My name is Raven Deerwater, and I call myself a Tax Practitioner as I offer tax return preparation, tax planning, and tax and business consulting. I truly enjoy working one-on-one with my clients exploring their businesses and finances to produce the most advantageous tax picture for them.

I began my practice here in 1997, and I became an enrolled agent in 1998. I enjoy serving the unique needs of the Mendocino coast. The tax code is complex, and the IRS can be scary and intimidating. It is reassuring and prudent to have a smart and knowledgeable advocate on your side.

Background

I have been certified by the Internal Revenue Service as an Enrolled Agent. An Enrolled Agent can represent taxpayers before all administrative levels of the Internal Revenue Service.

To become an Enrolled Agent, it was necessary to pass a four-part, 11-hour test given by the IRS. The test covers taxation issues for individuals, businesses, partnerships, corporations, estates, trusts, and non-profit organizations. The test also covers IRS regulations, procedures, and collections.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard University, and a master’s and Ph.D. degree in mathematics education from the University of Chicago. I have served as the President of of the California Society of Enrolled Agents and the President of the North Bay Chapter of the California Society of Enrolled Agents. I am also a member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents and have written many articles on taxes and ethics.

I am a former junior high, high school, and mathematics college teacher. I moved to the Mendocino Coast in 1996 from Normal, Illinois, where I was a professor of mathematics education at Illinois State University. I began my practice here in 1997. I am married to Rebecca Deerwater, and I have two daughters, Lilly Deerwater and Raina Deerwater.

In addition to my work as a tax practitioner, I am an independent consultant on leadership development in nonprofit organizations. I am currently Vice-President for the Melos Institute.