Member of the Month Archives

2008
2007
2006
2005
2004

jeffschweitzerOctober 2008 Member of the Month - Jeffrey N. Schweitzer, CEP, ATP

Massachusetts Chapter Secretary, Jeff Schweitzer, joined NATP in 1999 and has been a valuable asset to our Association ever since.  In addition to acting as Website Chair, Jeff has volunteered at Conference, has contributed to Conference leadership roundtable meetings, and has recently completed the Chapter Leadership Training Program with the MA Chapter.

Congratulations Jeff &
thank you for your dedication to NATP!

Q. Please give a summary of your background in the tax industry – how you got started, if you were in another line of business before, etc. Include current tax-related activities and areas of specialization. If you have a tax business, please let us know where it is located/how many staff you employ/any other information you think is pertinent.

A. In December of 1997, I graduated from the University of Maine, Orono, with a B.S. in business administration and I immediately joined my father's firm, Northeast Financial Strategies, Inc. (NFS) located in Norwood, MA. I have learned the insurance, financial, and tax business from working along side him every day since then. We work with clients located all over the country and even a few international clients. We offer a variety of services to our individual and small business clients including comprehensive financial and estate planning, investments, accounting, income tax preparation, payroll services, and insurance. We have strategic partnerships with local attorneys, bankers, mortgage advisors, and real estate brokers in order to make NFS a true "One-Stop-Shop" for our clients' financial needs. I prepare all of the returns that leave our office, about 400 annually, plus I am a Notary Public. NFS is operated by myself and my father, my wife runs our entire payroll operation, and we employ one full-time bookkeeper. In addition to the NATP, I am a member of the NSA (National Society of Accountants) and NICEP (National Institute of Certified Estate Planners). I am also part of a national networking group comprised of about 20 tax practices all over the country. We communicate daily via email and meet in person semiannually to help each other in the areas of marketing, business planning, tax research, software support, and other areas.

Q. Please give a summary of how you found out about NATP and what benefits you find the most valuable – include any NATP activities you've participated in (Education, Mentoring, Instructing, etc.). 

A. In 1999, I was searching for a tax update seminar. I found the NATP 1040 and 1040 Extra seminars. Immediately I became a member and have not missed one of these seminars since then. The complete offering of educational seminars, textbooks, research department services, and newsletters are major benefits of membership in NATP. The other area that is a very important part of membership is being in a state with an active state chapter. I currently serve as Secretary on the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Chapter of NATP as well as acting as the website administrator. Our chapter completed the pilot program on the recently designed NATP Chapter Leadership Training Program. I attended the National Conference in Boston and volunteered with our state chapter. While at conference, I attended the leadership roundtable meetings and networked with individuals from all corners of the country, in addition to all of the great educational seminars offered throughout the week.

Q. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today? What could NATP do to better prepare them for those challenges?

A. The biggest challenges are keeping abreast of the ever-changing tax laws and regulations that seem to be never ending. If you review everything that NATP has to offer in the ways of updates and research, you will be ahead of the rest of the pack.

Q. What are your future career goals?

A. My goals include growing our practice and helping many clients with their needs in all of the financial areas that we offer.

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment," an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career in the tax industry?

A. Most embarrassing moment:

  • Not recognizing a long time, walk-in client and beginning their annual interview with another client's folder and previous year tax return in front of me – not only embarrassing, but very confusing as well.

   Defining moments:

  • After being hunted down and trapped in the corner at a state update seminar, having the then current treasurer ask me to serve on the State Chapter Board of Directors.
  • Being chosen as NATP Member of the Month by one of my peers, who remains anonymous.

Q. Please share any information that you'd like about your family, hobbies, community involvement, etc. In other words, your life outside of the tax industry!

A. My wife Dawn and I met in college and will celebrate our 10 year anniversary next fall (October 2009). We have two daughters - Camden 5 years old and Callie 2 years old. Plus some new exciting news; we are expecting number three in late December! In addition to the kids, our family dog Kasey will be 10 this summer. I coached baseball (Senior Babe Ruth and American Legion) for 13 years, retired in 2004, and now spend my time following the kids around in U6 soccer. I enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, downhill skiing, kickboxing, playing softball, and riding my motorcycle whenever the unpredictable New England weather permits. I am a lifetime member of the University of Maine Alumni Association, a lifetime member of the National Eagle Scout Association, a member of my high school reunion planning board, and also serve as the volunteer coordinator (and accountant) for the annual Remember 9-11 Motorcycle Ride from Boston to Ground Zero, NYC, each September.

Q. Any other information/concerns/suggestions you'd like to share with fellow tax professionals?

A. Know your clients!! (See question #6 above – embarrassing moments). Don't work with anyone you are not comfortable working with because there are way too many good clients out there to waste your time and energy on bad clients. Be the best at what you do. If you don't know the answer; know how to find it (insert NATP advertisement here)!!

"Life's battle doesn't always go to the stronger or faster man. Sooner or later the man who wins is the man who thinks he can!"

You can contact Jeff at jeff@nfsnet.com

kathyvosburgSeptember 2008 Member of the Month - Kathy D. Vosburg, EA

Devoted member, Kathy Vosburg, Chesterfield, MI, joined the NATP team in 1994.  Kathy's commitment to NATP and its members has been extraordinary.  In addition to serving on the Michigan Chapter Board of Directors for numerous years, she is a State Assistant Volunteer and an Education Committee member.  Kathy also keeps members current on Michigan tax legislation activity by producing an e-mail update, plus has instructed several Michigan Chapter classes.

