San Jose Certified Public Accountants and Enrolled Agents are two types of accounting professionals that you have to choose from.

We’ve decided once and for all to put the stats on the line and see who takes the prize for the South Bay Area.

EDUCATION

CPA SAN JOSE: A CPA in San Jose usually has an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. They are tested at the state or industry level to acquire their license.

EA SAN JOSE:  An EA in San Jose usually has a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. They are tested at the Federal level to acquire their license.

IRS REPRESENTATION

CPA SAN JOSE: A CPA in San Jose is allowed to represent tax payers to the IRS.

EA SAN JOSE:  An EA credential allows the agent to represent their client in dealings with the IRS. They can intervene in audits, collections, set up installments and settlements with the IRS. EAs are competent in tax court issues.

CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

CPA SAN JOSE: Continuing professional training for a CPA is overseen by State Boards of Accountancy.

EA SAN JOSE:  EAs in San Jose receive supervision of their continuing professional training directly from the Department of the Treasury.

SALARY

CPA SAN JOSE: Average starting salaries for CPAs in San Jose range from $40,000 to $57,000.

EA SAN JOSE: EAs in San Jose can work as accountants, actuaries, and controllers. Their payscale ranges from $40,000 to $110,000 per year.

SPECIALIZATION

CPA SAN JOSE: A CPA should be specialized in accounting, auditing, business law and personal finance.

EA SAN JOSE: An EA must be knowledgeable about taxes, as this is their area of expertise.

FILING BUSINESS TAXES

CPA SAN JOSE: A CPA is allowed to file business taxes on behalf of their client.

EA SAN JOSE:  An Enrolled Agent, is also licensed to file business taxes on behalf of their clients.

COST PER HOUR

CPA SAN JOSE: A CPA in San Jose typically charges 26% more per hour than an EA charges.

CONCLUSION

If you’re in San Jose or the South Bay, and are looking for a CPA, you may want to reconsider your options. In many cases, an EA presents a more affordable and targeted option for your financial needs. That’s because an EA has received the training necessary to resolve issues related to taxation.

Often times going with an EA... just makes cents.