Source: https://www.irs.gov/irm/part1/irm_01-025-002
Timestamp: 2019-05-22 08:48:59
Document Index: 136522599

Matched Legal Cases: ['§10', '§10', '§10', '§10', '§10', 'art 1', '§10', '§10', '§10', '§10', '§10', '§10', '§10', '§10']

1.25.2 Practitioner Enrollment | Internal Revenue Service
1.25.2.1 Program Scope and Objectives
1.25.2.1.1 Background of the Enrolled Practitioner Program
1.25.2.1.1.1 Eligibility for Enrollment
1.25.2.1.1.2 Special Enrollment Examination (SEE)
1.25.2.1.1.3 Former IRS Employees
1.25.2.1.1.4 Enrollment Renewals
1.25.2.1.2 Authority
1.25.2.1.3 Responsibilities
1.25.2.1.4 Program Controls
1.25.2.1.5 Acronyms
1.25.2.1.6 Related Resources
1.25.2.2 Responsibilities of Enrolled Agent Policy & Management (EAP&M)
1.25.2.2.1 Work Priorities and Cycle Times
1.25.2.2.2 Receipt and Control of Incoming Mail
1.25.2.2.2.1 Processing Lockbox Mail
1.25.2.2.2.2 Discovered Remittances
1.25.2.2.3 E-Trak Practitioner (E-Trak)
1.25.2.2.4 New Enrollment
1.25.2.2.4.1 Unprocessable Applications
1.25.2.2.4.2 Receiving and Batching
1.25.2.2.4.3 Review and Processing
1.25.2.2.4.4 Ineligible Applicants
1.25.2.2.4.5 Generating and Issuing New Enrollment Cards, Certificates, and Letters
1.25.2.2.5 Enrollment Renewal
1.25.2.2.5.1 Unprocessable Renewal Applications
1.25.2.2.5.2 Receiving and Batching
1.25.2.2.5.3 Reviewing and Processing
1.25.2.2.5.4 Continuing Education Requirements
1.25.2.2.5.5 Continuing Education Waivers
1.25.2.2.5.6 Inactive Retirement Status
1.25.2.2.5.7 Generating and Issuing Renewed Enrollment Cards
1.25.2.2.6 Former IRS Employees
1.25.2.2.6.1 TIGTA Record Check
1.25.2.2.7 Missing Information
1.25.2.2.7.1 Telephone and Email Requests for Missing Information
1.25.2.2.7.2 Letter Requests for Missing Information
1.25.2.2.8 Referrals to RPO Suitability
1.25.2.2.8.1 Determinations made by RPO Suitability
1.25.2.2.9 The Enrolled Practitioner Helpline
1.25.2.2.9.1 Telephone Protocol
1.25.2.2.9.2 Telephone Procedures
1.25.2.2.9.3 Authentication
1.25.2.2.9.4 Common Call Topics
1.25.2.2.9.5 Out-of-Scope Topics
1.25.2.2.9.6 Wrap Time
1.25.2.3 Responsibilities of Return Preparer Office Suitability
1.25.2.3.1 Suitability Determinations - New Enrollments
1.25.2.3.2 Suitability Determinations - Renewals
1.25.2.3.2.1 Requesting Additional Information
1.25.2.3.3 Former Employee Determinations
1.25.2.3.4 Appeals of Enrollment Denial
1.25.2.3.5 Referrals to the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR)
Exhibit 1.25.2-1 Responding to Written Requests and Other Correspondence
Exhibit 1.25.2-2 Former Employee Examination Waiver Position Matrix
Exhibit 1.25.2-3 Responding to Telephone Calls
(1) This transmits revised IRM 1.25.2, Practice Before the Service, Practitioner Enrollment.
This IRM describes how to administer the enrolled practitioner program for Enrolled Agents and Enrolled Retirement Plan Agents.
The processes contained in this IRM were formerly owned by the Office of Practitioner Enrollment (OPE) in the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). They were transferred to the Return Preparer Office (RPO) in 2011.
(1) All references to the Office of Practitioner Enrollment (OPE) were changed to Enrolled Agent Policy & Management (EAP&M).
(2) Responsibilities of the RPO Suitability unit related to the enrolled practitioner program were added.
(3) References to the testing and application process for Enrolled Retirement Plan Agents (ERPAs) were removed due to obsolescence.
(4) Exhibits 1.25.2-1 and 1.25.2-3 were created from the contents of prior section 1.25.2.6, plus additional information.
(5) Exhibit 1.25.2-2 was created to provide a Former Employee Examination Waiver Position Matrix.
(6) The contents of prior sections 1.25.2.7 and 1.25.2.8 were incorporated into other sections.
(7) Several hyperlinks were added as references.
(8) Many subsections were condensed and reorganized.
(9) Many editorial changes were made throughout the document for clarification.
IRM 1.25.2 dated June 1, 2010, is superseded.
The staff of the EAP&M and Suitability units in the Return Preparer Office.
1.25.2.1 (05-31-2017)
Purpose. This section describes how to administer the enrolled practitioner program for enrolled agents and enrolled retirement plan agents. The program involves receiving, evaluating, processing and approving applications for those seeking enrolled agent (EA) status in order to practice before the IRS, as well as processing renewal applications for EAs and enrolled retirement plan agents (ERPAs) and providing telephone support for program participants. Practice before the IRS includes all matters connected with a presentation to the IRS, or any of its officers or employees, relating to a taxpayer’s rights, privileges, or liabilities under laws or regulations administered by the IRS. For more information about practice before the IRS, see IRM 1.25.1, Rules Governing Practice Before the IRS.
Audience. The instructions herein are directed at employees of the Return Preparer Office (RPO) who are responsible for administering the various components of the enrolled practitioner program.
Program Owner. The Enrolled Agent Policy & Management (EAP&M) within RPO administers the enrolled practitioner program.
Policy Owner. The Director, Return Preparer Office, is responsible for the policies and administration of the enrolled practitioner program contained in this section. The Director, Office of Professional Responsibility, is primarily responsible for administering and enforcing Treasury Department Circular 230, Regulations Governing Practice before the Internal Revenue Service (Circular 230).
Stakeholders. To process applications for enrollment and renewal, EAP&M interacts with applicants, practitioners, RPO Suitability, the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
Contact information. EAP&M contact information is located at https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/enrolled-agents/contact-the-office-of-enrollment.
1.25.2.1.1 (05-31-2017)
Background of the Enrolled Practitioner Program
An enrolled practitioner is a person who has earned the privilege of representing taxpayers before the IRS by either passing a comprehensive IRS test or through experience as a former IRS employee. Enrollment is the highest credential the IRS awards. Individuals who obtain this status must adhere to ethical standards and complete 72 hours of continuing education courses every three years.
This section covers specifically enrolled agents (EAs) and enrolled retirement plan agents (ERPAs).
