Enrolled Agent vs CPA: Which Tax Credential to Pursue?
The Enrolled Agent (EA) is a federal tax specialist credential focused purely on taxation; the CPA is a broader accounting license. For a tax-focused career, the EA is faster and cheaper to earn.
| Enrolled Agent | CPA Exam | |
|---|---|---|
| Exam body | IRS | AICPA |
| Questions | 100 | 100 |
| Time limit | 210 min | 240 min |
| Passing score | 70% | 75% |
| Topics covered | 3 | 6 |
| AskBoudin price | $11.99/mo | $11.99/mo |
Which should you take?
Choose the EA if you want to specialize in tax representation quickly. Choose the CPA for a broader accounting career and the ability to sign audited financials.
Enrolled Agent prep
The highest credential awarded by the IRS. Authorizes unlimited practice rights before the IRS for all tax matters.
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Three Core sections (AUD, FAR, REG) plus one Discipline of your choice (BAR, ISC, or TCP). Each section is a separate 4-hour exam. Passing score: 75 on a 0–99 scale.
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