Congratulations Kathy &
thank you for your dedication to NATP!

Q. Please give a summary of your background in the tax industry – how you got started, if you were in another line of business before, etc. Include current tax-related activities and areas of specialization. If you have a tax business, please let us know where it is located/how many staff you employ/any other information you think is pertinent.

A. I began working as a tax consultant in 1981 after having taken a leave from accounting work to be an at-home mother.  After three years of motherhood, I needed a challenge and thought the seasonal work fit my career goals.  After having worked for a large tax preparation company for eight years, I decided to open my own business as a sole proprietor in Chesterfield, Michigan. In 1996 I became an Enrolled Agent. 

I own a referral-only business and specialize in clergy and licensed in-home day care operators with more than 250 clients residing in six different states. E-file and e-mail are essential tools in my practice.

Q. Please give a summary of how you found out about NATP and what benefits you find the most valuable – include any NATP activities you've participated in (Education, Mentoring, Instructing, etc.). 

A. At the time I decided to open my own business, I wanted to be affiliated with an organization that would provide tax support and advice so I joined NATP. I've found the classes to be very informative and practical. After taking the NATP class in preparation for the Enrolled Agent exam, I was very fortunate to pass all four parts of the exam at the same time.

I serve on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Chapter of NATP, serve on the Education Committee, and produce an e-mail update on Michigan tax legislative activity for our members.

I have also taught a few classes for the Michigan Chapter and volunteer as a State Assistance Volunteer.

Q. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today? What could NATP do to better prepare them for those challenges?

A. The biggest challenges facing tax professionals today are the increasing number of "free" tax services and the increasing number of clients who are in financial difficulty.

The so called "free" services have taken away some of my clients, especially those who are trying to save money in these tough economic times. However, I've also gotten new clients who have made mistakes while trying to prepare their own returns.

NATP could consider marketing to taxpayers who are online searching for free tax services with links to "find a preparer" in their zip code.

Q. What are your future career goals?

A. I plan to continue preparing taxes until my grandchildren want to take over my business. The oldest grandchild is only four years old, so I think I'll be doing taxes for a while!

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment," an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career in the tax industry?

A. One of my tax clients is a state representative. Upon completion of his tax return, he was very unhappy with the outcome of his state return.  When I explained how the state tax code applied to his situation, he decided the statute needed to be changed.  He drafted a bill to change the tax law to make that particular situation more favorable to the taxpayer.

Another time, I contacted my own state representative to complain about a tax law that was unfair to military reservists who rent out their homes while they are on active duty. The legislator introduced a bill to change the law and asked me to testify at the committee hearing.

Q. Please share any information that you'd like about your family, hobbies, community involvement, etc. In other words, your life outside of the tax industry!

A. I serve on the board of our local Compassion Pregnancy Center, am a member of the Chesterfield Township Historical Society, and am a member of Anchor Bay Rotary.

I am also a Macomb County Commissioner serving in my third term as an elected official.  This is election year for me, so I will be busy this fall on my re-election campaign. 

I am blessed to be married for 35 years to my wonderful husband, Duane, who is very supportive of my career.  We are both involved in our church where I play piano/keyboard.  We're very proud of our three sons and their wonderful wives and our two grandchildren.

You can contact Kathy at kvosburg@sbcglobal.net

DebbieConnellAugust 2008 Member of the Month - Debra J. Connell, EA

Arizona Chapter President, Debbie Connell, goes the extra mile for NATP and its members! In addition to serving as President, Secretary, and Director on the Arizona Chapter Board, Debbie has chaired numerous key committees. When the chapter education chair resigned, Debbie came to the rescue. Including her duties as President, Debbie took on the education responsibilities, recruited volunteers, and ensured the tremendous success of the program.

Congratulations Debbie &
thank you for your dedication to NATP!

Q. Please give a summary of your background in the tax industry – how you got started, if you were in another line of business before, etc. Include current tax-related activities and areas of specialization. If you have a tax business, please let us know where it is located/how many staff you employ/any other information you think is pertinent.

A. I have always enjoyed working with numbers and took every business course I could in school. I had worked as a bookkeeper, real estate secretary, escrow assistant, and also had a great job in civil service. My previous profession was as a co-owner/operator. For thirteen years, I was in business with my husband (we are now divorced) and we were over-the-road truck drivers. While in the trucking business, I took care of all the bookkeeping and paperwork side of the business and also assisted in the loading/unloading and driving. I took my year-end books to Alan Reeve, a tax professional in Sierra Vista for about 10 years.

I started my business in 1992 in Tucson, Arizona, initially as a home-based bookkeeping business with one customer. I credit Alan Reeve, my prior tax professional, with giving me the confidence and the tools to become a tax professional.  The business steadily grew over the next five years and when I had about 80 tax clients and about 20 monthly write-up clients, I moved the business to a small rented office. Presently, my business, RedSun Bookkeeping & Tax Services, LCC, is located inside of a corporate center in an office I purchased in late 2002.  It has room for us to grow and I would like to eventually add three more tax professionals to our staff.

I have three full time employees, with the four of us working year-round.  Diane and Kate handle about 60 monthly accounts with their bookkeeping and payroll needs, and Jane and I work on taxes year round. We have about 775 individual and business returns. I also hold a Series 6 and 63 securities license and provide financial services. We have turned into a family business, with my sister, Jane, and I being the two EAs in the office and our sister-in-law, Diane, heading up the bookkeeping and payroll side of the business.  We would adopt Kate if she would let us! We have been adding a receptionist/tax assistant during tax season; however, we are going to need another tax professional next year.

