{"id":3120,"date":"2024-11-21T19:22:47","date_gmt":"2024-11-22T01:22:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/?p=3120"},"modified":"2026-06-16T17:18:19","modified_gmt":"2026-06-16T23:18:19","slug":"how-long-it-takes-to-become-an-enrolled-agent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/how-long-it-takes-to-become-an-enrolled-agent\/","title":{"rendered":"How Long it Takes to Become an Enrolled Agent"},"content":{"rendered":" <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don&#8217;t have to go to college to get a rewarding and lucrative career.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The enrolled agent profession is a fantastic opportunity for the math whiz who&#8217;s tired of the education hamster wheel\u2014because, let&#8217;s face it, it can be exhausting!<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After all, the average person who only has a high school degree makes a median income of around<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/careeroutlook\/2024\/data-on-display\/education-pays\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> $46,000<\/a> annually. However, as an enrolled agent, you can make<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gleim.com\/enrolled-agent-review\/enrolled-agent-salary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"> $64,264<\/a> every year. <strong>That&#8217;s almost an extra 20 grand in your pocket every single year, no extra school required!<\/strong><\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But how long does it take to become an enrolled agent, <em>really<\/em>? And is it even worth your time?<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I\u2019ll break down the step-by-step timeline, so you\u2019ll know what to expect as you prepare to earn your EA license. Let\u2019s dive into what it really takes to become an enrolled agent, from studying for (and passing!) the EA exam to applying for your license.<\/p> <p class=\"custom_key wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list custom_underline\"> <li><strong>Becoming an EA Takes About a Year<\/strong>: For most people, it takes around 6-14 months to prepare for the EA exam, pass all three parts, and complete the licensing process.<\/li> <li><strong>Three-Part Exam<\/strong>: The EA exam covers individual taxes, business taxes, and representation practices. Each part can be taken separately, giving flexibility to study and prepare.<\/li> <li><strong>EA Exam Prep is Key<\/strong>: Enrolling in an EA prep course and using study materials helps you pass each part of the IRS Special Enrollment Exam on the first try.<\/li> <li><strong>Ongoing Education is Required<\/strong>: Enrolled agents must complete 72 hours of continuing education every three years (and a minimum of 16 hours yearly, with at least 2 of them in ethics) to keep their license current.<\/li> <li><strong>Flexibility to Work in Various Tax Areas<\/strong>: As an EA, you can represent clients in personal and business tax matters, making it a versatile career path within the tax profession.<\/li> <\/ul> <style> table { border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; margin: 20px auto; \/* Centers the table on the page *\/ text-align: center; color: #333; width: auto; \/* Table width adjusts to its content *\/ max-width: 100%; \/* Prevents overflow on smaller screens *\/ border: 1px solid #ddd; } th, td { border: 1px solid #ddd; padding: 10px; } th { background-color: #0793CF; color: white; font-weight: bold; } td:first-child { text-align: center; } input[type=\"checkbox\"] { transform: scale(1.2); cursor: pointer; } tbody tr:hover { background-color: #f4f4f4; } .title-row { background-color: #0793CF; color: white; font-size: 1.2em; font-weight: bold; padding: 15px; text-align: center; } <\/style> <div style=\"overflow-x: auto;\"> <!-- Wrapper for horizontal scrolling --> <table> <thead> <tr> <td class=\"title-row\" colspan=\"3\">Timeline to Become an Enrolled Agent Checklist<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <th>Complete<\/th> <th>Task<\/th> <th>Estimated Time<\/th> <\/tr> <\/thead> <tbody> <tr> <td><input type=\"checkbox\"><\/td> <td>1. Prepare for the EA Exam<\/td> <td>3-6 Months<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <td><input type=\"checkbox\"><\/td> <td>2. Take the EA Exam<\/td> <td>2-6 Months<\/td> <\/tr> <tr> <td><input type=\"checkbox\"><\/td> <td>3. Apply for EA Certification<\/td> <td>1-2 Months<\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody> <\/table> <\/div> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-1-prepare-to-take-the-ea-exam\"><strong>Step 1: Prepare to Take the EA Exam<\/strong><\/h2> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-estimated-time-3-6-months\"><strong>\u23f0 Estimated Time: 3-6 Months<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The path to becoming an enrolled agent begins with passing the EA exam, officially known as the IRS Special Enrollment Exam (SEE). This three-part exam covers individual taxes, business taxes, and representation, practices, and procedures. But before you can jump right in, you\u2019ll need to do some prep work.<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Choose a Prep Course<\/strong>: Most candidates start by selecting an EA exam prep course. These courses provide study materials and a structured path to learn tax laws, tax codes, and IRS procedures.<\/li> <li><strong>Gather Study Materials<\/strong>: In addition to a course, you might gather extra study materials, like review books, study notes, or flashcards, to help you cover each part of the exam.<\/li> <li><strong>Create a Study Plan<\/strong>: A smart study plan is essential. Most people find that a 3-6 month prep period is enough to study all three parts of the exam without feeling overwhelmed.