[traveler1985]

Hi everyone, I have been debating going for the EA exam instead of taking the CPA exam. I have worked in tax for almost 6 years and I can’t really see myself switching over to audit or a financial accounting role. The amount of material on the CPA is insane especially on FAR and I have no desire to study it and every time I try and study I get so frustrated. If I was to take the EA exam and become an enrolled agent instead of the CPA would I be severely limiting myself in my career. I know many big4 will not promote to manager without CPA but does the EA hold any significant weight and/or respect in the accounting world? I feel like it should from what I have been reading about it. It tests specifically in taxation only and this would apply so much more to my every day work experience. Should I just suck it up and do the CPA ? My long term goals are to either work up to a manager role (senior now at mid size) or one day own my own tax business. Thanks guys!

[sonygal57]

I used the EA as a stepping block because I wanted to be able to utilize the 2848s. I know being a CPA would allow me to do that but the EA was quicker. If you have been in the tax biz for 6 years I would expect you would be able to fly through the EA tests in about a month and a half to two months. Then if you want to continue toward the CPA you still can, just be aware that studying for the CPA exam takes more motivation and committment…and in my opinion is tons harder! Also, clients (at least in my area) seem to be more confident in CPAs than EAs which is part of my motivation to pass these tests!

Good old Gandalf, "All we have to do is decide what to do with the time that is give to us."
"Not all those who wander are lost."

FAR: I slayed the Dragon!
BEC: I defeated the Siren!
AUD: I eliminated Medusa!
REG: ?????

[rupert]

Ask 100 people what an EA does. Ask the same 100 people what a CPA does. Most people have never even heard of EAs. Many people believe that CPAs are tax experts.

This in no way is meant to say that I believe CPAs are better tax professionals than EAs. I'm just trying to point out what I believe to be the public perception, however right or wrong it may be.

I believe a background in accounting is very helpful for the person wanting to prepare business returns.

FAR 90 Oct. 6, 2012
AUD 96 Dec. 8, 2012
REG 93 May 30, 2013
BEC 84 Aug. 31, 2013

NIU CPA Review Correspondence and Wiley Test Bank

[acamp]

More to that point, I'm in audit, but being a CPA I must be a tax expert! harharhar

Ninja + Wiley Test Bank: [FAR - 81] [REG - 76] [BEC - 88] [AUD - 73](doh!)

Becker Videos: [AUD - 82]

California CPA

[kmaahs]

EA does not share the prestige of CPA.

It really depends on your career goals, though.

Where do you plan to take your career? That would be a starting point for your decision regarding the CPA exam.

C.P.A.

[Anonymous]

I've known a few people who've done both and from what they've told me the EA exam is no joke. Get the CPA, probably a bigger nuisance but will be well worth the extra effort –particularly if you aspire to have your own tax practice one day.

Good luck!

[mla1169]

I think most people here are going to favor the CPA designation but when it comes to being a tax preparer (and especially if you're working for someone else) I don't think theres a notable difference except EA is a federal designation so it doesn't matter what state you're in.

FAR- 77
AUD -49, 71, 84
REG -56,75!
BEC -75

Massachusetts CPA (non reporting) since 3/12.

[Author]

Replies