Q. Please give a summary of how you found out about NATP and what benefits you find the most valuable – include any NATP activities you've participated in (Education, Mentoring, Instructing, etc.). 

A. It was Alan Reeve, who was my prior tax professional and an NATP member at that time, who encouraged me to pursue the tax field and informed me of NATP. I was the only tax pro in my office until 2004, so the education and contacts I received thru NATP was clearly invaluable.  I have also created life-long friendships with a lot of members.

I have served on the AZ-NATP board this time since 2003 and served for several years back in the 90s. I have been on numerous committees and served several years as the Secretary until I was elected as President for 2007, which is the office I currently serve in.  I feel that education is extremely important in our industry, so my focus with our chapter is education.

Q. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today? What could NATP do to better prepare them for those challenges?

A. I feel that there are several challenges facing tax professionals today:

  • The first is the negativity tax professionals get from the IRS.  The IRS should be building our reputation as tax professionals and inform the public of our expertise and not offer any services that compete directly against us.
  • The second is finding qualified tax professionals. We have been lucky to have family members interested in doing taxes, but we are now looking outside of the family.
  • Also, as a tax business owner, I face challenges specifically during tax season with finding the balance between producing and running a business.

What could NATP do?  I would like to see a nationwide advertising campaign to bring more positive attention to tax professionals and especially NATP members. Give the public the information and knowledge it needs to find an educated and qualified tax professional. To address the second challenge, I would like to see an NATP program started to teach basic tax preparation.  A national tax company is having their new students sign non-compete contracts while in basic classes, so it is getting harder and harder to send new employees to basic tax classes.

Q. What are your future career goals?

A. I would like to look into the CFP program and continue growing my business, especially on the tax side.  I really love what I do and don't plan on giving it up for a long, long time.

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment," an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career in the tax industry?

A. Yes, several… one of the first was realizing that I couldn't do it all myself!  And, to have two of my family members believe in me and the vision I had for the business (enough to work with me) was very amazing.

I am a recent EA, receiving my license in May 2007.  I took the EA study course with NATP the first time after I had only been in business for a couple of years, but the partnership and corporation questions wrecked havoc on my score! I didn't retest at that time.  I didn't feel like I needed to pursue that designation at that time. My business was successful, I had an EFIN and everything was going fine. I had a defining moment when I lost a staff member who happened to be a CPA and did all the audits for our company at that time. It occurred to me that I would be doing a major disservice to my clients if I wasn't able to provide that higher level of service to them.  I had more experience with the bigger business returns, so I looked again to NATP for the study material for the EA test and I was the first tester for the new computerized EA test here in Tucson!

Q. Please share any information that you'd like about your family, hobbies, community involvement, etc. In other words, your life outside of the tax industry!

A. I have an awesome life! I have the most wonderful and supportive family and friends.  I am a home body by nature, so outside of tax season we have a lot of get together time… pool parties and barbeques. I enjoy barbequing, but tend to cook with the burners too high, so I am learning that lower and slower is better!  I enjoy walking, hiking and working outside on the flowers and backyard. I make a mean margarita. I love motor sports. I love pets and recently lost my last dog, Cinnamon, after fifteen wonderful years.

My limit is belonging to two organizations at a time.  Besides NATP, I am a member of the Marana Chamber of Commerce.  I have done a tax planning presentation for them.  Also, I have participated in our AZ-NATP chapters "Tax Pros for a Cure", our team that Susan Spaur started for the "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk". I also support animal charities.

Q. Any other information/concerns/suggestions you'd like to share with fellow tax professionals?

A. Professionally, I would say "Begin as you plan to continue." Treat customers now like you did the first time they walked in the door. Education is mandatory; it will help your clients and it will help your confidence.  Keep your ethics at a higher standard.

Personally, I would say… be a good person, treat others as you would like to be treated, have good morals, help someone or something in need, and… smile!  It's that simple.

You can contact Debbie at redsun1@qwestoffice.net

richardwestonJuly 2008 Member of the Month - Richard L. Weston, CFP®, ATA, ABA

Missouri NATP Chapter President, Richard Weston, owns and operates Tax and Financial Advisors in Springfield, Missouri. Richard has been a long-time supporter of NATP. Since 1989, Richard has worn many hats within the Association, including serving nine years on the National Board of Directors and eight years as Treasurer, plus chairing numerous committees and volunteering at NATP functions.   

Congratulations Richard & thank you
for your dedication to NATP!

Q. Please give a summary of your background in the tax industry – how you got started, if you were in another line of business before, etc. Include current tax-related activities and areas of specialization. If you have a tax business, please let us know where it is located/how many staff you employ/any other information you think is pertinent.

A. I started my first practice in Pittsburg, Kansas during my senior college year in 1956.  After serving in the Army, I took a job in Miami, Oklahoma and two years later bought out the firm.  About 9 years later, one of my competitors bought me out and I went into practice in Columbus, Kansas where I expanded my business by buying several H&R Block offices. In 1981, I sold the practices and our family purchased a practice plus five other accounting firms in Springfield, Missouri.  In 1989, I became a registered representative with H. D. Vest Financial Services and in 1991 enhanced my career by becoming a Certified Financial Planner®.

Currently, my wife Lois and I, along with our daughter Tammy, own and operate Tax and Financial Advisors.  TFA has a total of three additional employees during tax season. We prepare nearly 1,300 income tax returns as well as servicing 150 monthly and quarterly accounting clients. TFA uses the Drake income tax program with dual monitor and eFilingCabinet as our document filing system. I've started using Copanion, to speed up production. 

