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What is an Enrolled Agent or EA?

3 min read


3 min read


If you’re looking for an expert to prepare your taxes, an enrolled agent (EA) may be one type of tax specialist you consider. If you’ve not heard of the designation, you may be asking yourself, “what is an EA exactly?” Enrolled agents are tax practitioners licensed at the federal level by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

What Can an Enrolled Agent Do?

Enrolled agents have virtually unlimited practice rights, which means there are no restrictions to the types of tax matters they can manage and which type of taxpayers they are allowed to serve. In the event of an IRS letter or IRS examination, an enrolled agent can also represent tax clients before any type of IRS office.

What Are the Requirements to Become an EA?

Enrolled agent status is the highest credential the IRS awards. To gain EA credentials, individuals must meet a series of requirements. First, candidates must obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) and meet a suitability check. Next, they must pass a comprehensive three-part test called the Special Enrollment Examination that covers individual and business laws and representation issues.

How do enrolled agents maintain their status and tax knowledge? They must complete 72 hours of continuing education courses every three years with a qualified program to stay up-to-date on tax matters. In addition, enrolled agents must maintain ethical standards.

Advantages of Enrolled Agents at H&R Block

When you entrust your taxes to an enrolled agent at H&R Block, you know you’re working with a professional with the highest standards of tax expertise and personal service. And whether it’s an enrolled agent in one of our offices or one you connect with through virtual tax preparation, you’ve got an expert devoted to the ins and outs of taxes on your side.

You can rest assured that our tax pros won’t stop until you receive every credit and deduction available to you, so you get your maximum refund. Find an enrolled agent at H&R Block.

Virtual Tax Expertise at H&R Block

Looking to have a remote tax expert check the return you prepared online? Learn more about H&R Block’s Tax Pro Review, which lets you file your taxes online and have an enrolled agent or other tax professional review your finished return.

Or, if you prefer to leave tax preparation and filing to a remote tax expert, consider H&R Block Virtual Tax Prep.  Simply upload your documents and we’ll match you to the certified tax professional best suited to your needs. Our comprehensive service allows you to sit back and relax, while an enrolled agent or other experienced tax professional takes care of your entire return for you.

Get started with H&R Block Virtual

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