How stable is accounting? I’m looking to make a real career change and stay in a career path for a long period of time. Is accounting something that is like that?

WOW 14 hour or a 10.5 hour test? I guess I should high five the tax guy next year… huh?

There was a brief moment in college that I considered becoming a CPA – that is until I took Business Tax – yikes! While I lost the desire to become a CPA, I never questioned their importance. Having a good CPA is essential in having a successful business as mine has been there every step of the way. It also makes sense for many families to have a CPA to help them navigate through the ever evolving tax code.

Then one day I was introduced to the title Enrolled Agent and, I have to admit, I had no clue what it meant. I knew what a CPA was, but did not know the difference between a CPA and an Enrolled Agent.

What is an Enrolled Agent?

An Enrolled Agent (EA) is a tax practitioner authorized by the United States federal government to represent tax payers in affairs with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The United States Department of Treasury empowers EAs to represent taxpayers for any audits, appeals or collections. This occupation is and has been regulated by Congress since 1884. It was originally established to investigate questionable and fraudulent claims that were submitted in the wake of the Civil War. Congress decided to regulate persons who were given the task of representing citizens in affairs with the United States Treasury.

I’ve been waiting for a straightforward answer that I could actually understand… this was really helpful. Thanks!