Q. Please give a summary of how you found out about NATP and what benefits you find the most valuable – include any NATP activities you've participated in (Education, Mentoring, Instructing, etc.)

A. I've been a member for so long (since 1989) that I do not remember how I found NATP, but it was one of the best things I ever did (besides marrying Lois).  Around 1991, the Missouri NATP chapter was formed and I had the pleasure of being a charter member and later serving as its third President. I attended my first NATP Conference during my term as president and ran for the Board of Directors of NATP where I served for nine years and as Treasurer for eight.

Q. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today? What could NATP do to better prepare them for those challenges? 

A. The biggest challenges facing the tax professionals are:

  • The unknown with the IRS licensing,
  • Keeping updated on the new tax laws (thanks NATP),
  • But the main challenge is that income tax preparation has become a commodity and not a real profession. This year one of the major tax services is offering a $ 40 discount, another $ 20 discount, as well as several ads for a $35 fee.  Trying to figure out how to separate ourselves from these is hard to do. 

Q. What are your future career goals?

A. I plan on turning over the business, Tax and Financial Advisors, to my daughter.

Q. Please share any information that you'd like about your family, hobbies, community involvement, etc. In other words, your life outside of the tax industry!

A. I have served on the Advisory Board of the Springfield Salvation Army for 18 years, and the Ozark Literacy Council. While in Joplin, Missouri, I had the pleasure of serving as DeMolay Dad for 12 years before we moved to Springfield.

Q. Any other information/concerns/suggestions you'd like to share with fellow tax professionals?

A. The profession is changing. I just read a little book called Change is Good, You Go First, which is what we have been doing (letting the other guy try it first.) We still have not adopted the technology that will allow us to be more productive. It is interesting when we present a seminar on "paperless" how many still ask about dual screens. Many of my friends are still working 14-16 hours day.  This is not good.

So use NATP to help keep you up-to-date, not only in taxes, but about the new world we live in.

You can contact Richard at lesstax1@tfaxtax.com.

peggywillitsJune 2008 Member of the Month - Peggy A. Willits, EA

A devoted NATP member since 1989, Peggy currently serves as the NATP Indiana Chapter President and as Director of the Indiana Chapter Board. To top it off, this is her third term as President, plus she has served twice as Chapter Vice President and chaired workshops.  Although Peggy is busy running her own business, Willits Tax Service in South Milford, she diligently continues to contribute her time and talent to NATP and her fellow members.

Congratulations Peggy & thank you
for your dedication to NATP!

Q. Please give a summary of your background in the tax industry – how you got started, if you were in another line of business before, etc. Include current tax-related activities and areas of specialization. If you have a tax business, please let us know where it is located/how many staff you employ/any other information you think is pertinent.

A. I got started doing taxes in 1980 with H & R Block.  I worked for them for five years and then gradually went on my own. I now have my own business, doing over 1,100 tax returns a year, plus some bookkeeping accounts and some payroll. I have two girls in my office at tax time, and one girl one day a week after that.

I also drove school bus for about 10 years and really enjoyed it, but had to give it up as my business grew.    

Q. Please give a summary of how you found out about NATP and what benefits you find the most valuable – include any NATP activities you've participated in (Education, Mentoring, Instructing, etc.)

A. When I quit working for H & R Block, my biggest problem was the interaction with other people was gone.  I had no one to talk to when I had a problem. Then I got a brochure about NATP and decided to go to Indianapolis and see what it was all about.  The Indiana Chapter was fairly new then and trying to interest new members; I was very impressed with the people involved.

Q. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today? What could NATP do to better prepare them for those challenges? 

A. I think the biggest challenge today is keeping up with the tax laws and the new technology that goes with it.  NATP does an excellent job of keeping us informed and updated.

Q. What are your future career goals?

A. I am getting old enough that I am very happy where I am right now. The girl that is working for me will, I hope, be ready to take over where I leave off when I retire.

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment," an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career in the tax industry?

A. I think the most awesome thing I will always remember, is the first time I went to National Convention in Las Vegas. I had never been there before, and it was breathtaking. The most memorable part was that I stayed after convention to take an EA Course with Steve O'Rourke on the lower level of the MGM Grand, and the lights went out. There was a major problem, and we had no electric for 24 hours.  The generators got the slots and the elevators going, but class was over.

Q. Please share any information that you'd like about your family, hobbies, community involvement, etc. In other words, your life outside of the tax industry!

A. I just lost my mother in December, but she has been and always will be my role model.  She had her pilot's license and was an active pilot until she was 95.  She died at 97. She also was a postal mail carrier for 20 years, played the organ at her church, and made enough quilts for her 5 children and 19 grandchildren. She finished the last quilt 1 month before she died.

Q. Any other information/concerns/suggestions you'd like to share with fellow tax professionals?

A. I would say that the best thing that ever happened to me involving the tax business was finding NATP. The resources and getting to know fellow tax professionals have been phenomenal.

You can contact Peggy at pwillits@willitstaxservice.com.

karencoombesMay 2008 Member of the Month - Karen L. Coombes, EA

She's enthusiastic, innovative, and an exemplary leader;  Karen Coombes, NATP Texas Chapter President, is that and so much more! Over the past 10 years, Karen has generously contributed her time and talent to NATP and to her fellow members. She has held a multitude of leadership positions and served on numerous committees. In addition to volunteering on the Chapter Advisory Council, Karen has been working on partnering with the IRS and the (SBDC) Small Business Development Center to offer educational seminars for NATP members and all tax professionals in Texas. This would make it possible to do several seminars throughout the state each year instead of just one or two, plus at a lower cost.

