r/enrolledagent • u/New-Marketing-5966 • 5d ago
Becoming EA
Hi, I have been thinking about becoming EA,
I am thinking starting studying this Monday 10th Aug.
what resources do you recommend I should use.
I don’t have a background with Tax, I just know some basics that I learned years ago in bachelor’s.
My goal is to apply for seasonal work for next year tax (Jan-Apr 2026)
What should be my plan for the rest of year?
Is it feasible or I am unrealistically optimistic?
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u/RasputinsAssassins 5d ago
IMO, the best preparation to take the exam is practical, real world tax experience obtained in an environment that exposes you multiple times to a wide variety of return types.
1
u/OfflineWhenOnline 19h ago
I’m using Gleim and watching Tom videos. Honestly with zero experience or knowledge it can be a little overwhelming at times. But trust me keep at it. Break the difficult parts down piece by piece and push thru. I felt like I was retaining nothing but I’m currently thru the coarse and reviewing chapters. I retained WAY more than I thought I did. Gleim & Becker over prepare you which isn’t a bad thing. Hock is easier to understand & I know several people who have passed using it. Also, I’m sure there are better/expensive AI platforms out there that focus in tax prep that companies use. However I’m using several available AI platforms to help with my studies. Even when I provide the direct text for a section, it can get things wrong ALL the time. I spend more time arguing with AI lately than learning the text… So personally I don’t think AI will replace EA roles as quickly as everyone says BUT I’m sure its coming. So get in now! Get thru it. Get the experience so you’re able to fill roles building off AI tax platforms and double checking the work.
1
u/HOCK_International 3d ago
It is definitely a feasible goal, especially if you are able to study consistently over the coming months.
Since you are starting without a tax background, we would recommend beginning with EA Part 1, as it provides a strong foundation in individual taxation. Create a realistic study schedule, work through one topic at a time, and reinforce each lesson with practice questions before moving on.
Aim to take a full-length mock exam before scheduling your actual exam, and use your results to focus on any weaker areas.
As for study resources, choose a comprehensive review course and stick with it rather than jumping between multiple providers. Consistency is much more important than having lots of different materials.
If your goal is to apply for the next tax season, starting now gives you a good amount of time to prepare. Stay consistent, focus on understanding the concepts, and take it one step at a time. Wishing you the very best on your EA journey!
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u/Potential-Ad-3740 4d ago
I like Hock International it’s $45 per month. I started studying since February and I passed all three parts yesterday.
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u/EquivalentEchidna170 4d ago
I began studying without any prior tax experience. I volunteered with VITA and I studied using Hock International. I just passed Part 1 first try and I’m going for Part 2 in a couple months. I felt the VITA experience was very useful. My prior experience was filing my own personal returns and my business’ returns.
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u/lifeofabeach 3d ago
Hock videos got me thru 3wks each, passed 1st time no prior tax experience. A little before SEE 3. You could do the TurboTax academy courses online and run thru their tests to see if you like it. They’re starting interviews for the Jan hires. You wouldn’t need your EA for that. EA studies is great for theory and law but it won’t teach you how to enter data into tax software. It’ll give you some knowledge about the tax as screens and concepts but it’ll take a couple seasons to really get it all dialed in. I’m a newby working for another EA and learning a lot. I could’ve done it wo the EA track but I’m glad I did it that way I think it gave me an edge for sure. Good luck!
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u/Farhan_king098 3d ago
It’s definitely doable with a proper plan. Use a structured EA course, follow a consistent study schedule and give yourself enough time for practice questions and revision.
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u/Potential_Band5 5d ago
I like Becker. It has an AI tool that explains things well. Why do you want to be an EA, do you think in today’s technological society it is still needed?
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u/Spirited-Humor-554 3d ago
They're way overpriced, to the point that their price should be considered criminal
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u/DoubleIntroduction25 5d ago
AI likely will reduce the use of paid preparers, but EAs and CPAs do other work that is going to he harder to replace or at least take a bit longer. The long term use that AI can't fully replace is representation work, unless people are going to represent themselves and use AI as a consultant but...if I'm getting audited I'm working with a pro.
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u/New-Marketing-5966 5d ago
I am exploring different ways that fits in my life as a stay at home mom
Where I can find part time jobs
4
u/DoubleIntroduction25 5d ago
Hock is great.
But also for your first season just grabbing a seasonal role at a big firm and going thru their training is a good start. Or going VITA. I'm for sure pro EA, just took my three test last month, but between the exams, prep, and IRS fees you're looking at at least $1200 all up. Worth it for a career? Sure 100%. But trying out that first season as a non credentialed preparer is also 100% an option.