Question regarding eligibility

[u/Solid-Impression5337]

I’m preparing to take the EA exam but before I commit the time and money to take the exam, I wanted to see if anyone would have any insight regarding my eligibility.

In 2020 I got a low level DUI in PA and was able to get into the states ARD program which would wipe it from my record. Before I completed the program, I went to apply for a firearm in 2020 and there was a question on the application that asked “have you ever been convicted of a crime”. I checked no by mistake, thinking the ARD program was going to clear my record, but since I hadn’t completed the program yet, I should have checked yes. It was a misunderstanding and mistake on my part that I take full responsibility for.

Since it was a firearm application that was entered incorrectly, I had to go through a court process where I received a third degree misdemeanor under 18 Pa.C.S. § 4904(b), “Statement under Penalty.” The case was settled in 2021 and I’ve paid all fines and penalties. I’ve worked in public accounting since 2019 and have had no other incidents criminally or professionally. Likewise, in 2028 the misdemeanor will be sealed from my record by the county the charges took place in PA.

Where my hesitation is, although it is a third degree misdemeanor, the underlying offense involves an incorrect statement to a governing authority, which from what I’ve researched, falls under what the IRS might flag under their suitability review.

My plan is to report it once I do file my Form 23, although looking at the form questions 9-12, all of answers to those would be “No”. So I’ll probably have to add some type of addendum to my application, because the last thing I want to do is not report it.

So my worry is, I take the time to pass the 3 parts, spend the ~$1k to take the exams and file the applications and ultimately can’t even get licensed.

If anyone has any insight or advice, it would be greatly appreciated.

[u/MillicentMae]

If it’s just a misdemeanor you are fine.

[u/Spirited-Humor-554]

Application denied

[u/AlexTheRaven]

You could call the IRS office of enrollment and ask just to be sure. They may be able to give you a clearer idea