Congratulations Karen & thank you for your
dedication to NATP!

Q. Please give a summary of your background in the tax industry – how you got started, if you were in another line of business before, etc. Include current tax-related activities and areas of specialization. If you have a tax business, please let us know where it is located/how many staff you employ/any other information you think is pertinent. 

A. My first career was in the medical field – bookkeeper, billing clerk, and neonatology practice office manager. Then 10 years in the restaurant industry – waitress, assistant manager, kitchen manager and eventually general manager. 

In 1988 I started with a Service Bureau doing computer input for CPA firms, where I developed an interest in tax preparation. I took all the H&R Block courses offered, as well as college courses in accounting and tax.

In 1991 I started preparing returns for family and friends, then their families and friends, and co-workers and neighbors, and by 1998 I had enough clients to leave the Service Bureau.  I developed a home-based practice serving about 175 clients and in 2004 sold the practice to the CPA firm I currently work for.

I specialize in 1040 preparation – mostly small businesses (Sch C) and folks with rental and investment activities. The past two years I have been doing audit representation for an insurance company and am now focusing my business in that area. Now that tax season is over, I am leaving the CPA firm and will maintain a small home-based practice specializing in 1040 preparation and will continue with the audit work.

Q. Please give a summary of how you found out about NATP and what benefits you find the most valuable – include any NATP activities you've participated in (Education, Mentoring, Instructing, etc.)

A. I was looking for an EA Review Course in 1998 and found NATP then. I attribute my passing of the exam on my first try to that review course and have been a loyal NATP member ever since. 

The most valuable membership benefit to me is the education, and secondly the networking opportunities.

  • I have attended the NATP National Conference every year since 1999 except for one, and attend the 1040 Workshop annually, as well as almost all of the Texas NATP education events.
     
  • I have been an instructor at the state level and have been a mentor through the National NATP mentor program.
     
  • I have also served on the Nominations Committee for National and am currently serving my second term on the CAC. 
     
  • I have been active on the state level as newsletter editor from 2001 until 2005 and am, once again, for 2008, our newsletter editor. 
     
  • I was elected to the Board of Directors in 2002 and have served there since, as Vice-President in 2005 and as President 2006, 2007, and recently re-elected President for 2008.

Q. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today? What could NATP do to better prepare them for those challenges? 

A.

  • The ever-changing tax laws and pressure from the IRS for us to "pre-audit" tax returns, as evidenced by the new Circular 230 regulations and penalties, plus the cost to stay abreast of these changes.
     
  • Dealing with the IRS – a large agency wherein the left hand does not know what the right hand is doing.
     
  • The cost to keep up with technology.
     
  • Competition from unscrupulous preparers.
     
  • For preparers with larger practices, the expense of and difficulty finding qualified employees.
     
  • For unenrolled preparers, the impending legislation on licensing regulations.

Q. What are your future career goals?

A. I am actually at a point in my life where I am trying to wind down a little.  I intend to keep a very small 1040 practice, along with the audit representation work, at a level I can manage as a home office, a one person operation. 

I will stay active in NATP. This is vital to me for the continuation of my business as a professional.  Over the years, I have developed many close relationships with NATP members from around the country and from a social, as well as professional standpoint, those networking relationships are an important part of my continued success.

 

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment," an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career in the tax industry?

A. I guess I have erased the embarrassing moments from my memory as I can't think of any right now, but I know there have been some.

As for defining moments, when I received the news that I had passed the EA exam, I not only felt major relief, but felt like a true professional.  It was a tremendous boost to my confidence and self-esteem and confirmed my aspirations were on the right track.

I love being a tax preparer; the relationships I have developed through NATP and other professional organizations and gatherings, as well as those with my clients, are priceless to me.  It is also very interesting to learn so much about other people's lives and their jobs/businesses.

Q. Please share any information that you'd like about your family, hobbies, community involvement, etc. In other words, your life outside of the tax industry!

A. I live on a small 7½ acre ranch at the edge of the hill country in central Texas with my husband, who is retired, my aussie dog Bourney, and my two beautiful horses, Poco Time and Riese. 

My eldest daughter has a wonderful husband and has blessed me with two of my precious grandchildren – Emma, who just turned 6, and Patrick, Jr. who is 4½.  They live just an hour away, which allows us to spend a lot of time together. 

My other daughter also lives nearby after years of being away at college completing her master's degree in kinesiology.

I also have two stepsons nearby, both married to wonderful ladies. The eldest has an 18 month old daughter, baby Kate, and the younger has a 3 year old son, Carter, with a baby brother for him due May 4th.

I enjoy spending time with family and friends and my hobby is arts and crafts, especially beadwork. My favorite place to be is out in the wilderness on the back of one of my horses.  I love endurance and trail riding and will soon be accompanied by my granddaughter Emma, who has been riding 2 years and is becoming a very talented equestrian. 

Q. Any other information/concerns/suggestions you'd like to share with fellow tax professionals?

A.

  • Be proud of yourself and take time daily to reflect on your accomplishments and strengths. Concentrate on the things you enjoy and are good at.
     
  • Know what you know, and what you don't know. Don't let others pressure you into things you are not comfortable with. If you don't understand corporate taxes or payroll, etc., find someone to associate with to handle those things for your clients.  Be honest with yourself about your shortcomings and address them. 
  • Take advantage of opportunities to learn and grow as a professional. The investment of your time and money will come back to you.
  • Practice "kaizen" (continuous improvement) in both your personal and professional life. I try every day to do four things:
      • Something for myself,
      • Something for someone else,
      • Something I want to do, and
      • Something I don't want to do.

