ABOUT US
Automated Business Services (ABS) was opened with the vision of serving privately held companies and their owners with knowledgeable excellence in public accounting. We believe our client’s success is founded on honesty, integrity, diligence, and trust. Thus, working with clients begins by becoming part of their team. Our clients recognize that we effectively look after their business concerns through our care and genuine interests.
Expertise:
Merial has over 25 years of experience in public accounting working with privately held companies and their owners in a variety of industries. She is also well versed in the taxation of real estate, individuals, businesses, trusts & estates and has worked extensively with nonprofits including the specialization of church and clergy.
Merial prides herself on serving her clients by becoming part of their team. She works with her clients to gain knowledge of their business while staying current with any industry trends that may affect them. She attributes success and longevity in this business to her client relationships which are built with honesty, integrity, diligence, and trust. She has evolved over the years because her clients recognize that she takes a genuine interest in them and effectively looks after their business interests.
Education & Affiliations:
Merial attended California State University, Northridge, and attained a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. She is a federally licensed Enrolled Agent and effectively represents her clients in IRS audits. Annual continuing professional education keeps her on the leading edge of the ever-changing tax laws and accounting methods. She is also an active member of the Carson Chamber of Commerce and has previously served consecutive terms in the capacity of treasurer on its board of directors.
Advisor
Clifford Benn, CPA
Expertise:
Clifford Benn is a Certified Public Accountant and brings more than three decades of experience in public accounting which includes a wide range of businesses from small, closely-held businesses, non-profit organizations to large companies.
Clifford instills in his clients the confidence to make important decisions by having a comprehensive “big picture” understanding of their company. He proactively uncovers issues before they become problems and foresees ripe opportunities. He understands what those issues and opportunities mean in terms of the overall impact on the company.
Education & Affiliations:
Clifford is a graduate of San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Arts in accounting and a Master in Finance from Cal State Los Angeles.
What Is an Enrolled Agent?
Enrolled agents are federally licensed tax practitioners who have expertise in the field of taxation. Enrolled agent status is the highest credential awarded by the IRS. Individuals who obtain this elite status must adhere to ethical standards and complete mandatory continuing education courses.
Enrolled agents, like attorneys and CPAs, have unlimited practice rights. This means they are not restricted as to which taxpayer they can represent, what types of tax matters they can handle, and which IRS offices they can represent clients before.