Find an Enrolled Agent

infoWhat is an Enrolled Agent?

An Enrolled Agent (EA) is a tax professional licensed directly by the IRS, the highest credential the IRS awards. EAs specialize in taxation and have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS, in any state, for audits, collections, and appeals.

workspace_premiumEnrolled Agent facts

• Licensed federally by the IRS (not by a state), so an EA can represent clients anywhere in the country.
• Earned by passing the three-part Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) or through qualifying IRS experience, plus a background check.
• Must complete 72 hours of continuing education every three years to keep the credential current.
• One of only three credential types (Enrolled Agent, CPA, attorney) with unlimited rights to represent you before the IRS.
• Focused solely on tax, EAs are often a cost-effective choice for preparation, planning, and IRS representation.

helpEnrolled Agent vs. CPA

An Enrolled Agent is licensed federally by the IRS and specializes only in taxes; a CPA is licensed by a state board and covers broader accounting and financial work in addition to tax. Both can represent you before the IRS without limits. For tax-focused needs an EA is often a strong, affordable fit; for broader accounting or attest work a CPA may be better. Some professionals hold both.

gavelWhen should I hire an Enrolled Agent?

Consider an Enrolled Agent for tax return preparation and planning, complex or multi-state individual and small-business returns, and representation before the IRS in an audit, collection matter, or appeal. Reviews on this site can help you find an EA you can trust.