You can contact Karen at karen@cobaltemail.com

debbiedestroApril 2008 Member of the Month - Debra J. Destro, CPA, EA

Debra has been an NATP member for over 16 years and is described by her fellow members as "the backbone of our chapter." Along with managing her four businesses, she has contributed immensely to NATP and the Ohio Chapter by taking on the responsibilities of numerous leadership positions throughout the years. In addition, to acting as treasurer for two non-profit organizations, Debra serves on the Brunswick Income Tax Review Board, has been a frequent speaker for many organizations, and has taught income tax preparation.

Congratulations Debra & thank you for your dedication to NATP!

Q. Please give a summary of your background in the tax industry:

A.   I started by taking a H&R Block income tax course in 1983. I was a wife and full-time mother at the time. I worked the next five seasons as a tax preparer. In 1988, I rented a desk in the office of an Allstate Insurance Agent and opened my own business. I prepared 125 tax returns that season. At the end of 1989, I acquired my NASD Series 7 license and began offering financial services. I added accounting and payroll services in 1995.  My husband joined the business in 1998. At that time, the business expanded to include insurance. In 2007, we purchased two H&R Block franchise locations. Today, my practice has grown to eight full-time employees and 29 seasonal employees. The three firms will prepare about 5,000 income tax returns.

Q. Please give a summary of how you found out about NATP and what benefits you find the most valuable – include any NATP activities you have participated in (Education, Mentoring, Instructing, etc.)

A. I found out about NATP at the Enrolled Agents Test Site in 1991. I joined the organization in 1992. I liked (and still do) the updates that NATP provides along with the networking at Annual Conferences. Over the years, I have served on many committees for the Ohio Chapter. I have chaired the NATP Ohio Annual Conference for the past seven years. I have also served as a Director, Vice President, and President of the NATP Ohio Chapter. I have presented on various topics at the Ohio Conferences, Ohio State Society of Enrolled Agent Seminars, and local organizations such as real estate agents, teacher associations, and high school government classes.  I have also taught income tax courses at the local community college.

Q. What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today? What could NATP do to better prepare them for those challenges?

A. There are two challenges today.  The first is finding qualified individuals to hire as tax preparers.  The second is lack of time in the day to complete all the work that a tax and accounting firm has and manage the business.

NATP could initiate some national advertising to help locate NATP members that are offering basic tax classes (for a fee). This would create awareness of NATP and the need for training to prepare income tax.

Q. What are your future career goals?

A. I hope to teach tax and accounting classes at the local university center that is being built in the area.  With retirement age 10 to 12 years away, my goal is to continue to build a competent staff that can carry on the reputation my firm has built and continue providing the services we are known for.

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment", an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career in the tax industry?

A. Everyday has such a moment.  Moments such as:

  • Helping a client, who has dealt with the death of an adult child and does not know where to start with the financial affairs. Then the client can realize a sense of relief when I organize, explain and handle everything needed. 
     
  • Laughing with employees on April 14th because of the umpteenth phone call asking if their return is ready because "Don't we know tomorrow is the deadline?"
     
  • Having the "annual" visit with the client who is now a grandmother and smiles in awe that I still remember her children's names and the dog!
  • I can still remember the client I was with when the first bomb fell for Desert Storm. 

Q. Please share any information that you would like about your family, hobbies, community involvement, etc. In other words, your life outside of the tax industry!

A. I am happily married with four adult children. Jeff took a year off between his bachelor and master's degree to learn the business and tax preparation even though his degree is in music therapy. TG is married with two children that I enjoy every moment I can with.  He left nine years of military service this year to manage the H&R Block franchises for us. Amanda, my step-daughter, is a graphic artist that works for a company that designs scrap booking kits. The youngest, my step-son Tony, moved back from sunny Florida in December to help with the new franchises.  Yes, we have maneuvered all but one into the business!

In my spare time, I am Treasurer for two non-profit organizations. The Brunswick Education Foundation and the Medina County Arts Council incorporate my passion for children, education, and the arts into my life. I am an active member of the local Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Medina County, and serve on the city income tax review board. 

My husband and I are also owners of Kids Town Child Development Center, a unique full day, curriculum based toddler and pre-school center that we designed and opened in 2004.  Summer allows for the occasional camping trip and swimming.

Q. Any other information/concerns/suggestions you would like to share with fellow tax professionals?

A. Education is a life long commitment to keep updated to provide clients with the most tax savings the law allows. Our profession offers a way to help others better their lifestyle and be good citizens. Taxes are a burden, but everyone should pay their fair share and not a penny more.  Those that try to avoid or cheat the system only hurt the honest taxpayers. The tax preparer profession has a huge responsibility in helping the taxpayer stay honest without being the IRS auditor.

You can contact Debra at brunsts@aol.com

LanceWallachMarch 2008 Member of the Month - Lance Wallach, CLU, CHFC, CIMC

Lance Wallach, Plainview NY, is a member of the AICPA faculty of teaching professionals and an AICPA course developer.  He speaks at more than 70 national conventions a year on topics including retirement plans, financial and estate planning, reducing health insurance costs, and tax-oriented strategies. He writes for numerous publications, and has authored many books for the AICPA and Bisk.  In addition, Lance has been named NSA "Speaker of the Year". Congratulations, Lance, on being chosen NATP's March Member of the Month!

