Most individuals and businesses have tried to seek professional assistance when filing their tax forms at some point. Typically, the choice is between hiring a CPA or an EA to start preparing and file tax returns. However, most people are unaware that not all federal tax professionals are equal! It’s not surprising that few people understand the benefits of appointing an Enrolled Agent (EA) over a CPA to handle their tax issues. We look at some of the advantages of hiring an EA to help you with your taxes.
When it comes to filing tax returns, you want to work with someone who knows everything there is to know about taxation. While CPAs are equally qualified, the majority of them do not specialize or practice in tax. However, all EAs have a thorough understanding of taxation and how to deal with the IRS throughout all administrative levels. They are also authorized to prepare more complex returns than a simple tax preparer. They deal with tax legislation every day and stay up to date on new developments, allowing them to meet the government’s stringent tax standards.
Furthermore, because the EA license is granted by the federal government, EAs can practice in almost any state without regard to jurisdiction. However, what makes EAs invaluable is their increased accessibility to represent individuals before IRS for any tax issues, including audit, collections, and appeals.
They are not specific to a state
One of the primary advantages of hiring an EA to file your returns is that they can practice in any state. This means you can use a single EA to file returns in multiple states. CPAs, on the contrary hand, have jurisdiction only in the state in which they are allowed to practice.
EAs can represent you for audit in almost any state in the US, in addition to filing returns in different states. As a result, you’ll have a professional in your corner to handle your tax needs no matter where you are in United States.
Extensive knowledge
To obtain the EA license, an individual must have either worked for the IRS for a few years or passed a rigorous three-part exam supposed to cover both personal and business taxes as well as ethics.
This means that EAs are extremely knowledgeable about the complex federal tax codes that frequently bring individuals and companies under IRS scrutiny. EAs also know about the technical requirements, lowering the chances of your returns being audited, fined, or worse.
Hiring an EA would be not only practical, but also cost-effective. Indeed, a reliable EA can serve as a one-stop shop for you and your company, assisting you in remaining tax compliant without risking your tax status.