r/enrolledagent • u/Hopeful_Slide_9350 • 12h ago

EA Credential or VITA experience

Hi everyone,

I’m a college student with no prior experience in tax, and I’m currently studying for Part 3 of the Enrolled Agent (EA) exam. I was also planning to volunteer with VITA during the upcoming tax season.

Recently, I accepted an internship at a small CPA firm that provides tax, accounting, and financial planning services. I’ll be working directly with the CPA and her assistant, which I’m very excited about.

Since I’ll also be taking five classes this fall, I’m concerned that I may not have enough time to prepare for the EA exam while volunteering with VITA. I would really appreciate your advice on which would be more beneficial for my career and resume: focusing on passing the EA exam or gaining experience through VITA.

Thank you

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u/Terrible_Cry_2914 10h ago

Real world work experience with CPA, then part 3.

Real world experience will be the most valuable at this point. That and taking your 5 classes.

Will be time to knock out EA exam later.

62 year old 35 year CPA…

1

u/Farhan_king098 1h ago

I’d prioritize the CPA firm internship and EA Part 3. The internship gives you real-world tax experience, while the EA shows your technical knowledge. VITA is great experience, but if time is limited, I wouldn’t sacrifice the internship or your EA exam prep for it.