What Is an Enrolled Agent (EA)?

An Enrolled Agent (EA) is a tax practitioner licensed by the federal government - specifically the IRS - with unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS on audits, collections, and appeals.

EA vs. CPA vs. unlicensed preparer

Anyone with a PTIN can prepare a return, but representation rights differ. EAs and CPAs both have unlimited representation rights before the IRS; an unenrolled preparer’s rights are limited. EAs are licensed federally and focus specifically on taxation.

Frequently asked questions

What is an Enrolled Agent?

An Enrolled Agent (EA) is a tax practitioner licensed by the federal government - the IRS - with unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS for audits, collections, and appeals.

What’s the difference between an EA and a CPA?

Both can prepare taxes and represent clients before the IRS. EAs are licensed federally and specialize specifically in taxation, while CPAs are licensed by states and cover a broader accounting scope. For tax matters, an EA’s authority before the IRS is the same nationwide.

What clients say

Real reviews from real Southern NH clients

5.0 · 12 Google reviews

“I truly cannot say enough good things about my experience with Chris & Maria at NH Tax Advisors! I came to them with a rather daunting & messy self-employed tax situation, needing resolution for some previous years' filings.”

Olivia K.

“We had an unexpected situation this tax season when our original accountant suddenly became ill and had to retire. My husband and I were scrambling to find someone new, especially so close to the deadline.”

Tara W.

“I had a great experience working with Chris Brown. He was incredibly easy to work with and always very reachable. He would respond within minutes or at most a few hours whenever I had a question.”

Jennifer W.