Professional Credentials and Memberships
What is an Enrolled Agent?
An Enrolled Agent (EA) is a federally-authorized tax practitioner who has technical expertise in the field of taxation and who is empowered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to represent taxpayers before all administrative levels of the Internal Revenue Service for audits, collections and appeals.
How does one become an enrolled agent?
The license is earned in one of two ways, by passing a comprehensive examination which covers all aspects of the tax code, or having worked at the IRS for five years in a position which regularly interpreted and applied the tax code and its regulations. All candidates are subjected to a rigorous background check conducted by the IRS.
Because of the expertise necessary to become an enrolled agent and the requirements to maintain the license, there are only about 46,000 practicing enrolled agents.
Are enrolled agents required to take continuing education?
The IRS requires enrolled agents to complete 72 hours of continuing education, reported every three years, to maintain their enrolled agent status.
Why should I choose a bookkeeper who is a member of the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB)?
The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) is the leading institution for bookkeeping professionals in the United States and beyond. The institute contributes to the recognition of bookkeeping as a serious profession by providing comprehensive continuing education and resources that ensure practitioners are up-to-date and informed on the latest developments in the field.