mean that non-credentialed tax preparers are untrained or unqualified to prepare tax returns. However, their ability to represent clients before the IRS is severely limited. Unenrolled preparers may voluntarily participate in the IRS Annual Filing Season Program by taking an Annual Federal Tax Refresher course and other continuing education. However, even after doing so they still have only limited representation rights before the IRS. Being an 'Enrolled Agent' (aka EA) is a much more stringent standard, which is why the IRS grants them unlimited practice rights, allowing them to represent clients for any tax matter.   Client Satisfaction Our reputation is built upon a foundation of satisfied clients. Our goal is your complete satisfaction, nothing less. Whether we're preparing financial statements or tax returns, dealing with the IRS or providing any other assistance, we have your best interests in mind.