San Diego California California Enrolled Agents

California has unique tax codes, operational processes, and resolution options. If you're dealing with a state tax problem, a local EA has the knowledge and experience required to solve that problem. 

Additionally, local EAs focus on providing their clients with the highest level of personalized services. In contrast, the big tax relief firms tend to lack experience with the tax laws in California, and they are notorious for using aggressive sales tactics to push clients into programs that aren't necessarily the best option for their situations.

If you have a tax problem, there are three pros who can represent you in front of the IRS or your state revenue agency, and they include enrolled agents, tax attorneys, and CPAs. When looking for a professional, make sure that you find someone who has experience with your tax problem and who feels like they're going to provide you with the customized guidance you need.

If you want in-person assistance, the IRS has the following locations in San Diego. Call (844) 545-5640 to ask about hours or to make an appointment:

San Diego

880 Front St., Suite 1247

San Diego, CA 92101

At all of the above IRS locations, you can ask questions about your account and get basic help with tax law issues. You can also make payments with checks or money orders, and some locations accept cash if you have the exact change. Additionally, you can pick up tax forms, apply for payment plans on back taxes, and file Form 911 to request assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service. 

LITCs offer tax help to people who meet income guidelines or other eligibility requirements. Typically, to get help, your income must be at or below 250% of the poverty line, and you must be dealing with an issue related to $50,000 or less in tax. Here are the LITCs in San Diego with their phone numbers:

Legal Aid Society of San Diego LITC

City: San Diego

Phone: 877-534-2524

University of San Diego LITC

City: San Diego

Phone: 619-260-7470

Enrolled agents and CPAs can both represent you in front of the IRS and the Franchise Tax Board (FTB), the Employment Development Department (EDD), the State Board of Equalization (SBE), and the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), but they have slightly different training and qualifications. To help you find the right choice for your needs, this guide looks at the similarities and differences between these two tax professionals.

If you have tax problems, you need tax resolution services. Tax resolution services can help taxpayers with unfiled tax returns and unpaid taxes, but these services also include audit representation, tax appeals, and help with collection actions. If you're dealing with a tax problem on the state or federal level, check out this guide to learn more about the services you need.

Unfortunately, there are several big companies in the tax relief industry that put profits in front of consumers. This guide explains the red flags to be aware of when you're contacting tax relief companies for free consultations. Bottom line—be wary of big promises from salespeople who aren't licensed tax pros.

The Franchise Tax Board (FTB), the Employment Development Department (EDD), the State Board of Equalization (SBE), and the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) can take severe action against you if you don't pay your individual or business taxes. However, the state also has options to help you get out of tax debt. This article explains what can happen if you don't pay your state taxes, and then, it outlines options for dealing with California tax problems.