The IRS no longer accepts new applications to become an ERPA, but continues to renew existing ERPA enrollments.
1.25.2.1.1.1 (05-31-2017)
To become an EA, an applicant must:
Pass all three parts of the Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) or be a former IRS employee who held a qualifying position with the IRS.
Submit Form 23. If the applicant took the SEE, Form 23 must be filed within one year of the date passed.
Pass a suitability review. The applicant must not be deemed incompetent or disreputable as described in Circular 230 §10.51. See IRM 1.25.2.3.1 for more information about suitability reviews.
1.25.2.1.1.2 (05-31-2017)
An IRS contractor administers the Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) between May and February every year.
Applicants may schedule an exam by accessing the testing vendor’s website, calling the testing vendor’s telephone help line, or submitting Form 2587.
An applicant must have a PTIN to take the SEE (the PTIN is used as the SEE Candidate Number).
Former IRS employees may not be required to take the SEE in order to become an EA (see IRM 1.25.2.1.1.3 for details).
1.25.2.1.1.3 (05-31-2017)
Former IRS employees qualify for a waiver of the enrollment examination and obtain enrollment status if they:
Apply for enrollment within three years of their separation date from the IRS.
Had a minimum of five years of continuous employment with the IRS in which they regularly engaged in applying and interpreting the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and regulations relating to income, estate, gift, employment, or excise taxes.
Meet the technical qualifications required under Circular 230 §10.4 which include having a minimum of five consecutive years of technical qualifying experience or an aggregate of 10 years or more of IRS employment in positions involving the application and interpretation of the Internal Revenue Code, of which at least three years have occurred within the five years preceding the date of application.
Have not engaged in conduct that would justify the suspension or disbarment of any practitioner. Disreputable conduct is outlined in Circular 230 §10.51.
A former employee will qualify for either unlimited or limited enrollment status.
To qualify for unlimited enrollment, a former employee must have the required experience and training in both examination and collection matters.
Former employees not qualifying for unlimited enrollment may be eligible for either examination or collection limited enrollment status based upon the technical qualifications and the role they served with the IRS.
1.25.2.1.1.4 (05-31-2017)
Enrollment Renewals
EAs and ERPAs are required to renew their enrollment every three years. To renew enrollment, EAs and ERPAs must:
Have a valid PTIN (EAs only).
Attest that the required continuing education (CE) hours were completed. See IRM 1.25.2.2.5.4 for the CE requirements.
Submit Form 8554 or Form 8554-EP, as applicable.
Pay the application renewal fee.
Pass a suitability review. The applicant must not be deemed incompetent or disreputable as described in Circular 230 §10.51. See IRM 1.25.2.3.2 for additional information about suitability determinations.
The last digit of an EA's Social Security Number (SSN) determines the year of renewal; therefore, the first renewal cycle after enrollment may be shorter than three years. See the table below.
The enrollment period runs through March 31 of the third year following renewal.
The issue date for new enrollment cards is April 1 of the year of renewal.
IF the SSN ends in
Renew between
0, 1, 2 or 3 November 1, 2018 and January 31, 2019
4, 5 or 6 November 1, 2016 and January 31, 2017
7, 8, 9 or no SSN November 1, 2017 and January 31, 2018
For ERPAs:
The renewal application period begins on April 1 and ends on June 30 every third year subsequent to initial enrollment.
The enrollment period runs through September 30 of the third year following renewal.
The issue date for new enrollment cards is October 1 of the year of renewal.
1.25.2.1.2 (05-31-2017)
Treasury Department Circular Number 230, Regulations Governing Practice before the Internal Revenue Service, or “Circular 230”, provides the authority to regulate individuals who practice before the IRS:
1.25.2.1.3 (05-31-2017)
The EAP&M director is the senior manager responsible for oversight of the enrolled practitioner program.
The RPO Suitability director is the senior manager responsible for suitability determinations within the enrolled practitioner program.
The EAP&M and RPO Suitability managers are responsible for ensuring the program instructions are communicated to and carried out by the proper employees.
The EAP&M Legal Instrument Examiners (LIEs) are responsible for processing enrollment applications and renewals, and answering inquiries from program participants.
The RPO Suitability analysts are responsible for performing the applicable suitability checks on enrollment and renewal applications.
1.25.2.1.4 (05-31-2017)
Two quality assurance activities are in place to ensure the EA/ERPA program meets its objectives:
Enrolled Practitioner Helpline quality reviews. A quality review team regularly monitors a randomly selected sample of telephone calls placed to the Helpline, listening for adherence to the policies and procedures in this section.
Suitability quality reviews. A quality review team regularly checks the activities performed by RPO Suitability related to the enrollment program for adherence to the policies and procedures in this section.
The review teams record their results in the National Quality Review System (NQRS) and generate regular reports for management.
1.25.2.1.5 (05-31-2017)
ALERTS - Automated Labor Employee Relations Tracking System
EAP&M - Enrolled Agent Policy & Management office
LIE - Legal Instrument Examiner
OPR - Office of Professional Responsibility
RPO - Return Preparer Office
SEE - Special Enrollment Examination
TIGTA - Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
1.25.2.1.6 (05-31-2017)
RPO website at http://irweb.irs.gov/AboutIRS/bu/rpo/default.aspx
OPR disciplinary website at http://nhq.no.irs.gov/OPR/Practice/Disciplined%20Practitioners.asp
IRM 1.25.1, Rules Governing Practice Before the IRS
1.25.2.2 (05-31-2017)
Responsibilities of Enrolled Agent Policy & Management (EAP&M)
EAP&M processes Forms 23, determines basic eligibility, and issues enrollment cards and certificates to all applicants who qualify for EA status.
EAP&M also processes Forms 8554 and Forms 8554-EP for renewal of enrollment.
1.25.2.2.1 (05-31-2017)
Work Priorities and Cycle Times
Work priorities are set by management and vary depending on the time of year. Generally, priorities are as follows:
Lockbox mail and discovered remittances should be processed within 24 hours of receipt in EAP&M. See IRM 1.25.2.2.2.1 for processing instructions.
Forms 23 should be processed within 60 days of receipt in EAP&M and Forms 8554/Forms 8554-EP should be processed within 90 days of receipt in EAP&M, unless an extended review is required.
Correspondence should be processed within 30 days of receipt in EAP&M.
Undelivered mail should be handled within two weeks.
During December through March, undelivered mail is a lower priority and may be addressed within 30 days of receipt.
1.25.2.2.2 (05-31-2017)
Receipt and Control of Incoming Mail
Incoming mail includes general correspondence and lockbox mail (application and renewal forms, checks and money orders).
Handle incoming mail as follows:
Retrieve mail from the mail room at least once per day.
Within 24 hours of retrieval, open and date-stamp each piece of mail.
Separate EA/ERPA correspondence for input to E-Trak, and sort all other mail by type.