Q. How many years have you been in the industry?

A. I have been writing and speaking about tax, insurance, financial planning and related matters for about 35 years. Because my associates are leading authorities in these fields, I have had great access to cutting edge information that others have wanted. My friends in the industry have also assisted in giving me useful information. Friends like Sid Kess, Esq., CPA, who has lectured to more than 715,000 practitioners on tax, and Ira Kaplan, Esq., CPA, have taught me how to present to audiences. Editors at the AICPA, Bisk, etc. have taught me what readers really want to know. I have just finished two books for Bisk, and two courses for the AICPA. By speaking at national conventions such as those of the American Association of Attorney Certified Public Accountants, the American Society of Pension Actuaries, the National Association of Tax Professionals, and the National Society of Accountants, I have had the opportunity to discuss important issues with IRS officials who were also speaking at these programs.

Q. What brought you to NATP and what keeps you as a member?

A. Many years ago the National Association of Tax Professionals asked me to speak at their national convention. I found out about how wonderful the organization was, and have been a member since. In fact, many of the conventions that I now speak at are a result of someone seeing me speak at the NATP and recommending me. I have also been privileged to write for the NATP publications. As a result, I have received hundreds of phone calls from members, some of whom have become my friends. I have also enjoyed mentoring members of the organization.

Q. What are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today?

A. I think the biggest challenge facing tax professionals is the IRS trying to make them policemen. Most tax professionals do not realize that they can now be subject to large fines for nondisclosure of certain activities of their clients. I have authored a few books for the AICPA on these issues. In fact, allowing an item on a client's tax return that turns out to be a listed transaction can be disastrous. This can happen even if the item became listed after the fact, and even if the tax professional never knew that it was listed or abusive. I have spoken at hundreds of conventions about abusive products that clients are buying. Most professions think that these products are legitimate, or think that they are retirement plans, etc. Without further education, the Tax Pro can lose his or her career, not to mention being sued.

Q. What are your goals for the future personally and for your career?

A. Most of my extra time is now spent helping tax professionals get their clients out of abusive or just bad financial products. I think that will involve more of my future time.

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment," an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career as a tax preparer?

One of my most memorable experiences was being named the National Society of Accountants "Speaker of the Year".

Lance always welcomes hearing from NATP members. You can contact him at 516.938.5007 or by email at lawallach@aol.com

EstherOdleFebruary 2008 Member of the Month – Esther M. Odle

Esther Odle knows a thing or two about preparing taxes. She's been doing it for more than 44 years! Her dedication to the industry and to NATP has resulted in her receiving the honor of February Member of the Month. Esther currently serves on the Illinois Board of Directors, as well as the Illinois Nominations Committee. Take a minute to get to know one of NATP's finest. Congratulations Esther!

Q. How many years have you been preparing taxes?

A. 44 years

Q. What is your business name? Where is it located? Do you own it? How many staff members do you employ?

A. The business name is Esther M. Odle, dba Odle Income Tax Service, located in Robinson, IL. I own the business as a sole proprietor. My husband assists by making deposits, running errands, picking up supplies and cooking for me and the staff during tax season. I employ three part-time staff from January through April. One is employed most of the balance of the year.

Q. Approximately how many returns do you file each year? Why types of returns do you file?

A. We prepare more than 950 returns, including personal income tax, corporate, and partnership returns. We also do sales tax and business reporting returns.

Q. Were you in another line of business before doing taxes?

A. I was a legal secretary for 19 years. We did taxes as a client service as part of the law office activities.

Q. Did you have a mentor early in your career? Do you mentor others?

A. In addition to my employer, E.H. Price, two other attorneys, Kent Phillips and Richard Eagleton, would check the inheritance tax return forms that I would prepare and they would then coach me. They also encouraged me to begin my own business. I do mentor others.

Q. Are you involved in other tax-related activities?

A. I am on the Board of Directors for the IL Chapter of NATP. I am chairperson of the IL NATP Nominations Committee.

Q. What brought you to NATP and what keeps you as a member?

A. The education seminars, the monthly and quarterly newsletters and publications, the NATP fellowship, and client Tax Tips. The time NATP spends as a liaison with IRS for the membership is also a plus.

Q. What types of NATP activities have you participated in?

A. I have attended the Annual Conference four times, the Illinois NATP Annual Conference 20 times, and have attended various 1040 workshops.

Q. Why do you recommend NATP to others? What member benefits do you find most beneficial?

A. NATP enhances my knowledge of current taxes and tax changes. It provides education and research helpful to both me and my clients.

Q. What are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today? What could NATP do to better prepare them for these challenges?

A. Keeping up-to-date with the changing tax laws and rates, both Federal and State. The high standards of NATP education and research assist us with this.

Q. Can you give a little background on your family, spouse, children, community involvement, hobbies, favorite activities, etc.?

A. My husband, W. Ralph Odle, and I have been married more than 50 years. Together we raised 28 children, four of ours and 24 foster children. I was the Secretary for the Zoning and Planning Committee of the City of Robinson, IL for five years. I did the local labor union accounting for 30 years. I circulated petitions to obtain the correctional center now in our area. I also do various bookkeeping and accounting services for several small businesses. I am a supporter of Eastern Illinois Sportsman Club and am a band booster for Robinson High School band. My hobbies include working in my flower garden, crocheting, embroidery, music and writing. First and foremost are my children and grandchildren.
 

