What kind of training does the tax preparer have?

Enrolled Agents (EAs), Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), attorneys, commercial store front firms and seasonal tax preparers are a few popular choices for tax preparation. Only EAs, CPAs and attorneys can represent taxpayers before the IRS if necessary. EAs, who specialize in taxation, are the only group who obtain their authority to practice directly from the U.S. government. • 2. What are your needs? Do you have a complex return that requires special attention? Haven't filed in a while? Enrolled Agents can appear in place of a taxpayer before the Internal Revenue Service if necessary. Enrolled Agents prepare millions of tax returns each year. They can prepare returns for individuals, partnerships, corporations, estates and trusts or any entity with tax reporting requirements. • 3. Does the tax preparer complete continuing professional education? Members of the National Association of Enrolled Agents are required to complete 30 hours of continuing professional education each year ...  more