What Is An Enrolled Agent?

I get asked all the time: Am I a CPA? The answer is… kind of? I know what you’re asking: Do I prepare tax returns and represent clients before the IRS? Yes, indeed. But not as a CPA—as an Enrolled Agent (EA).

So, what exactly is an EA? An Enrolled Agent is a tax professional federally licensed by the IRS to represent taxpayers before the IRS. This includes helping individuals and businesses with tax questions, audits, collections, and other tax matters.

To become an EA, you must pass a series of exams covering individual and business taxes, much like the CPA exam process. You must also pass a suitability check and meet continuing education requirements to maintain your credential.

What can an EA help with? We can prepare individual and business tax returns, answer tax questions, help with tax planning, represent clients before the IRS, and help resolve tax issues, including audits and tax debt.

Are EAs the same as CPAs? No. A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is licensed by a state and can work in several areas of accounting, including auditing, financial reporting, and taxation. An EA specializes in federal tax matters and is authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS.

Both credentials have value, and both can help you with your taxes. The right fit depends on your needs.

The bottom line: You don’t have to be a CPA to get qualified tax help. Enrolled Agents are federally licensed tax professionals who can help you navigate the tax system and represent you before the IRS. Knowing who to turn to can make tax season a little less stressful.