Correspondence often includes requests for action or information. For examples of the types of requests and how to resolve them, see Exhibit 1.25.2-1.
1.25.2.2.2.1 (05-31-2017)
Processing Lockbox Mail
EAP&M receives a daily Batch and Deposit Totals Lockbox Report from the lockbox contractor. This report must be reviewed as top priority to ensure that all EA/ERPA fees and deposits match the attached applications.
Report any lockbox item received without a transmittal document to the manager, who will initiate contact with the contractor to resolve the situation.
Work from the top of the list down to verify that each payment was received and is the correct amount.
Place a checkmark on the right side of the report to show the application and payment were correctly received and applied.
After all transactions on the report have been verified, sign and date the transmittal and mark it "complete."
Place a copy of the completed report in the appropriate binder.
If the transmittal contains a payment that does not belong in EAP&M:
Contact the sender to advise that EAP&M received the payment in error.
Send a memo to Beckley Finance Center, with a copy of the related correspondence, requesting the money be moved to the correct appropriation.
Forward the original correspondence to the appropriate IRS area for handling.
1.25.2.2.2.2 (05-31-2017)
Applicants occasionally mail payments directly to EAP&M. These payments are classified as "discovered remittances."
EAP&M must deposit discovered remittances within 24 hours of receipt using overnight mail, as follows:
Send checks or money orders drawn from U.S. funds to the lockbox contractor at:
US Treasury/Enrollment
19220 Normandie Ave., Suite B
Send checks or money orders drawn from international funds to:
IRS Beckley Finance Center
Attn: OF:CFO:I:BFC
Attach a Form 3210, Document Transmittal, when sending payments:
Group multiple remittances on one Form 3210.
Enter the applicant’s full name, the dollar amount, and the applicant’s enrollment number, if applicable.
Prepare a copy for the lockbox contractor or Beckley Finance Center.
Prepare another copy for the "Discovered Remittance" binder.
If a discovered remittance is non-negotiable, take the following actions:
Mark the check "VOID" .
Generate a Bad Check/Missing Payment Letter to advise the applicant of the situation.
Update E-Trak with the activity (Bad Check/Insufficient Funds) and input the note "Live check received/form unprocessable" .
1.25.2.2.3 (05-31-2017)
E-Trak Practitioner (E-Trak)
E-Trak Practitioner (E-Trak) is the system used to capture data from EA/ERPA enrollment and renewal applications.
These applications are entered into E-Trak electronically through the Pay.gov interface, or manually from paper applications received via the lockbox or mailed to the EAP&M unit.
1.25.2.2.4 (05-31-2017)
Enrollment is requested by submitting Form 23 or applying online at Pay.gov. Electronic applications migrate directly into E-Trak to create a data record; EAP&M staff manually enters data from paper applications into E-Trak.
A list of individuals who passed the examination is loaded into E-Trak on a regular basis through a file transfer from the testing contractor after the applicant passes all three parts of the examination.. This creates an indicator that a new applicant has passed the examination.
E-Trak automatically links an application record with the applicant’s examination record.
1.25.2.2.4.1 (05-31-2017)
E-Trak generates an Unprocessable Application Report for all enrollment applications that cannot be linked to an examination record.
For applications on the report, verify the lack of an examination record by reviewing the Pay.gov record to locate the identifying information, such as a PTIN or name, and then attempting to locate the examination record in E-Trak using the same identifier.
If no examination record exists in E-Trak, review Form 23 to determine if the applicant is a former IRS employee. A former employee indicator is located at the top of the form.
If the applicant is a former employee, update E-Trak to show the applicant’s eligibility as "FE" , then continue processing the application according to IRM 1.25.2.2.4.3.
If the applicant is not a former employee and there is no examination record for the applicant, follow the instructions in IRM 1.25.2.2.4.3.
1.25.2.2.4.2 (05-31-2017)
On a daily basis, E-Trak sends an email to the EAP&M manager showing the new enrollment applications that have been loaded from Pay.gov.
The EAP&M manager uses this list of electronic applications, plus any incoming paper Forms 23, to assign inventory to the EAP&M Legal Instrument Examiners (LIEs).
Applications are generally batched for assignment in groups of 25. During low volume times, work may be batched in smaller quantities.
1.25.2.2.4.3 (05-31-2017)
LIEs should process Forms 23 within 60 days of receipt, unless a referral to RPO Suitability is necessary. See IRM 1.25.2.2.8 for criteria requiring a referral to RPO Suitability.
Upon being assigned an application, ensure that all information has been accurately transferred from the application into the E-Trak record.
Review the application for the following criteria:
Completeness Confirm that the application contains all required information.
Valid PTIN Research IDRS, command code RPVUE.
Examination Passage Search E-Trak for an examination record.
Suitability Search for a finding that may cause the applicant to be unsuitable.
Note if the applicant responded "Yes" to questions 8, 9, 10, or 11. Confirm that required documentation is attached.
Search the OPR disciplinary website at http://nhq.no.irs.gov/OPR/Practice/Disciplined%20Practitioners.asp to determine if the applicant was the subject of prior disciplinary action.
Consider any prior enrollment activity found in E-Trak.
If all application criteria are met, then the application is complete and enrollment can be granted. Route the application to the queue for issuance of enrollment card.
For any unmet application criteria, perform any additional research that may resolve the issue(s). Also determine if contact with the applicant is necessary to resolve the issue(s). This may involve requesting additional documentation. Follow guidance in IRM 1.25.2.2.7 to obtain missing information.
If the applicant has self-identified as a former IRS employee, also perform steps in IRM 1.25.2.2.6.
After resolving or attempting to resolve all unmet application criteria, indicate whether all criteria have been met by checking Yes or No in E-Trak.
If the only unmet application criterion is suitability, route the application to RPO Suitability following instructions in IRM 1.25.2.2.8.
If any application criteria other than suitability are not met, consider the applicant to be ineligible for enrollment. Follow instructions for ineligible applicants in IRM 1.25.2.2.4.4.
1.25.2.2.4.4 (05-31-2017)
If any application criteria other than suitability are not met, update the application status to "Ineligible" in E-Trak and issue an Ineligible letter.
The applicant has 30 days to respond to the Ineligible letter. Suspend the file and flag E-Trak for monitoring.
After the 30-day period has expired:
a response to an Ineligible letter is received and resolves the unmet application criteria, continue processing the application for enrollment.
a response to the Ineligible letter is received but does not resolve the unmet criteria, note in E-Trak the information received and reason it does not resolve ineligibility.
no response to the Ineligible letter is received, no action is necessary.
An EA/ERPA who was ineligible to practice before the IRS due to an ongoing disciplinary sanction must meet all enrollment requirements before eligibility can be restored.
1.25.2.2.4.5 (05-31-2017)
Generating and Issuing New Enrollment Cards, Certificates, and Letters
Generally, all cards for new applicants are generated in bulk on a daily basis, or as necessary, using E-Trak.
