What is an Enrolled Agent? Greg Fey, EA explains?

An enrolled agent is someone who has demonstrated competence in the understanding and application of tax laws, has a history of professional ethics and has been empowered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service.

A Tax Professional must meet the following 3 criteria to become certified as an Enrolled Agent

1. Demonstrate Competence

                Enrolled Agents must study and pass a comprehensive 3 ? part  written examination administered by the IRS. The exam includes questions and exercises in various tax related subjects including; tax law, preparation of all types of tax returns, tax rules and ethics. To keep the Enrolled Agent License, the EA must successfully complete 72 hours of continuing tax education during each 3 year license period.

2.  A History of Ethical Conduct

                Prospective Enrolled Agents must pass a background check administered by the United States Treasury Department. Enrolled Agents are required to conduct themselves according to the standards of ethical conduct as described in U.S. Treasury Circular 230.

3. Receive an Enrolled Agent License directly from the Federal Government.

An Enrolled Agent is empowered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service. Enrolled Agents are the only taxpayer representatives who receive their right to practice directly from the U.S. government.  Enrolled Agents are licensed to practice in every state and most foreign countries.

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) specialize in accounting and may or may not choose to specialize in taxes.  Enrolled Agents specialize in taxes.  

Greg Fey, EA explains why he became an Enrolled Agent

Tax laws are constantly changing and the IRS requirements become more complicated each year.  I wanted to focus and specialize in taxes In order to provide the highest quality service to my clients. While I am competent in many areas of finance, I am most passionate about taxes because it is an area that affects most every U.S. citizen. Taxes can be a source of frustration and confusion.  As an Enrolled Agent, I help people stand up to the IRS and solve their tax problems. I can represent taxpayers for audits, appeals and collections before all administrative levels of the Internal Revenue Service.  I gain a great personal satisfaction from giving people the tools to take complete control of their tax issues and get a good result.