What’s the Difference? Enrolled Agent vs. CPA

If you’re exploring hiring a professional to do your taxes, you may come across the terms enrolled agent (EA) or certified public accountant (CPA). You might know that both are designations for tax preparers, but when it comes to the details you could be asking, “enrolled agent vs. CPA—what’s the difference?”

To understand what differs in the role of EAs vs. CPAs, let’s first review how each is licensed. An enrolled agent is a tax practitioner who is licensed at the federal level by the Internal Revenue Service. In fact, enrolled agent status is the highest credential awarded by the IRS. On the other hand, certified public accountants are licensed by their applicable state boards of accountancy.

CPAs vs. EAs: How Are They Different?

While both CPAs and EAs have expertise in taxes, the requirements to achieve these credentials differ. Although the exact criteria can vary by state or jurisdiction CPAs generally must complete studies in accounting at a college or university, meet experience requirements and pass the four-part Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination.

CPAs not only study tax issues, they also gain expertise in accounting matters such as financial planning and auditing. Although H&R Block does not provide public accounting services, we do have tax preparers who are CPAs who can prepare your tax return to get your maximum refund, guaranteed.

EAs must pass a three-part series of tests called the Spec