Between October 1 and October 31, check the last digit of the applicant’s SSN to determine if he or she is due for renewal in the upcoming renewal cycle. If so, delay final processing until November 1st to avoid the applicant having to apply for renewal in the upcoming cycle.
To generate the cards, take the following actions in E-Trak:
Mark the Suitability Requirements as Met.
Mark the CE Requirements as Met.
Enter the beginning date of the correct cycle (04/01/YYYY).
Select "Active" status.
Select Print Enrollment Granted Activity and save.
Confirm that the enrollment status and cycle are correct.
1.25.2.2.5 (05-31-2017)
Enrollment is renewed either by submitting Form 8554/Form 8554-EP or online via Pay.gov.
In late October or early November of each year, RPO issues a reminder notice via email to all EAs who are due for renewal in the upcoming cycle.
Failure to receive the reminder notice is not justification for failure to file a renewal application [Circular 230 §10.6(d)(1)].
EAs/ERPAs who do not renew timely cannot continue to practice before the IRS.
1.25.2.2.5.1 (05-31-2017)
Unprocessable Renewal Applications
E-Trak generates an Unprocessable Application Report for all renewal applications that cannot be linked to an existing record in E-Trak.
For applications on the report, verify the lack of an E-Trak record by reviewing the Pay.gov record to locate the name and enrollment number and then attempting to locate the record in E-Trak using those same identifiers. The SSN may also be used as an identifier.
Whether or not the E-Trak record is located, continue processing the application for renewal according to IRM 1.25.2.2.5.3.
1.25.2.2.5.2 (05-31-2017)
On a daily basis, E-Trak sends an email to the EAP&M manager showing the renewal applications that have been loaded into Pay.gov.
The manager uses this list of electronic renewal applications, plus any incoming paper Forms 8554/Forms 8554-EP, to assign inventory to the EAP&M Legal Instrument Examiners (LIEs).
1.25.2.2.5.3 (05-31-2017)
LIEs should process Forms 8554/Forms 8554-EP within 90 days of receipt, unless a referral to RPO Suitability is necessary. See IRM 1.25.2.2.8 for criteria requiring a referral to RPO Suitability.
Verify the following information on E-Trak and update as necessary:
Valid PTIN (EAs only) Research IDRS, command code RPVUE
See IRM 1.25.2.2.5.4 for CE requirements.
Verify that the correct number of total hours are listed.
Verify that the correct number of ethics hours are listed.
Using the testing contractor database, determine if the applicant retook and passed the examination in order to get CE hours. Passage of the examination accounts for 56 hours of CE.
Note if the applicant responded "Yes" to questions 7, 8, 9, or 10. Confirm that required documentation is attached.
Search the OPR disciplinary website at http://nhq.no.irs.gov/OPR/Practice/Disciplined%20Practitioners.asp to determine if the applicant was the subject of a disciplinary action.
Consider any activity found in the E-Trak record that may impact suitability.
If all application criteria are met, the renewal process is complete. Route the application to the queue for issuance of new enrollment card.
For any unmet application criteria, determine if contact with the applicant is necessary to resolve the issue(s). This may involve requesting additional documentation. Follow guidance in IRM 1.25.2.2.7 to obtain missing information.
After resolving or attempting to resolve all unmet application criteria, indicate whether all application criteria have been met by checking Yes or No in E-Trak.
If the only unmet criterion is suitability, route the application to RPO Suitability following instructions in IRM 1.25.2.2.8. Also route the application to the queue for issuance of a new enrollment card (renewed enrollment cards are issued even if the application requires further review by RPO Suitability).
If the applicant checked the Suspended or Disbarred status box in Part 1 of the application, do not refer it to RPO Suitability. Instead, refer it to the EAP&M manager, who will contact the applicant to advise that no new enrollment card will be issued until the suspension or disbarment is lifted.
If any application criteria other than suitability are not met, no action is required. The applicant will be considered inactive once the renewal period expires, and will receive a systemically-generated Inactive letter.
1.25.2.2.5.4 (05-31-2017)
During each continuing education (CE) year, which runs from January 1 through December 31, an EA/ERPA must take a minimum of 16 hours of CE, including at least two hours of ethics or professional conduct training. An EA/ERPA must complete at least 72 hours of CE during the three-year enrollment cycle.
EAs/ERPAs who are renewing for the first time are required to take two hours of CE for each month enrolled, including the month of enrollment. This must include at least two hours of ethics training per year.
Enrollment for any part of a month is considered enrollment for the entire month, and enrollment for any part of a year is considered enrollment for the entire year.
EAs who retook the SEE at any time since their last renewal are only required to take 16 hours of CE during the last year of the renewal cycle, because passage of the SEE is worth 56 CE hours.
1.25.2.2.5.5 (05-31-2017)
Circular 230 §10.6(i) allows for a waiver of the CE requirement for a given period of time if the EA/ERPA requests the waiver and provides documentation to support the request. A request for waiver must be filed no later than the last day of the renewal application period (January 31 for EAs; June 30 for ERPAs). The authority to approve these requests is delegated to the EAP&M Manager.
A waiver may be granted due to:
A health condition that prevented compliance with the CE requirements.
Extended active military duty.
Absence from the United States due to employment or other reasons, provided the individual does not practice before the IRS during such absence.
Any other compelling reason, to be determined on a case-by-case basis.
To process a waiver request:
Determine if the request is timely.
Determine if a related Form 8554/Form 8554-EP has been received and, if so, associate it with the request.
Review the reason for requesting a waiver, plus any supporting documentation, and determine if together they justify waiving the CE requirement.
Supporting documentation such as medical documents or military orders may be requested, if necessary.
Use the following table to determine the next actions:
the request is timely, the explanation and documentation supports a waiver,
prepare an EA/ERPA CE Waiver Approved letter.
send the letter to EAP&M manager for approval and signature.
after approval, issue the letter to the EA/ERPA.
continue processing Form 8554/Form 8554-EP.
the request is timely, the explanation does not support a waiver,
prepare an EA/ERPA CE Waiver Denial letter.
send the letter to the EAP&M manager for approval and signature.
the request is not timely,
forward to the EAP&M manager for approval and signature.
1.25.2.2.5.6 (05-31-2017)
Inactive Retirement Status
An EA/ERPA may request to be placed into "Inactive Retirement" status by checking the box on Form 8554/Form 8554-EP. Neither EAs nor ERPAs are required to maintain CE while in "Inactive Retirement" status; however, they are still required to complete the application form and pay the renewal fee each cycle they remain in this status. An EA/ERPA in "Inactive Retirement" status is no longer authorized to practice before the IRS.
If an EA/ERPA requests "Inactive Retirement" status, check the OPR website for an active disciplinary investigation.
If there is an active disciplinary investigation, refer the request to the EAP&M manager to determine the appropriate resolution.
