At a glance
- A CPA is one option for tax preparation. An Enrolled Agent (EA) is another.
- Ask about experience with your actual tax situation, the work included and who will review your return.
- At FFT Tax, Jasper Zhao is an Enrolled Agent, not a CPA.
Do I need a CPA for tax preparation?
No. Tax preparation is not limited to CPAs. The IRS recognizes several types of preparers, including Enrolled Agents. If you searched for a “CPA for taxes,” start by identifying the help you need: filing a return, reporting an overseas account, correcting a prior year or responding to a notice. Read the IRS guide to choosing a tax professional.
What is the difference between an EA and a CPA?
An Enrolled Agent (EA) is licensed by the IRS. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is licensed by a state or other U.S. accountancy board. Both credentials provide broad rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS. Their credentials are different, and each professional’s experience matters. See the IRS explanation of credentials and representation rights.
What should I ask before choosing a tax preparer?
Bring a short description of your situation rather than trying to choose from initials alone. These questions make the conversation more useful:
- Have you handled work like mine? Mention self-employment, rental properties, stock compensation, overseas gifts, foreign investments or a change in tax residency.
- Which filings are included? Ask which years, federal and state returns, and separate information returns the engagement covers.
- Who prepares and reviews the work? Find out who will answer your questions before you sign.
- What does the fee cover? Confirm the scope in writing, including whether bookkeeping, amendments or notice responses are separate services.
- How will we exchange records? Ask how to upload documents securely and follow up on missing information.
For example, receiving a gift from overseas may raise different questions from running an LLC. Describe the transaction and the years involved so the preparer can assess the work before quoting.
Who provides tax services at FFT Tax?
FFT Tax is Foundation Finance & Tax, also known as 基石财税. Jasper Zhao is an Enrolled Agent (EA), not a CPA. We provide U.S. tax services with English and Chinese communication. Our work includes:
- Individual tax preparation, including Forms 1040 and 1040-NR, investments, rentals and prior-year corrections.
- Small-business returns and bookkeeping for self-employed owners, LLCs, partnerships and corporations.
- International tax and foreign reporting, including foreign gifts, accounts, investments and missed filings.
- ITIN application support and tax notice assistance.
Start with the tax years, what changed and any deadline you know. We confirm the scope and fee before work begins. Meet Jasper and learn about his qualifications.
How can I check a preparer’s credentials?
The IRS tax professional guide links to its directory of preparers with recognized credentials and selected qualifications. Check credentials separately from reviews or advertising. A credential helps you understand a professional’s qualifications; ask about relevant experience and the proposed services as well.