EAs take continuing education courses each year to keep up with the changes and have research tools at their disposal to constantly monitor updates. Most taxpayers do not have the time, desire, or the research tools necessary to keep up with the tax code each year. When you choose an enrolled agent, you know your preparer keeps up with the rules and regulations and will use this expertise to do the best job possible for you. Many tax return preparers are honest and provide great service to their clients. But it’s important to remember that many of the tax preparation shops you see springing up around tax time are also completely unregulated by the IRS.

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During this time the test is updated with the most recent tax law. You may submit your enrollment renewal application and payment directly online through Pay.gov. Once you click “continue,” you will be brought to a third-party website. Please be aware, the privacy policy may differ on the third-party website.

Forms & Instructions

Someone who has failed to file or pay taxes as required can be denied enrollment. Reputable preparers will ask to see receipts and will ask multiple questions to determine whether expenses, deductions, and other items qualify. By doing so, they are trying to help their clients avoid penalties, interest, or additional taxes that could result from an IRS examination. An Enrolled Agent is authorized by the U.S. federal government to represent taxpayers before the IRS. In the 1880s, there were inadequate attorney standards, and Ccertified public accountants (CPAs) were not in existence.

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You can also personally ask the IRS to verify the status of an enrolled agent by emailing with the agent’s first and last name, address (if available) and enrolled agent number (if available). The Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) is a three-part exam testing all matters related to tax preparation and representation. Passing this comprehensive exam is a pivotal moment on your journey of how to become an Enrolled Agent, demonstrating that you are prepared with the knowledge and skills to work in this role. The first step in how to become an Enrolled Agent is applying for and receiving your Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). All EAs—in fact, anyone paid to prepare tax returns—need this IRS-issued ID number.

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• Water is allowed in the testing room but it must be in a clear or transparent container with a lid or cap.
• If you work with an EA, you can also rest easy knowing that he or she is qualified to handle any concerns that may come up with your returns.
• According to the Treasury Department Circular 230 which governs practice before the IRS, an agent must take at least 72 hours of continuing education courses every 3 years, including at least 16 hours each year.
• Do you believe in holding to the highest ethical standards possible?

enrolled agent salarys, like attorneys and certified public accountants (CPAs), have unlimited practice rights. This means they are unrestricted as to which taxpayers they can represent, what types of tax matters they can handle, and which IRS offices they can represent clients before. Learn more about enrolled agents in Treasury Department Circular 230 PDF.

All enrolled agents must complete 72 hours of continuing education every 36 months. CPAs and attorneys may serve as enrolled agents without taking the exam. An enrolled agent is a person who has earned the privilege of representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service.

I previously passed parts of the exam; how long can I carry over those scores? (updated March 1,

While the IRS requires all preparers to obtain and maintain a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), https://www.bookstime.com/s have gone beyond basic requirements and have demonstrated their expertise through testing. By definition, an enrolled agent (EA) is a tax professional who has achieved the highest credential the Internal Revenue Service offers. EAs are federally authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS and, like CPAs and attorneys, have unlimited representation rights. This means EAs can represent any taxpayer, whether they prepare returns for them or not. EAs can also represent any tax matter and appeal to any office of the IRS.

To avoid getting scammed, the IRS suggests making sure that your tax preparer has an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). Avoid preparers who charge you a percentage of your refund, and never sign a blank or incomplete return. If you think you’ve been scammed, consult this guide and use Form A to file your complaint with the IRS. So, if you think your taxes are too complicated to file yourself using online software and are looking for help from a professional, consider hiring an enrolled agent. Earning your EA designation takes some time and hard work but is very attainable with dedication and guidance. We’re here to walk you step by step through the process of becoming an Enrolled Agent, readying you for career success through EA Exam preparation and continuing education.