If there is no active disciplinary investigation, change the enrollee’s status to "Inactive Retirement" and send Letter 5512 advising of the change. Do not issue a new enrollment card.
1.25.2.2.5.7 (05-31-2017)
Generating and Issuing Renewed Enrollment Cards
Generally, all cards are generated in bulk on a daily basis throughout the renewal cycle. Cards for practitioners with limited status are generated separately.
To generate the cards, take the following actions in the E-Trak Renewal Activity Screens:
Enter the beginning date of the renewal cycle as 04/01/YYYY;
Select "Active" status;
Select Print Renewal Acceptance Activity and save.
Ensure that the enrollment status and cycle are correct.
1.25.2.2.6 (05-31-2017)
If an EA applicant is a former IRS employee:
Research the Automated Labor Employee Relations Tracking System (ALERTS) for evidence of a conduct or performance issue with the former employee. If there is no record, note in E-Trak. If ALERTS displays a report, print the report and scan it into E-Trak.
Access the Treasury Integrated Management Information Systems (TIMIS) to review the applicant’s job history and qualifications. Print the job history and scan it into E-Trak.
Request a records check from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) to determine if the employee is or was the subject of a TIGTA investigation. Follow instructions in IRM 1.25.2.2.6.1.
Refer the applicant to RPO Suitability for an eligibility determination. See IRM 1.25.2.2.8.
If the application was submitted within 45 days of the former employee’s separation from the IRS, place the application into suspense and monitor it weekly until the separation date can be confirmed. Note E-Trak with all activity.
RPO Suitability will recommend either enrollment or denial. Process the application accordingly.
1.25.2.2.6.1 (05-31-2017)
TIGTA Record Check
Prepare a memorandum to TIGTA that includes the applicant’s full name, SSN, and the current date.
The request must be made within 72 hours of the Form 23 received date.
E-mail the memorandum via secure messaging to the designated TIGTA representative.
Print a copy of the memo and place it in suspense pending TIGTA’s response. Update E-Trak to show the date sent.
When TIGTA responds, print the memo and scan it into E-Trak.
If the applicant has no prior or current TIGTA investigation, the response will state “no records found” or "no unfavorable information." Note E-Trak with "no negative issue."
If the applicant has a prior or current TIGTA investigation, the response will state “requested from Record Center,” "Copy to be Mailed" , or "Case Pending." Update E-Trak accordingly.
TIGTA will send a Report of Investigation directly to RPO Suitability.
1.25.2.2.7 (05-31-2017)
If required information is missing on an application, use the guidance in the following table to attempt to find the information using internal resources. If internal research is unsuccessful, follow guidance in IRM 1.25.2.2.7.1 to contact the applicant.
If the application is missing the:
IDRS command code NAME with definer S
E-Trak, for renewal applicants
IDRS command code INOLE with definer S
IDRS command code ENMOD, or INOLE with definer S
IDRS command code RPVUE
Tax Preparer PTIN System (TPPS) - contact team lead or manager for assistance
Required continuing education hours No research possible; contact applicant for the information.
Answers and attachments to:
Question 8, 9, 10 or 11 for Form 23;
Question 7,8,9, or 10 for Form 8554 No research possible; contact applicant for the information.
1.25.2.2.7.1 (05-31-2017)
Telephone and Email Requests for Missing Information
If the missing information was not located via research, attempt to contact the applicant two times during a 48-hour period via telephone or email.
When sending an email message to an applicant, include your name and IRS badge number, but exclude the applicant's personally identifiable information (PII) from both the subject line and body of the email.
Wait two business days for the applicant to respond. If the applicant does not respond, place a second telephone call or send a second email message.
Wait three additional business days for the applicant to respond. If the applicant does not respond, follow instructions in IRM 1.25.2.2.7.2 to issue a written request.
Save any new documentation from the applicant in .pdf format and upload to E-Trak along with any related notations.
Update E-Trak as necessary.
1.25.2.2.7.2 (05-31-2017)
Letter Requests for Missing Information
If there is no response to the attempted telephone or email contacts:
Select the appropriate missing item from the E-Trak sub-menu. This will generate a Missing Information letter.
Print and mail the letter.
Update E-Trak and the Case Checklist.
Suspend the case pending a response from the applicant.
If the missing information is proof of CE, then the applicant has 60 days from the date of the letter to respond. For all other missing information, the applicant has 14 days from the date of the letter to respond.
If a response is received timely, attach the correspondence to the application, scan and upload it to E-Trak, and continue with processing.
If a response is not received timely, the application cannot be processed any further. To complete the review, follow instructions in IRM 1.25.2.2.4.3 for new enrollments or in IRM 1.25.2.2.5.3 for renewals.
1.25.2.2.8 (05-31-2017)
Referrals to RPO Suitability
A referral to RPO Suitability is required when an applicant:
is a former IRS employee;
answers "Yes" to question 8, 9, 10 or 11 on Form 23, or to question 7, 8, 9, or 10 on Form 8554/Form 8554-EP; or
has a disciplinary action identified on the OPR website.
For each referral, E-Trak should contain the following documents:
Form 23 or Form 8554/Form 8554-EP
Additional documents obtained through research
Screenshots showing any relevant information
Any correspondence or documentation submitted by the candidate
If the applicant is a former employee, the TIMIS and ALERTS data, and TIGTA memo request.
Update E-Trak to note "Activity - Form 23 or Form 8554/Form 8554-EP application record sent to RPO Suitability for further review."
The Lead LIE will route the E-Trak record to the RPO Suitability group manager.
Monitor the referral every 60 days.
1.25.2.2.8.1 (05-31-2017)
Determinations made by RPO Suitability
When RPO Suitability has completed work on a referred application, they will notify EAP&M of the final determination, including instances when the case was ultimately decided by OPR.
If enrollment is granted, complete the enrollment or renewal process in E-Trak. If an enrollment card has not yet been issued, route the application to the queue for issuance of a new enrollment card.
If enrollment is denied, RPO Suitability will complete all necessary actions.
1.25.2.2.9 (05-31-2017)
The Enrolled Practitioner Helpline
The IRS has a dedicated Enrolled Practitioner Helpline (“the Helpline”) for anyone with questions about applying for or maintaining EA or ERPA status. The Helpline number is posted online at https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/enrolled-agents/contact-the-office-of-enrollment. Hours of operation are Monday – Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time.
The Helpline is staffed by LIEs, with at least one LIE available during all hours of operation.
1.25.2.2.9.1 (05-31-2017)
Customers expect timely, accurate and professional service. The way employees handle a call affects the way customers perceive the IRS; it is vital that each call be managed pleasantly and efficiently.
When answering the Helpline:
Address the caller by title and last name (Mr. Jones or Ms. Smith). Use courteous phrases such as "Thank you, Mr. Jones" , "Thank you for holding" or other appropriate expressions.
Listen attentively and show a willingness to resolve the problem.
