When tax season rolls around—or worse, when the IRS sends a notice—many Florida taxpayers find themselves asking:
“Should I hire a CPA, an Enrolled Agent, or just use a regular tax preparer?”

It’s a fair question—and an important one. The person you choose to handle your taxes could save you thousands… or cost you thousands if they don’t know what they’re doing.

At Polaris Tax & Accounting, we believe informed clients make better decisions. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between a CPA, an EA (Enrolled Agent), and a general tax preparer, and help you decide which one is right for your situation.

What’s the Real Difference Between an EA, CPA, and Tax Preparer?

Credential Licensing Body Area of Focus IRS Representation?
Enrolled Agent (EA) IRS (federal) Taxes only ✅ Yes, unlimited
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) State board Accounting, audit, sometimes tax ✅ Yes, unlimited
Tax Preparer (unlicensed) None required Varies, often seasonal ❌ No authority

What Is an Enrolled Agent?

An Enrolled Agent (EA) is a federally licensed tax expert, authorized by the IRS to represent taxpayers in audits, collections, and appeals. EAs focus exclusively on tax law and must pass a comprehensive three-part IRS exam, then maintain their license with annual continuing education.

If your needs involve tax resolution, strategic planning, or complex filings, EAs are among the most qualified professionals available.

👉 Want a deeper dive?
Read: What Is an Enrolled Agent? Understanding the Role, Benefits, and How They Compare to CPAs

What Is a CPA?

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a licensed accountant authorized by their state board. While some CPAs specialize in tax, many focus on:

  • Financial audits

  • Business accounting

  • Controller/CFO services

  • Financial reporting

A CPA can represent you before the IRS as well just like EAs.

CPAs are great for businesses that need broad accounting services, but they’re not always the best fit for tax resolution or aggressive tax planning.

What About Regular Tax Preparers?

Here’s the scary part—in Florida, anyone can call themselves a “tax preparer.”

There’s no license required, no exam to pass, and no continuing education mandated. Many of these preparers:

  • Use generic software with no tax planning insight

  • Have no authority to deal with the IRS

  • Are unavailable after April 15

  • Can make critical errors that you’re legally responsible for

Even if their price looks attractive up front, the cost of working with an unlicensed preparer can be devastating if something goes wrong.

When Should You Work with an EA?

If you’re facing any of the following, an Enrolled Agent is likely your best choice:

  • You owe back taxes or received an IRS notice

  • You’re self-employed and need strategic quarterly planning

  • You own rental property or short-term rentals

  • You’ve had major life or income changes (inheritance, sale of a home, marriage/divorce)

  • You want to pay less in taxes legally—not just file the forms

Our clients come to Polaris because they’re tired of guessing—and they want clarity, strategy, and support.

👉 Already dealing with IRS issues?
Read: Florida Tax Problems? Why an Enrolled Agent May Be the Best Professional to Help

Why Polaris Puts EAs at the Center of Our Firm

Polaris Tax & Accounting is built around licensed Enrolled Agents for a reason:

  • We don’t just file—we plan, project, and defend.

  • We don’t disappear after tax season.

  • We don’t pass off clients to seasonal staff.

We believe your tax professional should know how to reduce your liability, defend your return, and build a proactive strategy for the future. That’s why our team leads with EA credentials and real-world tax planning experience.

How to Choose the Right Professional

When evaluating a tax pro in Florida, ask:

  • Are you licensed to represent me before the IRS?

  • Do you specialize in tax law year-round?

  • What kind of clients do you usually work with?

  • Do you offer strategic tax planning—or just data entry?

If the answers are vague, you’re not in the right place.

Bottom Line: Know Who’s Actually Working for You

Choosing between an EA, CPA, or tax preparer comes down to this:
Do you want someone to just enter numbers? Or do you want someone who can reduce risk, lower your tax bill, and stand up to the IRS if needed?

If you’re in Florida and need real tax help—not just basic filing—an Enrolled Agent from Polaris is ready to help.

📍 Explore Your Options

✅ Learn more: Florida EA Tax Help – Polaris Tax & Accounting
✅ Schedule your consultation: https://calendly.com/polaris/newclient