Q. What are your goals for the future personally and for your career?

A. I would like to continue in income tax preparation while shuffling the sales tax and quarterly return work to the staff. This would let me complete some poetry projects. It would also allow more time with the grandchildren.

Q. What kinds of things are important to you in life?

A. Family, friends, community, my church, and the satisfaction of a job well done.

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment," an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career as a tax preparer?

A. Expressions of faith in me and trust in what I do have made me very aware of how far-reaching the influence of tax professionals goes. NATP membership, education and fellowship will keep me being the best I can be, both as a person and a tax professional.

Click here to download "Tax Thoughts" a poem written by Esther.

denisemadeiraJanuary 2008 Member of the Month – Denise Madeira, EA

Denise is a long time volunteer at NATP. She has served in many capacities – while serving 12 years on the National Board of Directors, she was NATP's first and only female President, as well as holding several other executive committee positions. Her service does not stop at the National level. She has served on many committees and has held many leadership roles within the Pennsylvania Chapter of NATP including Chapter President. Congratulations Denise on being chosen as NATP's January Member of the Month!

Q. How many years have you been preparing taxes?

A. 23 years

Q. Tell us about your business:

A. I own Main Street Tax and Accounting Services, Inc. in Bernville, PA with a staff of three people.

Q. Approximately how many returns do you file each year?

A. I file approximately 409 individual, corporation, partnership, trust, and non-profit returns each year.

Q. Were you in another line of business before doing taxes?

A. In 1983 my father and I owned a manufacturing business. I handled the financial end of the business.

Q. Did you have a mentor early in your career?

A. Yes, NATP. Thank goodness for the NATP instructors in 1984 and 1985, they were awesome.

Q. What brought you to NATP and what keeps you as a member?

A. NATP education and the hands on assistance that I received from the instructors the first two years of this business venture is why I joined NATP. I would never be able to repay NATP for everything that they did for me in my early years in this business. The education and research assistance that I currently receive from NATP, along with networking with my peers is worth every cent I pay in my membership fee. I will always be a member of NATP as long as I am in this line of work. We have a special Pennsylvania network, all due to our wonderful NATP State Chapter, that one would never be able to put a price tag on.

Q. Why do you recommend NATP to others?

A. I always tell professionals my initial story back in 1985 when I attended an advance partnership workshop. The problem was I never saw or completed a partnership return. Dave Grisha, who was also an instructor at that time, but was attending the same workshop, sat right by my side. He was so helpful along with all the other members that I met during those two days. Even though most of the material was over my head, I could not wait to tackle my first partnership return. From that day forward my business and I both grew into the world of taxation and I've enjoyed every moment of it. Any professional, whether they are just starting out or seasoned professionals, needs NATP education and research services. The member will be extremely lucky if their state also has a Chapter. Belonging to an organization that supports tax professionals, whether they are licensed or not, is so important in today's world of taxation.

Q. What member benefits are most beneficial to you?

A. Education, research (home office and periodicals), state Chapter, and networking with members.

Q. What are the biggest challenges facing tax professionals today?

A. Time and support.

Q. What could NATP do to better prepare them for those challenges?

A. As the sole professional in my office it is hard to pass ideas and theories by someone in my office. Thank goodness for our state Chapter. I also do not have time any more to research more detailed or difficult issues. NATP provides great research, but I also foresee that the level of research and time involved by NATP staff on one question will also increase. Just be prepared for those questions and issues and charge us for it.

Q. Can you give a little background on your family, spouse, children, community involvement, hobbies, favorite activities, etc.?

A. I am single, divorced back in 1990, no children. I always say when I grow up I want to be just like my mother and grandmothers, they are and were great ladies of this world and very supportive of their family. My mother is the greatest lady in the world. I live in a small town, so community involvement is a must. In 2005 and 2006 I was responsible for our Memorial Day parade. Main Street provides free service to all the town non-profit organizations, library, swimming pool, fire company, children's sports leagues, etc. I try to help the community when I can. My favorite activities are camping and bike riding. I have quite a few hobbies the favorite being reading.

Q. What are your goals for the future personally and for your career?

A. Well, I am 51 going on 52 years old. Since I started this business I have worked 24/7. My current goal is to try to get my time down to 30 hours a week after tax season. Working 24/7 during tax season is okay, but having one day a week off during this time would also make my day. Another goal is to have a good solid succession plan in place so I can enjoy my semi-retirement when I get those weekly hours down to 30 per week.

Q. What kinds of things are important to you in life?

A. Helping others and doing everything in my power to ensure that everyone around me is happy and enjoying every moment of their life. I have learned that life is too short and too many people dwell on the small things. Helping others learn what I have is really important to me.

Q. Did you ever have a "defining moment," an embarrassing moment, or another memorable experience related to your career as a tax preparer?

A. I probably have a few of each. The most memorable experience is serving on the NATP Board. The individuals that I met and the individuals that I had the opportunity to work with and learn from, is the greatest experience that I will never forget. This experience had a lot to do with my personal and professional growth.

Most embarrassing (I love telling this story) – Back in the late '80's I had a new client in my office. It was in the evening and my last appointment. I did not have an assistant who worked in the evenings. The phone rang which I answered. The person asked me what color underwear I was wearing. My face got bright red, and I whispered in the phone that I will get even with them and will call them back. It was another professional from PA who I worked with at the state Chapter level. They realized I had someone in my office and could not stop laughing. My new client could not believe how red my face was and continued to ask why my face was so red. I finally told them and they could not stop laughing. Their comment to me was that it was so nice to go to a professional who had a sense of humor.

You can contact Denise at dmade42323@aol.com.

 


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