Allow the caller to finish his or her question or statement. Apologize for any interruptions or misunderstandings.
Avoid all distractions when handling a call.
1.25.2.2.9.2 (05-31-2017)
Greet the caller immediately, stating the name of the department, your title (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss), your last name and your ID number.
Employees must provide their 10-digit SmartID Number when communicating with taxpayers. Every employee has a SmartID Number in order to comply with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12.
Listen carefully to the caller’s questions and/or concerns.
Apologize for any clear or certain IRS error. Ask pertinent questions and pay close attention to the responses; this will help determine exactly how to help the caller. Paraphrase the caller’s statements, if needed, to ensure you have identified the issue.
Research E-Trak and other applicable systems to determine the best resolution. Address all of the caller’s questions and issues to avoid multiple calls back to the Helpline. This includes issues that are not raised by the caller, but are evident from looking at the E-Trak record.
When it is necessary to put a caller on hold, ask permission first, and wait for a response. Always use the Hold button, not the Mute button, when placing a caller on hold. Do not keep the caller on hold for more than three minutes without checking back with the caller and providing a status of the call.
If it appears the research is going to take more than a few minutes, let the caller know you need additional time to research, review or locate the information. Obtain the caller’s telephone number and advise him or her you will call back within the next two business days.
Provide the caller with a suitable answer or resolution, and advise the caller of any actions he or she must take to help resolve the problem.
To indicate closure, ask the caller if all questions and needs have been addressed.
If accessing the caller’s E-Trak record, enter notes about the call in the E-Trak case history, including the issue(s), answers provided, and any actions taken.
1.25.2.2.9.3 (05-31-2017)
Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of the caller. A caller must provide certain data before you can disclose sensitive information such as personally identifiable information (PII) or the status of an enrollment application. General disclosure information is located in IRM 11.3, Disclosure of Official Information. Also, the website http://discl.web.irs.gov/Default.asp provides guidance on releasing sensitive data.
The Disclosure Help Desk telephone number located on the website is for employee use only.
Before accessing and releasing information from E-Trak, IDRS or other systems containing sensitive information, ask the caller for the following identifying data and compare it to what is in the E-Trak record:
Enrollment number or SSN or PTIN
1.25.2.2.9.4 (05-31-2017)
EAP&M frequently receives phone calls from EAs/ERPAs requesting information about their accounts or general information about the enrollment program. Third parties also call to inquire about the enrollment status of a specific individual.
For a list of common call topics and how to respond to each, refer to Exhibit 1.25.2-3.
1.25.2.2.9.5 (05-31-2017)
If the subject matter of a caller’s question or concern is not handled within EAP&M, do not try to provide information. Instead, refer the caller to the appropriate IRS or RPO function, or to irs.gov for general information.
When referring a caller to another office, always provide that office’s phone number and hours of operation.
1.25.2.2.9.6 (05-31-2017)
Wrap time is the time used by an employee to finish work related to a call after the call has been disconnected. While in wrap time, the employee is unavailable to take another call.
Attempt to complete all actions related to a call, including entering account history notes, before the call is disconnected. Wrap time should be minimal except in rare instances, such as when the caller is unable to stay on the line or the call prematurely disconnects.
1.25.2.3 (05-31-2017)
Responsibilities of Return Preparer Office Suitability
Enrollment and renewal applications may require evaluation beyond that performed by EAP&M. The Return Preparer Office Suitability unit (RPO Suitability) is responsible for:
Suitability determinations for new enrollments
Suitability determinations for renewals
Former employee determinations
Handling of appeals of enrollment and renewal denials
1.25.2.3.1 (05-31-2017)
Suitability Determinations - New Enrollments
A suitability check is required on each EA applicant to determine if the applicant meets the requirements of Circular 230 §10.5(d)(1). A basic suitability check includes identification of issues self-reported in questions 8, 9, 10, or 11 on Form 23.
EAP&M performs the basic suitability check upon receipt of the application.
RPO Suitability will receive an applicant referral from EAP&M when the applicant answered "Yes" to any of the above questions or a disciplinary action is found on the OPR disciplinary website. Referrals from EAP&M to RPO Suitability will be made as outlined in IRM 1.25.2.2.8.
Upon receiving a referral from EAP&M, using all available and applicable research tools such as approved criminal background check websites, search for information about the applicant.
Determine if the applicant behaved in a way deemed to be incompetent or disreputable as outlined in Circular 230 §10.51, and therefore whether enrollment should be denied. Examples of disqualifying conduct include but are not limited to conviction of a felony, financial crime or tax fraud.
After completing the evaluation, use the following table to determine the next steps:
no additional information is needed, the applicant is deemed suitable for enrollment, approve enrollment by noting in E-Trak that the investigation is complete, and transfer the application back to EAP&M to complete processing.
no additional information is needed, the applicant is deemed unsuitable for enrollment, issue a Notice of Proposed Denial (NOPD) with a response date of 30 days from the date of the letter.
additional information is needed from the applicant, issue a Notice of Proposed Denial (NOPD) with a response date of 30 days from the date of the letter.
If the applicant does not respond to the NOPD, or the information provided does not change the adjudication, issue a Notice of Denial (NOD). Follow instructions in IRM 1.25.2.3.4 for the next steps.
1.25.2.3.2 (05-31-2017)
Suitability Determinations - Renewals
A suitability check is required on each EA/ERPA renewal applicant to determine if the applicant still meets the requirements of Circular 230 §10.5(d)(1). A basic suitability check includes identification of issues self-reported in questions 7, 8, 9, or 10 of Form 8554/Form 8554-EP.
RPO Suitability will receive an applicant referral from EAP&M when the applicant answered "Yes" to any of the above questions or found disciplinary activity on the OPR website. Referrals from EAP&M to RPO Suitability will be made as outlined in IRM 1.25.2.2.8.
Determine if the applicant behaved in a way deemed to be incompetent or disreputable as outlined in Circular 230 §10.51, and therefore whether renewal should be denied. Examples of disqualifying conduct include but are not limited to conviction of a felony, financial crime or tax fraud.
no additional information is needed, the applicant is deemed suitable for renewal, approve enrollment by noting in E-Trak that the investigation is complete.
no additional information is needed, the applicant is deemed unsuitable for renewal, inform the applicant in writing that the renewal application is being referred to OPR. The letter must be approved by the group manager or lead suitability analyst.
additional information is needed from the applicant, follow guidance in IRM 1.25.2.3.2.1 for requesting additional information.
Enter all additional information, documentation and decisions into E-Trak as the work is being performed.
1.25.2.3.2.1 (05-31-2017)
This section describes the ad hoc letters that are issued to an applicant when additional information is needed to make a suitability determination. Ad hoc letters will be used until standard letters are available. All ad hoc letters must be approved by the group manager or lead suitability analyst.