<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep in mind that these numbers can vary widely depending on your unique circumstances. For example, if you already work in this field and have taken courses and read books, you may need no more than a month to prepare.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, if you&#8217;re not a good test taker, have no experience in the subject matter, or have a very busy lifestyle, it may even take 8 months or more to prepare. It truly depends. However, for the sake of a well-rounded average, 3-6 months is a sound estimate.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-2-take-the-enrolled-agent-exam\"><strong>Step 2: Take the Enrolled Agent Exam<\/strong><\/h2> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-estimated-time-2-6-months\"><strong>\u23f0 Estimated Time: 2-6 Months<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The EA exam is divided into three separate parts, and you\u2019ll have to pass each one to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/become-an-enrolled-agent\/\">become an enrolled agent<\/a>. The three parts are:<\/p> <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Individuals<\/strong> &#8211; Focuses on personal tax returns and tax issues<\/li> <li><strong>Businesses<\/strong> &#8211; Deals with business tax preparation and tax law for corporations, partnerships, and more<\/li> <li><strong>Representation, Practices, and Procedures<\/strong> &#8211; Covers client representation, ethical issues, and how to manage tax compliance matters.<\/li> <\/ol> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are factors to consider when estimating how long it will take to schedule and pass every section of the EA exam:<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Scheduling the Exam<\/strong>: Once you feel ready, you\u2019ll register for the exam through the IRS website. You can schedule each part separately, allowing you to focus on one section at a time.<\/li> <li><strong>Passing Scores and Re-testing<\/strong>: You\u2019ll need a passing score on each part, but don\u2019t stress too much if you don\u2019t pass the first time. You can retake each part up to four times in a single testing window (May 1 to the last day of February).<\/li> <li><strong>Time Between Exams<\/strong>: Many candidates prefer to spread out the exams over a few months, so they can study thoroughly for each section. This approach means the entire exam process might take 2-6 months.<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This timeline assumes you spread out your exams, giving you 1-2 months to study for each EA exam part.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With proper EA exam prep, passing scores are achievable, and you\u2019ll find the IRS special enrollment examination manageable with the right study techniques.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-3-apply-for-the-ea-license\"><strong>Step 3: Apply for the EA License<\/strong><\/h2> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-estimated-time-1-2-months\"><strong>\u23f0 Estimated Time: 1-2 Months<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you\u2019ve passed all three parts of the EA exam, it\u2019s time to apply for your EA license. This step is straightforward but involves a bit of paperwork and a suitability check by the IRS.<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Obtain a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number)<\/strong>: You\u2019ll need a current PTIN, which allows you to prepare tax returns for clients legally.<\/li> <li><strong>Complete the Application and Suitability Check<\/strong>: Submit an application to the IRS, and they\u2019ll conduct a background check, which looks into any outstanding tax liabilities and\/or criminal history. Assuming you have no major issues, this check is usually just a formality.<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This licensing process doesn\u2019t take long, but it does add some waiting time. The investigations into your history can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-4-get-your-ea-certification-and-starting-your-career\"><strong>Step 4: Get Your EA Certification and Starting Your Career<\/strong><\/h2> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-estimated-time-ongoing\"><strong>\u23f0 Estimated Time: Ongoing<\/strong><\/h3> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With your licensure approved, congratulations\u2014you\u2019re officially an enrolled agent! But the journey doesn\u2019t end there. To maintain your EA status, you\u2019ll need to stay updated with tax laws and IRS regulations.<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Continuing Education<\/strong>: The IRS requires enrolled agents to complete 72 hours of continuing education every three years. You must complete a minimum of 16 hours every year, 2 of those hours in ethics courses. This ongoing learning ensures that EAs stay informed about recent tax laws and changes to the tax code.<\/li> <li><strong>Networking and Career Development<\/strong>: Many EAs expand their knowledge through seminars, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/best-enrolled-agent-prep-courses\/\">EA review courses<\/a>, and networking events. Becoming part of a community of tax professionals is a great way to stay informed and grow your career.<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you decide to work for a tax firm, start your own business, or specialize in complex tax issues, maintaining your knowledge is key to a successful EA career.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sample-timeline-becoming-an-enrolled-agent\"><strong>Sample Timeline: Becoming an Enrolled Agent<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a quick timeline to illustrate a typical journey to becoming an EA:<\/p> <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>EA Exam Prep (3-6 months)<\/strong> \u2013 Take an EA course, gather study materials, and follow a study plan.