When North Carolina taxpayers start looking for help with tax filings, IRS letters, or business guidance, the first thing many ask is:
“Should I hire a CPA?”

But here’s what most people don’t realize:
The title of the professional matters less than the scope of what they’re legally allowed to do—and how well they do it.

Let’s break down what an Enrolled Agent (EA) is, how it differs from a CPA, and why more people in North Carolina are turning to EAs for smarter tax strategy and IRS resolution.

What Is an Enrolled Agent (EA)?

An Enrolled Agent is a tax professional who is federally licensed by the IRS to represent taxpayers in all 50 states. EAs are tax specialists—focused exclusively on U.S. tax law and IRS procedure while CPAs might or might not have chosen an education path that is specific to taxation.

EAs must:

  • Pass a rigorous three-part IRS exam (or work for the IRS for years)

  • Complete continuing education annually

  • Maintain ethical standards through the U.S. Treasury Department

📌 That means an EA can do everything from filing complex returns to negotiating directly with the IRS and North Carolina Department of Revenue.

CPA vs. EA: What’s the Real Difference?

Feature Enrolled Agent (EA) Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Licensed By IRS (federal) State Board of Accountancy
Focus Area Tax law and IRS procedures Broader: audit, accounting, tax, and finance
Authorized for IRS Representation ✅ Yes ✅ Yes (with tax background)
Recognized in All States ✅ Yes ❌ State-specific license
Best For Tax prep, tax planning, IRS issues Audits, assurance, and broad business finance

In short, if you need help with tax filings, resolution, or planning, an Enrolled Agent is more than qualified to assist with your IRS or North Carolina Tax matters.

Why North Carolina Clients Choose EAs Over CPAs

At Polaris Tax & Accounting, we’ve supported clients in Huntersville, Charlotte, Asheville, and across NC who were previously working with CPAs but felt underserved. Here’s why they made the switch:

✅ More Tax Focused:
We don’t offer audit services or financial statements. We focus 100% on reducing your tax burden, fixing IRS issues, and planning ahead.

✅ Federally Authorized to Represent You:
As EAs, we can speak to the IRS on your behalf—whether you’re facing a CP2000, audit notice, or need a payment plan.

✅ Built for the Modern Taxpayer:
We meet virtually, communicate proactively, and offer fast response times—without long delays or junior staff gatekeeping.

📌 See how we help NC clients deal with IRS notices and back taxes »

When Should You Work with an EA in NC?

You don’t need a CPA license to solve tax problems. You need someone who knows tax law inside and out. Work with an Enrolled Agent if:

  • You got a letter from the IRS and don’t know what to do

  • You want to save money on taxes before filing season

  • You run a business and want help choosing the best tax structure

  • You want a real person—not a call center—handling your return

Polaris: North Carolina’s Tax Experts, Without the CPA Price Tag

Whether you’re in Huntersville, Asheville, Lake Norman, or Charlotte, Polaris Tax & Accounting delivers expert service with real credentials—and without the inflated fees.

We’re Enrolled Agents. We don’t outsource. And we take your tax strategy personally.

👉 Schedule a confidential consultation today
Let’s build your tax strategy the right way—from the ground up.