First request letter: Request the necessary information. Allow 30 days for a response, plus an additional five days for mailing purposes.
Second request letter: If the applicant does not respond to the first letter, repeat the request for information. Allow 15 days for a response, plus an additional five days for mailing purposes.
Notification of referral to OPR: If the applicant does not respond to the second letter, or if the applicant provides information but is still not considered suitable for enrollment or renewal, then the applicant must be referred to OPR. Issue a letter notifying the applicant of the referral and prepare the file for OPR as outlined in IRM 1.25.2.3.5.
Resolution letter: If at any point after issuing a letter, an applicant provides information and is deemed suitable for enrollment or renewal, inform the applicant that the matter has been resolved and enrollment or renewal will be granted.
1.25.2.3.3 (05-31-2017)
RPO Suitability evaluates all Forms 23 from former IRS employees to ensure the applicant meets the requirements of Circular 230 §10.5(d)(1) and to determine the appropriate level of enrollment (full, limited or none).
Referrals of former employee applications will come from EAP&M to RPO Suitability as outlined in IRM 1.25.2.2.8.
Upon receiving an E-Trak email notification that a former employee application has been assigned, review the TIMIS report to verify the IRS separation date entered on the application. A former employee must apply for enrollment within three years of separation to receive a waiver of the Special Enrollment Examination (SEE).
Review the TIMIS report for the applicant’s technical qualifications. The position(s) held and time in grade will determine eligibility for a waiver of the SEE and the type of enrollment (unlimited or limited).
See the Former Employee Examination Waiver Positions Matrix in Exhibit 1.25.2-2 for a list of positions that qualify for a waiver. Also, Standard Position Descriptions are located at https://organization.ds.irsnet.gov/sites/HCOETS/PMC/SPDLibrary/SitePages/Home.aspx.
Review the ALERTS report and determine if there is any evidence of a conduct or performance issue that would cause denial of enrollment.
If TIGTA returned a report for the applicant, review it for any information that would cause denial of enrollment. Information that may cause denial of enrollment includes, but is not limited to, a serious employee conduct issue that raises a question of the applicant’s integrity, such as a UNAX violation. This is a subjective determination.
After considering all information, determine if enrollment should be granted. Follow guidance in the table in IRM 1.25.2.3.1. to complete the evaluation.
1.25.2.3.4 (05-31-2017)
Appeals of Enrollment Denial
After RPO Suitability issues a Notice of Denial (NOD) for a new enrollment, the applicant has 30 days from the date of the notice to submit an appeal. Appeals are decided by OPR.
A written appeal should adequately address all relevant issues; it should include reasons and/or documentation to support the applicant’s claim that the denial should be reversed.
Review any new documents submitted with the appeal; this may lead to a reconsideration of the original decision. If the original denial of enrollment is changed, prepare a summary in E-Trak of the information considered on appeal and the basis for the change.
If enrollment is approved based on the new information:
Update E-Trak with information regarding approval.
Scan all additional documents including correspondence with the applicant into E-Trak.
Issue a notice to the applicant that enrollment has been approved.
Submit the case file to the group manager for concurrence.
After concurrence, close the file and notify EAP&M of the final determination.
If the decision remains to deny enrollment, continue with preparation of the Appeal Memo to OPR. Refer to IRM 1.25.2.3.5 for making a referral to OPR.
1.25.2.3.5 (05-31-2017)
Referrals to the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR)
OPR makes the final determination on all appeals of initial enrollment denials, and all renewal denials.
To refer a case to OPR, prepare a memorandum from the Director of RPO Suitability to the OPR Supervisory Attorney-Adviser. The memo must provide a summary of RPO’s determination, and all background and facts gathered during the review.
Create a referral package that includes scanned copies of:
All letters sent by RPO Suitability to the applicant
All correspondence and documents submitted by the applicant
All research materials
All of the above documents should be uploaded into E-Trak as well.
Email the case file to the OPR mailbox at *OPR Referrals with a copy to the OPR Supervisory Attorney-Adviser.
If RPO Suitability receives information from the applicant after referral to OPR, the suitability analyst will review it and make a determination to grant or deny renewal. If there is no change to the initial denial, the analyst must scan and transmit the new information to OPR.
OPR will respond directly to the applicant with a decision on appeal and send a copy of the decision to RPO Suitability. Upon receipt of the decision:
If OPR upholds the denial, RPO Suitability will update E-Trak, noting the final decision and uploading the transmittal memo to RPO.
If OPR recommends that enrollment or renewal be granted, the RPO Suitability group manager or analyst will notify EAP&M of the decision. EAP&M will complete the enrollment or renewal process and issue the card and/or certificate as necessary.
Exhibit 1.25.2-1
Responding to Written Requests and Other Correspondence
EA/ERPA case file information Release case file information to the EA/ERPA only, and never to a third party. Case file information includes the documents or reports used to determine enrollment status, such as copies of TIMIS, ALERTS, and TIGTA investigation reports, position descriptions, and correspondence between EAP&M and the applicant.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests Send all FOIA requests to RPO Strategy & Policy, who will provide guidance for fulfilling the request.
Name change An EA/ERPA may request a name change on the enrollment card or certificate due to marriage, divorce or legal name change.
Accept a name change request via mail, fax or email. Legal documentation is required to support the name change.
Contact the EA/ERPA to verify the request.
Update E-Trak with the name change.
Route the E-Trak record to the queue for reprint of the certificate and/or enrollment card.
Address change Accept the address change as long as the requester provides an old address that matches the address in E-Trak.
New enrollment card or certificate Grant all requests for a new enrollment card or certificate due to name change, or lost or stolen card/certificate. Before issuing a new card/certificate, verify the enrollment status and date of expiration. Note the reason for the request in E-Trak.
Terminate, retire or place into voluntary inactive status
For a termination or retirement request, send a letter to the EA/ERPA to confirm that the request was honored, and update E- Trak to reflect the new status.
For a voluntary inactive status request, contact OPR to inquire if the EA/ERPA is the subject of disciplinary action. If not, then update E-Trak to reflect the new status.
CE waiver Scan all information into E- Trak and forward to the EAP&M manager for assignment and review.
Refund of application fees Requests for a refund of application fees must be made via mail, fax or email, including the reason for the request. Route the request to the lead LIE to determine the correct course of action. Decisions will be reviewed by the EAP&M manager for determination of reasonable cause to issue refund. Denial of a refund request cannot be appealed.
Notification of a deceased EA/ERPA Update E-Trak to terminate the enrollment record. No death certificate is required.
Complaints against Practitioners Fax the complaint to RPO Complaint Referrals, or scan and email it.
Any other correspondence from an EA/ERPA, including complaints and responses to inactivation or termination notices Send the correspondence to the group manager.
