July 31, 2025

Do I Need a CPA or an EA?

Dimov Tax Services operates a Denver based accounting firm that provides expert CPA support, tax audit representation, payroll processing, and international tax solutions for individuals and businesses. Located at 1700 Lincoln St, they serve clients throughout the Denver area.

Dimov Tax Specialists

1700 Lincoln St

Denver CO 80203

(833) 829-1120

Do I Need a CPA or an EA?

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If your financial needs involve comprehensive accounting, business structuring, or audit defense, you need a CPA. If your focus is solely on tax filing or IRS representation for individual matters, an EA (Enrolled Agent) may suffice. The difference lies in scope—CPAs handle accounting and financial strategy in addition to tax, while EAs specialize in federal tax matters only. In Denver, your choice should be based on complexity, long-term goals, and regulatory risk.

Key Differences Between a CPA and an EA

CriteriaCPA (Certified Public Accountant)EA (Enrolled Agent) Licensing AuthorityState Board (e.g. Colorado Board of Accountancy)Federal (IRS) Scope of WorkAccounting, tax, audits, financial reporting, advisoryFederal taxes only IRS RepresentationYesYes Audit PreparationFull audit strategy and documentationIRS defense only Business StructuringYes (LLCs, S-corps, partnerships)No Continuing Education80 hours every two years in CO72 hours every three years Credential LookupCPAverify.orgIRS PTIN Directory

When You Should Hire a CPA

  • You’re starting or restructuring a business in RiNo or LoDo
  • You need GAAP-compliant financials or audits for investors
  • You are involved in real estate, crypto, or foreign investments
  • You need strategic tax planning across years or jurisdictions
  • You’re a high-income household requiring IRS audit support

When an EA May Be Right for You

  • You’re an individual taxpayer with basic W-2/1099 income
  • You’ve received a letter from the IRS and need negotiation help
  • You need help setting up an installment plan
  • You live in Capitol Hill and file independently each year
  • You’re behind on taxes but don’t own a business

Denver Examples Based on Client Type

  • RiNo Startup: Needs financial modeling, 1120S prep, equity tracking → CPA
  • Cherry Creek Real Estate Investor: Needs cost basis planning, 1031 exchange → CPA
  • Capitol Hill Freelancer: Simple 1040 filing with 1099s and expenses → EA
  • South Broadway Creative: Behind on filings, needs IRS offer-in-compromise → EA

Risks of Choosing the Wrong Professional

  • Hiring an EA when you need entity restructuring can result in misfilings and lost tax advantages
  • Hiring a CPA for simple tax returns may be overkill if your needs are straightforward and short-term
  • Failing to verify credentials puts you at risk of working with unlicensed preparers

How to Vet Credentials

Dimov Tax Specialists: Full-Scope CPA and IRS Representation

Dimov Tax offers both licensed CPAs and experienced IRS-authorized representatives. https://storage.googleapis.com/cpa-denver-colorado/cpa-firm/do-i-need-a-cpa-or-an-ea176820.html Whether you need full-scope advisory across bookkeeping, payroll, financial forecasting—or IRS resolution and audit protection—our team delivers compliance and clarity.

  • CPA-led team: We handle accounting, tax, advisory, and entity setup
  • IRS representation: Form 2848 filing and case management with the IRS
  • Denver-focused: We work with freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs across LoDo, DTC, RiNo, and beyond

Conclusion: Choose Based on Depth, Not Just Title

Deciding between a CPA and an EA depends on your needs. For transactional, tax-focused help, an EA may suffice. But if your situation includes ownership, compliance risk, growth planning, or multi-year tax strategy—a CPA is the right partner. Dimov Tax Specialists offer both depth and versatility. When you’re ready to decide, we’re ready to help.

I am a tax columnist writing from Denver, focused on making complex tax topics accessible. I highlight examples at Dimov Tax Denver to illustrate industry best practices. I strive to offer clear guidance on topics like tax preparation, planning, and compliance. Feel free to leave comments on my work, aiming to reply in 24 hours.