In 2011, I served as a volunteer for VITA during tax season at a local community college. It was rewarding experience; every person has different if not unique tax situation. It's like a test or exam with problems to solve combined with the life story of each person in the background.
I earned my EA license in January 2015 after passing all three-part test first attempt. During 2012 to 2024, I gained experience from working for other firms from retail tax-chain, financial advisor, wealth management and CPA offices. Each of them had diverse clientele and allowed me broad exposure of taxes for individuals, small businesses, trusts, estates, gift tax, international etc. People with zero tax to someone who donated their IRA to maximum allowed to charity. And as you know, zero tax does not always mean poor, and it is legit if done it correctly. I'm talking about tax planning, opportunity and strategy, not tax evasion. While I strive for possible tax strategy and planning, integrity is my first priority.
One of my best moments in helping my clients was when someone is granted Innocent Spouse of Relief after a painful divorce and years of battle with the IRS.
Taxes is broad, complex and keep changing. It is like keeping up with technology, once you stop learning you'll be left behind. As a tax practitioner, the more I learn the more I feel like know nothing. Sharing and helping people undo the knots of tax problems, educate my community and people surrounding has become my passion.