Exhibit 1.25.2-2
Former Employee Examination Waiver Position Matrix
Qualifying positions are as follows:
Position & Series & Technical Divisions
Full Working Level
Revenue Agent – GS 512 SB/SE, LB&I (field positions) GS 11 & above Limited to Examination Matters
Revenue Officer – GS 1169 SB/SE, LB&I (field positions) GS 9 & above Limited to Collection Matters
Tax Specialist – GS 526 SB/SE, W&I (field offices) GS 9 Limited to Examination Matters
Tax Law Specialist – GS 987 SB/SE, W&I, TAS, Appeals (field offices) GS 11 & above Limited to Examination Matters
Criminal Investigator – GS 1811 GS 11 & above Full enrollment
Appeals Officer – GS 930 GS 11 & above Limited to Examination Matters
Settlement Officer – GS 1169 GS 11 & above Limited to Collection Matters
Customer Service Representative – GS 962 GS 8 Not eligible for SEE waiver
Case Advocate -GS 501 – TAS (field offices) Full or limited based upon previous IRS background
Any position above which has indications of Campus locations, or positions not listed, are not eligible for a Waiver of the Special Enrollment Examination. Any working level Not eligible for SEE waiver
This list is not all-inclusive. Functional experience must include taxpayer-facing IRS positions otherwise known as field positions.
Exhibit 1.25.2-3
EA status verification
If the caller is an IRS employee: refer the employee to the RPO website (http://irweb.irs.gov/AboutIRS/bu/rpo/default.aspx).
If the caller is a third party: release only the following information:
Full name of EA
Termination of enrollment, without disclosing reason for termination
Note any third party request in the E-Trak record of the enrollee.
EA listing Refer the caller to the publicly-accessible IRS Electronic Reading Room at https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/active-enrolled-agents-and-the-freedom-of-information-act.
EA/ERPA case file information Advise the caller to make the request in writing to EAP&M.
Release case file information only to the EA/ERPA, never to a third party.
Address or name change Advise the caller to request the change by mail, fax or email (give details for all three options, unless the caller indicates a preference). Legal documentation is required to support a name change.
New enrollment card or certificate
If the prior card or certificate was lost or stolen, grant the request after verifying the caller’s enrollment status and date of expiration.
If the caller requests a new card or certificate due to a name change, verify the change has already been made in E-Trak, and verify the caller’s enrollment status and date of expiration. If the name change has not yet been made, advise the caller to request the name change in writing (see above).
Cards and certificates must be mailed; they cannot be scanned or emailed.
Note the reason for the new document(s) in E-Trak.
Assistance with applying for enrollment or renewal Refer the caller to these sites for answers to questions about the application and testing processes:
For applications, the IRS Enrolled Agent website at https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/enrolled-agents, and,
For testing, the testing vendor website.
Late renewals Explain the renewal timeframe and CE requirements. EAs renewing after March 31 are required to provide proof of CE. Proof of CE may be faxed, emailed, or mailed (give details for all three options, unless the caller indicates a preference).
Request for blank Form 23, Form 8554, Form 8554-EP Encourage the caller to apply for enrollment or renewal online at Pay.gov. If the caller does not wish to apply online, direct him or her to IRS.gov to obtain a blank form from the Forms and Publications repository. Completion and mailing instructions are on the forms.
If the caller does not have access to a computer, offer to mail the blank form.
Assistance with a SEE issue
If the caller needs information about taking the SEE, or has questions about the test results, provide the testing vendor website and/or phone number, along with hours of operation.
If the caller has a complaint about the testing process, gather details of the complaint and give the caller’s contact information to the EAP&M lead LIE, (for consideration by the Director, RPO Competency & Standards). Advise the caller that someone from the IRS will return his or her call within two business days.
Response to inactivation or termination notice Verify the status of and reason for the inactivation or termination, then:
Advise an inactive EA/ERPA that he or she may submit a renewal application and pay the applicable fees, if all requirements have been met. Requirements include holding an active PTIN (EAs only) and taking all required CE credits.
Advise a terminated EA that to become active again, he or she must:
retake and pass the SEE,
obtain or have an active PTIN (EAs only),
file a Form 23, and
Advise a terminated ERPA that he or she can no -longer take the ERPA-SEE and therefore has no remedy for the termination. Enter a note in E-Trak.
Failure to receive notification of the renewal requirement is not justification for an individual’s failure to satisfy the renewal requirements. Refer the former EA/ERPA to Circular 230 §10.6(d).
Terminate, retire or place into voluntary inactive status Advise the caller to make the request for a status change by mail, fax or email (give details for all three options, unless the caller indicates a preference.
Inactive Retirement Status requires a Form 8554/Form 8554-EP to be filed and a renewal fee to be paid each cycle.
Status of an enrollment or renewal application
For initial enrollment applications, the standard processing time is 60 days (90 days for former employees). Inform the caller of the processing time, and offer to check the account for the status.
For renewal applications, the standard processing time is 90 days. Inform the caller of the processing time and offer to check the account for the status.
Advise the caller that enrollment cards will be issued by March 31 (ERPA cards are issued September 30), and to call back if the card is not received within that timeframe.
In E-Trak, if the last status is:
current and indicating “under review,” then provide the applicant with an approximate timeframe for resolution.
not current, tell the applicant that the inquiry requires further research, and someone will return his or her call within two business days. Obtain the caller’s telephone number, and any information needed to assist caller (such as Pay.gov tracking number to locate a missing application). Conduct the necessary research, or refer the inquiry to the employee working the case, or to the lead LIE or manager if assistance is needed.
If the employee working the case is out of the office and not returning within the two-day period, elevate the inquiry to the lead LIE.
Note the E-Trak account with the issue(s) and actions taken, including the return call.
CE waiver Advise the EA/ERPA to review Circular 230, §10.6(i) to ensure he or she meets the qualifications, then submit the required information via mail, fax or email (give details for all three options, unless the caller indicates he or she prefers a specific method).
Refund of application or testing fees
For a refund of examination fees, advise the caller that the request must be made through the testing vendor. Provide the vendor’s website and/or phone number and hours of operation.
For a refund of PA application fees, advise the caller that the request must be made in writing, via mail, fax or email (provide details for all three options, unless the caller indicates he or she prefers a specific method). The request must include the reason for requesting a refund. Also advise the caller that refunds are granted only in limited circumstances.
For a refund due to overpayment, advise the caller how to request a refund, and route the request to the Lead LIE to verify the overpayment.
Notification of a deceased EA/ ERPA Advise the caller that notification of death must be made via mail, fax or email (give details for all three options, unless the caller indicates he or she prefers a specific method). No death certificate is required.
For complaints from the public, advise the caller to file the complaint on Form 14157, available at https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f14157a.pdf.
For complaints from IRS employees, advise the employee to submit a Form 8484, Suspected Practitioner Misconduct Report for the Office of Professional Responsibility, pursuant to the instructions on the OPR website at http://irweb.irs.gov/AboutIRS/bu/opr/archive/45565.aspx.