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Find a Tax Professional

When your tax situation is complex, a qualified professional can save you money, reduce stress, and protect you from IRS problems.

Get matched with a qualified tax professional

Tell us about your situation and we'll connect you with an enrolled agent or CPA who specializes in your needs.

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When to Hire a Tax Professional

If any of these apply to your situation, working with a professional is likely worth the investment.

Complex Income

Self-employment, rental properties, stock options, cryptocurrency, or foreign income

IRS Issues

Audit notices, back taxes owed, penalty abatement, or installment agreements

Life Changes

Marriage, divorce, inheritance, starting a business, or buying/selling a home

Time Constraints

Too busy to file accurately yourself and want peace of mind

Multi-State Filing

Earned income in multiple states or moved during the tax year

Maximizing Deductions

Want expert help to ensure you claim every deduction and credit you qualify for

Types of Tax Professionals

Understanding the differences helps you choose the right fit for your needs and budget.

Enrolled Agent (EA)

Recommended for IRS Issues
$150–$500

Best for: IRS audits, back taxes, tax controversy, specialized tax matters

Credentials: Federally licensed by IRS, Special Enrollment Exam (SEE), unlimited IRS representation rights

IRS representation in all 50 states
Tax specialists (not generalists)
Often more affordable than CPAs
Required continuing education in taxation

CPA (Certified Public Accountant)

$250–$1,500+

Best for: Complex returns, business owners, financial planning, bookkeeping

Credentials: State-licensed, CPA exam, continuing education in accounting

Broad financial expertise
Can handle audits, bookkeeping, payroll
Business advisory services
State-level licensing

Tax Preparer (AFSP)

$100–$300

Best for: Straightforward returns, W-2 income, basic deductions

Credentials: Annual Filing Season Program, IRS PTIN holder

Most affordable option
Good for simple returns
Widely available
IRS-registered with PTIN

Not sure which type of professional you need? See our detailed EA vs CPA comparison.

Where to Find a Tax Professional

IRS Directory

Search the official IRS directory of credentialed tax professionals at irs.treasury.gov

Visit Directory

NAEA Member Search

Find enrolled agents through the National Association of Enrolled Agents

Visit Directory

AICPA CPA Directory

Locate CPAs through the American Institute of CPAs

Visit Directory

State CPA Societies

Your state CPA society can provide local referrals

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Before committing to a tax professional, ask these key questions during your initial consultation.

What is your experience with my specific tax situation?
What are your fees, and do you charge hourly or flat-rate?
Are you available year-round, or only during tax season?
Can you represent me if I get audited by the IRS?
Do you carry professional liability (E&O) insurance?
How do you stay current with tax law changes?
What information do you need from me to get started?
Do you offer a free initial consultation?

Request a Free Consultation

Tell us about your tax situation and we'll connect you with a qualified enrolled agent or CPA who specializes in your needs. No obligation — we'll reach out within 1-2 business days.

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What do you need help with?

Select the option that best describes your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a tax professional cost?
Costs vary by credential and complexity. Tax preparers with AFSP certification charge $100–$300 for simple returns. Enrolled agents typically charge $150–$500. CPAs range from $250–$1,500+ for complex returns with business income, rental properties, or multi-state filing. Many professionals offer free initial consultations.
What is the difference between a CPA and an enrolled agent?
CPAs (Certified Public Accountants) have broad accounting expertise including auditing, bookkeeping, and financial planning. Enrolled Agents (EAs) specialize specifically in taxation and are federally licensed by the IRS. Both can represent you before the IRS, but EAs focus exclusively on tax matters and are often more affordable for tax-only services.
Can an enrolled agent represent me in an IRS audit?
Yes. Enrolled agents have unlimited representation rights before the IRS, meaning they can represent any taxpayer on any tax matter before any IRS office. This is the same level of representation authority as CPAs and tax attorneys.
When should I hire a tax professional instead of using software?
Consider hiring a professional if you have self-employment income, rental properties, stock options, cryptocurrency transactions, multi-state income, IRS notices or audits, or major life changes like marriage, divorce, or starting a business. If your return involves more than a few W-2s and standard deductions, a professional can often save you more than their fee.
Can I still use tax software if I have a professional?
Yes. Many professionals use software as their preparation tool. Some tax software like TurboTax Live and H&R Block offer hybrid models where you file online with CPA or EA review included. This can be a cost-effective middle ground.
How do I verify a tax professional's credentials?
Verify enrolled agents through the IRS Return Preparer Office directory (irs.treasury.gov). Verify CPAs through your state board of accountancy. All paid preparers must have a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) from the IRS. Ask to see their credentials and check for any disciplinary actions.
Is it worth paying for a tax professional?
For complex situations, absolutely. A qualified professional can identify deductions and credits you might miss, help avoid costly mistakes, provide audit protection, and offer year-round tax planning that reduces your overall tax burden. Many clients save more in tax reductions than they pay in professional fees.
What is the difference between a tax professional and a tax preparer?
A "tax preparer" typically refers to someone with basic credentials (PTIN and possibly AFSP certification) who can prepare returns but has limited IRS representation rights. "Tax professional" is a broader term encompassing enrolled agents, CPAs, and tax attorneys who have advanced credentials and full IRS representation authority.

Prefer DIY?

Compare tax software for self-filing

Compare Software

Learn About EAs

Everything you need to know about enrolled agents

Enrolled Agent Guide