Results
We work with you on a personal level to determine the best solutions for your unique needs, then leverage our seasoned expertise to achieve the best possible results.
Relationships
We are a small firm with a focus on client success. We offer a full range of professional services with an established history of experience. That history has taught us that each client’s situation is unique to that particular client. We partner with our clients and their financial professionals to team services tailored to fit that client’s unique needs.
Relief
Rest assured that when a need arises, our firm is ready and capable to handle everything for you so you can focus on what matters most to you.
Staff Profiles
Foothill Tax Service, Inc. is owned and operated by Joyce Schwilke, E.A., A.T.A. She is an Enrolled Agent and an Accredited Tax Advisor. She also holds an Accredited Tax Advisor credential, which is granted by the Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation, Inc.
Joyce grew up near the Los Angeles Airport and attended El Camino College, California State University at Dominquez Hills and UCLA. Before moving to Nevada County, she was a payroll accountant at Hughes Aircraft Company. She moved north to Nevada County in 1988 lured by the beautiful fall colors and change of seasons she experienced during family visits dating back to the mid-1970s. She started her own practice in 1991 after working seasonally and teaching for a local tax company and through Sierra College Community Extension.
Many remember her monthly Tax & Business Column, “Tax Tips & News”, published by the Union Newspaper for seven years plus other written contributions to local publications. She’s appeared on NCTV and KNCO as a guest advisor.
In her spare time, Joyce enjoys traveling and local hiking, cycling (or spin classes) plus Salsa dancing. She has an extensive Post Card Collection from around the world sent to her by clients.
What is an Enrolled Agent?
An Enrolled Agent is someone who is Enrolled to Represent Taxpayers before the IRS. Enrolled agent status is the highest credential empowered by the Director of Practice, Department of the Treasury, to represent taxpayers before the IRS. The E.A. credential is recognized across all 50 states. In order to become an Enrolled Agent you must pass a two day technical proficiency examination on all areas of tax and ethics. It is comparable to the state bar and state accountancy exams. The E.A. credential also requires continuing education. As a member of the California Society of Enrolled Agents and National Association of Enrolled Agents, she completes thirty or more hours of continuing education annually.
What is an Accredited Tax Advisor?
The Accredited Tax Advisor is a premier national tax credential for practitioners who handle sophisticated tax planning issues, including planning for owners of closely held businesses, planning for the highly compensated, choosing qualified retirement plans and performing estate tax planning. Their expertise covers tax returns for individuals, business entities, fiduciaries, trusts and estates, as well as tax planning, tax consulting and ethics.
The Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation was established in 1973 as a non-profit independent testing, accrediting and monitoring organization. The Council seeks to identify professionals in independent practice who specialize in providing financial, accounting and taxation services to individuals and small to mid-size businesses. Professionals receive accreditation through examination and maintain their accreditation through commitment to a significant program of continuing professional education and adherence to the Council’s Code of Ethics and Rules of Professional Conduct. The organization also serves as regulatory board over some state accountancy boards.