Why can’t my tax professional contact the IRS immediately?

It’s a question we hear from clients from time to time.

Before an Enrolled Agent (EA), CPA, or attorney can discuss your tax account with the IRS on your behalf, the IRS must first process Power of Attorney. This authorization allows us to communicate directly with the IRS regarding your case.

In many situations, the authorization is processed relatively quickly. However, processing times can vary depending on IRS workload and other factors.

The good news is that your case doesn’t stop moving while we wait.

During this time, we can:

• Review your tax history and notices

• Gather and organize supporting documents

• Analyze your transcripts and financial information (when available)

• Evaluate your resolution options

• Develop a strategy tailored to your situation

By the time the authorization becomes active, much of the groundwork has already been completed, allowing us to move forward more efficiently when speaking with the IRS.

Every tax case is unique, but understanding the process helps set realistic expectations—and helps ensure that each case is handled thoroughly from the very beginning.