In the Beginning...

In 1972, through the pioneering efforts of David Smollan, EA, the Founding Chapter of an organization dedicated to Enrolled Agents was established in Los Angeles. Within one year, it was the largest organization of EAs in the country. This organization eventually became the National Association of Enrolled Agents.

Any history of CSEA would be incomplete without expressing our acknowledgment and appreciation of Mr. Smollan and his work on behalf of Enrolled Agents.

1976 In recognition of the need for a statewide organization of Enrolled Agents to effectively coordinate efforts on behalf of EAs and the eight California Chapters, a meeting is held in Sherman Oaks on December 15 to establish a “California Enrolled Agents Organization.” It is agreed that the key areas of attention for the Society will be Legislation, Education, Professional Standards, and Mutual Support of its Members. Ken Drake, EA, is elected first President of the new Society; Mr. Drake, who is unable to attend the meeting, accepts the nomination by telephone.

1977 The California Society of Enrolled Agents is incorporated. As there is no structure for Society dues, the Members of the new Society use their own funds to pay for incorporation fees, stationery, and other expenses (these funds are later reimbursed). In May, the first CSEA convention is held in Santa Clara; 25 EAs attend. The new CSEA Board successfully lobbies against proposed California legislation that might give special benefits to tax preparers employed by the Tax Corporation of America.

1978 A Chapter Relations Committee is formed to assist in fostering greater cooperation between northern and southern state Chapters. In November, the first issue of The California Society of Enrolled Agents Newsletter is published; it details a bill introduced in the State Senate to allow the formal recognition of EAs and the use of the initials “EA” as a professional designation (through the efforts of the Society, the bill passed and was signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown in April, 1979).

1979 At the Society’s third annual convention in Oakland, Frank Lehman, EA, is elected Society President. At his first Board meeting, Mr. Lehman states the Society’s goals would be Member education, improvement of the public relationship of Members to clients, and advocacy at regulatory and governmental levels. For the first time, dual membership in CSEA and NAEA is mandated by a change in NAEA bylaws.