Yes, you will need an Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) issued by the IRS to prepare and e-file tax returns. If you don't have one yet, we provide guidance on how to apply. The process typically takes 45–60 days, so we recommend starting early.

Absolutely. Elite ERO is designed for both new and experienced tax professionals. Our structured onboarding, weekly training, and coaching program walk you through every step — from setting up your EFIN to filing your first return and marketing your business.

SmartFilings is our AI-powered client portal and compliance platform. It gives your clients a secure, branded portal to upload documents and track their return status. On the preparer side, it uses AI to review documents, flag compliance issues, and generate due diligence documentation — helping you maintain IRS compliance standards.

The AI Due Diligence Assistant automatically reviews returns for IRS due diligence requirements, flags potential concerns before filing, provides preparer reminders for EITC, CTC, and AOTC credits, and creates documented review checkpoints. It's designed to support your internal review process and help you maintain organized records.

No. SmartFilings compliance reports are designed to support internal review processes and help preparers organize their documentation. They do not guarantee IRS acceptance or eliminate preparer responsibilities. You remain responsible for the accuracy and completeness of all returns filed.

GoHighLevel (GHL) is the industry-leading CRM and marketing automation platform included in the Growth and Premier plans. It manages your leads, automates follow-up emails and SMS messages, handles appointment booking, sends review requests, and runs marketing campaigns. It's the engine that grows your client base while you focus on preparing returns.

TaxNova is the professional tax preparation software at the core of Elite ERO. It's IRS-compliant, supports all major individual and business forms, integrates with bank products (RALs, RACs), and supports e-filing. It's designed specifically for EROs and independent tax professionals.

Bank products are financial products offered through tax preparation, including Refund Anticipation Loans (RALs) and Refund Anticipation Checks (RACs). They allow your clients to receive their refund faster and allow you to deduct your preparation fee from the refund — meaning clients can pay nothing out of pocket.

Most Elite ERO members are fully operational within 30 days of joining. This includes completing onboarding, setting up TaxNova, configuring SmartFilings, launching your GoHighLevel CRM, and activating your marketing campaigns.

All plans include weekly group training calls covering tax preparation, software training, marketing strategies, and business operations. The Premier plan also includes monthly 1-on-1 coaching sessions and quarterly business reviews with a dedicated advisor.

Yes. While TaxNova is included in all Elite ERO plans, many members join primarily for the SmartFilings compliance tools, GoHighLevel CRM, and coaching. We can help you evaluate whether transitioning to TaxNova makes sense for your practice.

No long-term contracts. All Elite ERO plans are annual subscriptions. You can cancel at any time, though refunds are subject to our standard policy. We believe in earning your renewal every year.

Elite ERO uses bank-level 256-bit encryption for all data in transit and at rest. SmartFilings client portals are hosted on secure, compliant infrastructure. We follow IRS Publication 4557 guidelines for safeguarding taxpayer data and conduct regular security audits.

All plans include professionally designed marketing templates for social media, email, and print. Growth and Premier plans include GoHighLevel automation for lead nurturing, review requests, referral campaigns, and appointment reminders. Premier includes full funnel and landing page setup.

Click 'Become an Elite ERO' on this page, select your plan, and complete checkout. You'll receive instant access to your platform, onboarding materials, and an invitation to your first training call. Our support team is available to guide you through every step.

All plans include access to technical support via email and our member community. Growth and Premier plans include priority support with faster response times. Premier members have access to a dedicated advisor for strategic questions.

Yes. You can upgrade from Essentials to Growth or Premier at any time. The upgrade is prorated based on your remaining subscription period. Contact our support team to initiate an upgrade.