Kyusung Lee, CPA: A Profile of Expertise in Taxation and Accounting
In the world of accounting and taxation, some professionals stand out not only for their technical expertise but also for their dedication to their clients and commitment to staying ahead in an ever-evolving field. Kyusung Lee, CPA, MST, is one such professional who has made a significant impact in the tax and accounting industry. With a strong educational background and extensive experience, Kyusung Lee has become a trusted name in the world of tax advisory, planning, and compliance. This article explores his journey, expertise, and contributions to the field, providing insights into his qualifications, work experience, and professional achievements.
Education and Qualifications
Kyusung Lee’s educational background has laid a solid foundation for his successful career in accounting and taxation. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from California State University, Northridge. This program provided him with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices, setting the stage for his future career.
Building on this foundation, Kyusung furthered his education by earning a Master of Science in Taxation (MST) from California State University, Northridge. This advanced degree is a testament to his commitment to deepening his knowledge of tax laws, regulations, and strategies. The MST program helped him hone his skills in taxation and provided him with a strong understanding of complex tax issues faced by individuals and businesses alike. This education has been instrumental in shaping his approach to tax planning, compliance, and advisory services.
In addition to his formal education, Kyusung Lee holds several professional certifications that showcase his dedication to continuous learning and professional development. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), a credential issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). This certification is widely recognized and is a mark of excellence in the accounting profession.
Professional Experience
Kyusung Lee’s career in the accounting industry spans several years, with a focus on tax preparation, tax planning, and client advisory services. He currently serves as a Tax Supervisor at MGO (Macias Gini & O’Connell LLP), one of the leading accounting firms in California. Since joining MGO in January 2021, he has made significant contributions to the firm’s tax practice, providing high-level tax advisory services to corporate and individual clients.
As a Tax Supervisor at MGO, Kyusung is responsible for overseeing tax planning and compliance for a wide range of clients. His expertise includes federal and state tax laws, foreign reporting, payroll, and sales tax. He plays a critical role in managing complex tax issues and providing strategic guidance to clients in various industries. Under his leadership, the firm has seen an increase in client satisfaction and retention, with clients praising his knowledge and personalized approach to tax matters.
Before his tenure at MGO, Kyusung Lee worked as a Senior Tax Accountant at Yum and Associates CPA from September 2014 to November 2019. In this role, he gained extensive experience in preparing and filing tax returns for corporate and individual clients, including C and S corporations, LLCs, and partnerships. He also handled foreign tax reporting, including subpart F income, FBARs, and FinCEN 114. His role at Yum and Associates involved managing client relationships, providing tax planning and consulting services, and representing clients during IRS, Franchise Tax Board (FTB), and California Employment Development Department (EDD) audits.
One of Kyusung’s key achievements during his time at Yum and Associates was his success in reducing client tax liabilities by over 50 percent. His ability to navigate the complexities of tax law and offer innovative solutions has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor. He also played a vital role in mentoring interns and helping them transition into full-time roles, further demonstrating his leadership and commitment to developing future tax professionals.
Kyusung Lee’s experience extends beyond just tax preparation and planning. He has also been involved in tax research, financial statement preparation, and auditing. His knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and tax laws has allowed him to offer clients tailored solutions that minimize tax liabilities while ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
Skills and Expertise
Kyusung Lee possesses a diverse set of skills that make him a highly effective tax professional. His expertise includes:
Tax Planning and Strategy:
Kyusung excels at designing tax strategies that help clients minimize their tax liabilities. He provides innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of each client, whether they are individuals or businesses.
Tax Compliance:
Kyusung is well-versed in tax compliance and ensures that clients meet all necessary deadlines and regulatory requirements. He has extensive experience with federal and state tax filings, including income tax returns, sales tax, and payroll tax.
Foreign Reporting:
As a specialist in foreign tax reporting, Kyusung handles complex issues related to international tax laws, including reporting requirements for subpart F income, FBARs, and FinCEN 114.
Audit Representation:
Kyusung has successfully represented clients in audits by the IRS, FTB, and other tax authorities. His ability to navigate the audit process and reduce tax liabilities has earned him the trust of his clients.
Client Relationship Management:
Kyusung is known for his ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients. He works closely with both corporate and individual clients to provide personalized tax services that align with their financial goals.
Mentorship and Leadership:
Throughout his career, Kyusung has mentored several interns and junior staff members, providing guidance and support to help them develop their skills and advance in the profession.
Certifications and Training
In addition to his CPA certification, Kyusung Lee has pursued further professional development through various certifications and training programs. Notably, he is a QuickBooks Certified Advisor, a certification he earned in July 2020. This certification demonstrates his proficiency in using QuickBooks for accounting and tax purposes, allowing him to provide clients with efficient and effective solutions.
Kyusung has also completed several courses on Excel for Accountants, Financial Modeling and Forecasting Financial Statements, and Data Analytics through LinkedIn Learning. These courses have enhanced his ability to analyze financial data, create accurate financial models, and provide data-driven insights to clients.
Conclusion
Kyusung Lee, CPA, MST, is a highly skilled and dedicated tax professional whose career has been marked by a strong educational foundation, diverse professional experiences, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to his clients. His expertise in tax planning, compliance, and advisory services, coupled with his ability to build strong client relationships, has made him a trusted advisor in the accounting and taxation field.
With his ongoing dedication to professional development and his impressive track record of success, Kyusung Lee is poised to continue making significant contributions to the accounting profession. Whether working with individual clients or corporate entities, Kyusung’s ability to navigate complex tax issues and provide innovative solutions ensures that his clients are well-positioned for long-term success.
