IRS Enrollment Agent
An enrolled agent is a person who has earned the privilege of representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service by either passing a three-part comprehensive IRS test covering individual and business tax returns, or through experience as a former IRS employee.
How do I get an enrollment agent certificate?
The IRS lists three steps to becoming an enrolled agent:
- Obtain a PTIN through the IRS.
- Schedule and pass the EA licensing exam. Candidates can then apply for enrollment through the IRS website.
- Undergo a background check. Background checks look at income tax history and any criminal background.
How do I become an IRS agent?
How to speak directly to an IRS agent
- Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 during their support hours. …
- Select your language, pressing 1 for English or 2 for Spanish.
- Press 2 for questions about your personal income taxes.
- Press 1 for questions about a form already filed or a payment.
- Press 3 for all other questions.
How long does it take to become an IRS enrolled agent?
This process takes 60 days. If you do not take the exam and instead use your previous employment history with the IRS to earn enrollment eligibility, the application process will be a little different. You will need to submit extra information about your education, training, licenses, and work experience.
Is enrolled agent worth it?
As an EA, they earn the right and privilege to represent clients before the IRS, covering all tax topics and working with any administrative level. It is a highly respected accounting certification that has the power to boost careers and expand opportunities within the profession.
Is the EA exam difficult?
On the EA exam, candidates have 3.5 hours to answer 100 MCQs. In contrast, the REG exam requires candidates to complete 76 MCQs and 8 TBSs within 4 hours. The EA exam dedicates a bit more attention to limits, phase-outs, and income brackets. Therefore, the EA exam is not extremely difficult.
Which is better EA or CPA?
An EA is the highest credential the IRS awards. A professional with this designation typically makes between $15,000 and $20,000 more than CPAs annually. You’ll want to seek out an EA for any and all tax-related issues. In fact, the IRS says they are uncontested experts on such topics.
How do Enrolled Agents make money?
Being an Enrolled Agent will give you countless opportunities to earn as much as you desire as your salary is not limited to a single job-paying post. You can make outside your main job by charging services for tax representation, expert tax advice, real estate manager, and other related roles.
What is the hardest part of the enrolled agent exam?
The Business section is considered the hardest among most tax preparers and often gives Enrolled Agent candidates anxiety. Due to its reputation, candidates will take Part 2 after passing at least one of the other two sections, meaning that candidates are more likely to have a study strategy in place before starting.
Is the enrolled agent exam open book?
Is the EA exam open book? The examinations are closed book. You are also not allowed to access any notes, books, reference materials, or electronic devices at any time during the examination or during breaks.
How much does the EA exam cost?
Enrolled Agent Exam Cost
Each part of the EA exam costs $109. You will be required to pay this fee when you schedule your examinations. If you need to reschedule your exam, you can do so.
Are Enrolled Agents easy?
That does not mean the EA exam is easy. An enrolled agent, to be considered a tax expert, must “demonstrate special competence in tax matters” by passing three separate exams to become an enrolled agent. Difficulty depends on experience, but the credential is attainable for those willing to put in the effort.
What does an IRS Enrolled Agent do?
An enrolled agent is a person who has earned the privilege of representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service by either passing a three-part comprehensive IRS test covering individual and business tax returns, or through experience as a former IRS employee.
Is EA exam multiple choice?
Enrolled Agent Exam Outline
The exam is broken down into three sections. Each of the three exam parts has 100 multiple-choice questions.
Can I take the EA test online?
You can schedule an examination appointment at any time online at Prometric.com/see; by calling 800-306-3926 (toll-free) or 443-751-4193 (toll), Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. (ET); or by submitting Form 2587. The fee is paid at the time of appointment scheduling.
How long should I study for the EA exam?
40-70 hours
How much time should I expect to review the Enrolled Agent study material? Depending on experience, you should expect to invest up to 40-70 hours of total study time for each exam part.