<\/li> <li><strong>Taking the EA Exam (2-6 months)<\/strong> \u2013 Complete each part of the three-part exam, allowing time for potential retakes if needed.<\/li> <li><strong>License Application (1-2 months)<\/strong> \u2013 Apply for your EA license, including a suitability check and PTIN application.<\/li> <li><strong>Ongoing Education (Every 3 Years)<\/strong> \u2013 Complete continuing education to keep up with new tax code changes and IRS requirements.<\/li> <\/ol> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-total-estimated-timeline-6-to-14-months\"><strong>\u23f0 Total Estimated Timeline: 6 to 14 Months<\/strong><\/h3> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-long-does-it-take-to-become-an-enrolled-agent-adding-it-all-up\"><strong>How Long Does it Take to Become an Enrolled Agent? Adding it All Up<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On average, it can take around 6-14 months to become an enrolled agent if you\u2019re working part-time and studying at a steady pace. However, if you\u2019re fully dedicated and have a background in tax, you might be able to fast-track your timeline and achieve your EA designation in 4-6 months.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-conclusion\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Becoming an enrolled agent is a rewarding journey, especially if you\u2019re interested in tax law, business tax preparation, and representing clients in complex tax matters.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While the process involves study, exams, and a few months of waiting, it\u2019s shorter and often more flexible than other certifications, like becoming a Certified Public Accountant.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you consider this career path, remember that it\u2019s not just about passing the EA exam. It\u2019s also about ongoing learning, gaining tax knowledge, and being able to confidently represent taxpayers before the IRS. By following a timeline that works for your lifestyle, you can become an enrolled agent in as few as 6 months.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good luck on your EA journey!<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs\"><strong>FAQs<\/strong><\/h2> <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1731653506745\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How long does it take to become an enrolled agent?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It typically takes about 6-14 months to become an enrolled agent, depending on your study pace and familiarity with tax topics.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1731653513565\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Do I need to take an EA prep course to pass the exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">While it\u2019s not required, many candidates find that an EA prep course helps them understand the material and improves their chances of achieving passing scores on the first try.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1731653519963\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What topics are covered in the EA exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The EA exam has three sections: individual taxes, business taxes, and representation, practices, and procedures, covering both personal and business tax matters. Much of this is based on the Internal Revenue Code.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1731653525873\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How many times can I take each part of the EA exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You can take each part of the EA exam up to four times per testing window, which runs from May 1st to the last day of February each year.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1731653531744\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What is the continuing education requirement for enrolled agents?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Enrolled agents need to complete 72 hours of continuing education every three years to keep their license active and stay current on tax laws. They must complete a minimum of 16 hours annually, with 2 of the 16 hours in ethics topics.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> ","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You don&#8217;t have to go to college to get a rewarding and lucrative career. The enrolled agent profession is a fantastic opportunity for the math whiz who&#8217;s tired of the education hamster wheel\u2014because, let&#8217;s face it, it can be exhausting! After all, the average person who only has a high school degree makes a median [&hellip;]<\/p> ","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":3121,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,241],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3120","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-careers-education","category-accounting"],"acf":{"external_author":[129],"external_editor":"","select_template":"default","not_show_feature_image":false,"hide_toc":false},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/11\/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-an-enrolled-768x427.png","author_info":{"display_name":"","author_link":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/author\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.7 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How Long it Takes to Become an Enrolled Agent<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"How long does it take to become an enrolled agent... really? 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