Biz Tax Strategy
Randy McKee · IRS Enrolled Agent
Free Resource
Why It Matters Who Prepares Your Taxes

Top 10 Reasons to Work with
an IRS Enrolled Agent

Not all tax professionals are equal. An Enrolled Agent is the highest credential the IRS awards — the only designation that requires passing a federal exam administered by the IRS itself, covering every area of taxation.

01

Exclusive tax specialization. Unlike CPAs or attorneys who may or may not specialize in taxes, Enrolled Agents focus exclusively on taxation — every time, every client.

02

Regulated since 1884. The Enrolled Agent profession has been federally regulated by Congress for over 140 years — one of the oldest professional designations in the U.S.

03

Certified by the federal government. EAs receive their certification directly from the U.S. government — not a state board. They can practice in all 50 states without restriction.

04

Rigorous IRS background check. Every Enrolled Agent passes a background check conducted by the IRS before being certified. You know exactly who you're working with.

05

The hardest tax exam there is. EAs pass a three-part Special Enrollment Exam covering tax law, tax preparation, and representation for individuals, businesses, partnerships, estates, and trusts.

06

Proven competence in all tax areas. Only Enrolled Agents are required to demonstrate competence across ALL areas of taxation to the IRS — not just the forms you file most.

07

72 hours of continuing education. Every three years, Enrolled Agents must complete 72 hours of CE covering all tax law changes — so your advisor stays current as the code evolves.

08

Bound by Circular 230. EAs adhere to the IRS code of professional ethics and conduct — providing honest, ethical representation in all circumstances.

09

Unlimited IRS representation rights. EAs can represent any taxpayer before the IRS — for audits, collections, appeals, and disputes — in all 50 states, without restriction.

10

They appear in your place. An Enrolled Agent can go to the IRS instead of you. You don't have to face an audit alone — your EA stands in for you with full authority.

How Enrolled Agents Compare
Credential Federal IRS Exam IRS Background Check Cont. Education IRS Practice Rights All 50 States
IRS Enrolled Agent ✓ Required ✓ Required 72 hrs / 3 yrs Unlimited ✓ Yes
CPA State exam Not required Varies by state Unlimited State-limited
Attorney Bar exam Not required Varies by state Unlimited State-limited
Tax Preparer (H&R Block, etc.) Not required Not required Minimal Limited Limited