Today we’d like to introduce you to LuSundra Everett.
Hi LuSundra, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
When I entered the tax profession in 2016, I never imagined it would become my life’s work. What started as an opportunity at a national tax preparation franchise quickly became a passion for solving complex tax problems and helping people navigate one of the most intimidating aspects of their financial lives.
Recognizing that I had found my calling, I immersed myself in learning the tax law. In 2017, I earned my Enrolled Agent (EA) credential, the highest credential awarded by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. As an Enrolled Agent, I am authorized to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service in all tax matters and regularly advocate for clients before both the IRS and state taxing authorities.
As the wife of a career Army servicemember, building a traditional brick-and-mortar business was never a practical option. Frequent relocations required me to think differently, so I embraced technology and built a virtual tax practice long before remote professional services became the norm. Through educational videos and social media, I was able to connect with clients, build relationships, and grow a thriving practice regardless of where the military sent our family.
No one succeeds alone, and I have been incredibly fortunate to learn from outstanding mentors who invested in my professional development. Their guidance inspired me to continually raise the bar. Most recently, I passed the United States Tax Court Practitioner examination, earning the privilege of representing taxpayers before the United States Tax Court—a distinction held by a relatively small number of tax professionals nationwide.
Today, I lead two complementary firms. Everett Tax Solutions provides tax preparation, tax planning, and advisory services for individuals and businesses, while ETS Tax Relief focuses exclusively on helping taxpayers resolve IRS and state tax controversies, including audits, collections, penalties, and unfiled tax returns.
In 2018, my husband’s final military assignment brought our family to Fort Lee, Virginia. When he retired from military service, we made the decision to call Central Virginia home. It has been the perfect place to grow both my business and my commitment to serving the community.
Today, my work extends beyond representing taxpayers. I also educate tax professionals through continuing education courses, speaking engagements, and leadership within the profession. Whether I’m helping a business owner stay compliant, guiding a taxpayer through a difficult IRS matter, or teaching fellow practitioners, my mission remains the same: to make the tax system more understandable, advocate for those who need a knowledgeable voice, and help raise the standard of excellence within the tax profession.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Goodness no! Many believe owning a business is a straight line. It really looks like scribble. One of the most challenging things I had to do was build virtually. Prior to Covid, it was challenging to get people to trust me, and believe that I could prepare their taxes honestly without them being in the room or having an actual office space.
With growth comes challenges, building a team, building systems. It’s all trial and error. You have to be willing to fail.
If anyone looks like they have it all together, I promise it’s just a look. There’s never a dull moment in owning a business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
ETS Tax Relief specializes in representing businesses and individuals with the IRS and state taxing authorities. We believe in educating our clients to help them understand their tax situations and how to improve for the future. I’m most proud when my clients say ‘Oh, I feel so much better now’.
We are here to be a resource for our community in addition to providing tax services.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Mentors will show up when you need them. You have to keep your eyes open. You also have to know what you’re looking for in a mentor. The biggest mistake people make when looking for a mentor is getting caught up in fancy graphics. The best mentor is one that has recently gone in the direction you’re trying to go. Above all, don’t waste your mentor’s time. When they give advice, use it.
Networking is great to build awareness for your brand. I heard someone say once, “If people can’t see you, they can’t pay you.” You can meet people and network locally, as well as online. Relationship building is still important.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ETSTaxRelief.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homebiztaxlady/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lusundra
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lusundraeverett/
Image Credits
Images by: Raleigh Desper
