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Contact
Email
Phone
(503) 928-6575
Address
Chicago, IL, US
Professional
About
**Jacob L. Zerkle** **Tax Attorney at Ernst & Young** **Chicago, IL** Jacob L. Zerkle is a dedicated tax attorney at Ernst & Young, where he expertly navigates compliance and consulting engagements for tax-exempt organizations. With a strong foundation in tax law, Jacob provides invaluable legal counsel to nonprofits and social enterprises, ensuring they meet regulatory requirements and thrive in their missions. Prior to joining Ernst & Young, Jacob served as an associate attorney at Bea & VandenBerk, where he specialized in corporate formation and applications for federal tax exemption. His comprehensive understanding of multistate charitable registration and solicitation laws has empowered numerous clients to expand their outreach while remaining compliant. Jacob is also adept at advising organizations on property tax exemptions, addressing complexities related to unrelated business income, private benefit transactions, and the unique challenges posed by cryptocurrency transactions, including Bitcoin. Jacob's commitment to serving the nonprofit sector is deeply rooted in his educational and professional journey. He earned a B.A. in Applied Linguistics and Bible from Moody Bible Institute in 2005, where he first developed a passion for supporting charitable organizations through volunteer work with groups such as Chicago House and World Relief. Following his tenure as a youth pastor in southeastern Ohio, Jacob pursued his legal education at Valparaiso University Law School, enhancing his expertise through clerkships with esteemed judges in the Northern District of Indiana and an externship with the United States Attorney’s Office. With a blend of legal acumen and a genuine passion for nonprofit advocacy, Jacob L. Zerkle is committed to guiding clients through the intricacies of tax law, ensuring their vital work continues to make a positive impact in the community.
About Tax Law
Tax attorneys help individuals and businesses with tax planning, compliance, and disputes with tax authorities. They work to minimize tax liability and resolve IRS issues. Common matters include tax planning, irs audits, tax disputes, business tax.
Credentials
Education
2013 Valparaiso University School of Law JD - Juris Doctor 2009 Moody Bible Institute BA - Bachelor of Arts
Languages
English
Recognition & Involvement
Awards
2013 Member, National Order of Scribes
Publications
2014 Bea & VandenBerk Job Applicants with Criminal Records Present Challenges to Employers 2014 Bea & VandenBerk New Law Prohibits Illinois Employers from Asking Job Applicants About Criminal Backgrounds Until After Job Offer Is Made 2014 Bea & VandenBerk Estate Loses Exclusive Rights to Sherlock Holmes Series 2014 Bea & VandenBerk Churches Should Plan for Disasters and Shooter Situations 2014 Bea & VandenBerk Volunteers and Independent Contractors May Be Entitled to Protection Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act
Associations
2013 - Present Chicago Bar Association Member 2013 - Present Illinois State Bar Association Member
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Updated: May 25, 2026