Enrolled Agent Salary Guide 2025: How Much Do EAs Make?
If you're considering a career as an Enrolled Agent, understanding the salary potential is crucial for your decision. This comprehensive guide covers enrolled agent salary data for 2025, including factors that affect earnings and strategies to maximize your income.
Average Enrolled Agent Salary in 2025
The average enrolled agent salary in the United States is $58,000 - $62,000 per year. However, this figure varies significantly based on experience, location, and employment type.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience | Average Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (0-2 years) | $45,000 | $38,000 - $52,000 |
| Early career (2-5 years) | $55,000 | $48,000 - $65,000 |
| Mid-career (5-10 years) | $70,000 | $60,000 - $85,000 |
| Experienced (10-20 years) | $85,000 | $72,000 - $105,000 |
| Senior/Expert (20+ years) | $95,000+ | $85,000 - $130,000+ |
Highest-Paying Industries for Enrolled Agents
Where you work matters. Here are the top-paying industries for EAs:
1. Private Practice/Self-Employed
Average income: $75,000 - $150,000+Self-employed EAs have the highest earning potential but also face business risks and overhead costs. Successful practice owners can earn well into six figures.
2. Large Accounting Firms
Average salary: $70,000 - $100,000Working for Big 4 or large regional firms offers excellent compensation, benefits, and career advancement opportunities.
3. Corporate Tax Departments
Average salary: $65,000 - $90,000In-house tax positions at corporations offer stable employment, good benefits, and regular hours outside of tax season.
4. Financial Services Industry
Average salary: $60,000 - $85,000Banks, investment firms, and insurance companies employ EAs for tax planning and compliance roles.
5. Small to Mid-size CPA Firms
Average salary: $50,000 - $75,000These firms offer good work-life balance and mentorship opportunities, though salaries may be lower than larger firms.
6. Tax Preparation Chains
Average salary: $35,000 - $55,000Companies like H&R Block and Jackson Hewitt offer entry points into the profession, though compensation tends to be on the lower end.
Geographic Salary Variations
Enrolled agent salaries vary significantly by location:
Highest-Paying States
| State | Average EA Salary | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|
| California | $72,000 | 151 |
| New York | $70,000 | 139 |
| Massachusetts | $68,000 | 135 |
| Washington | $67,000 | 118 |
| Connecticut | $65,000 | 121 |
Lowest-Paying States
| State | Average EA Salary | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi | $42,000 | 84 |
| West Virginia | $43,000 | 89 |
| Arkansas | $44,000 | 89 |
| Alabama | $45,000 | 90 |
| Kentucky | $46,000 | 92 |
Metropolitan Area Premiums
Working in major metropolitan areas typically commands a 15-30% salary premium:
- New York City: +25-30%
- San Francisco: +25-30%
- Los Angeles: +20-25%
- Chicago: +15-20%
- Houston: +10-15%
Employed vs. Self-Employed: Income Comparison
Employed EA Benefits
- Steady paycheck: Predictable income year-round
- Benefits: Health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off
- Lower risk: No client acquisition or overhead concerns
- Professional development: Firm-sponsored training and education
Self-Employed EA Benefits
- Higher earning potential: Keep more of what you bill
- Flexibility: Set your own hours and rates
- Tax advantages: Business deductions and retirement plan options
- Equity building: Create a valuable, sellable practice
Income Comparison
| Career Year | Employed EA | Self-Employed EA |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $48,000 | $35,000 |
| Year 3 | $58,000 | $55,000 |
| Year 5 | $68,000 | $80,000 |
| Year 10 | $85,000 | $120,000+ |
Strategies to Maximize Your EA Salary
1. Specialize in High-Value Niches
Specialized EAs command higher fees. Consider focusing on:
- High-net-worth individuals
- Small business taxation
- International tax
- IRS representation and controversy
- Specific industries (real estate, healthcare, etc.)
2. Obtain Additional Certifications
Complementary credentials can increase your value:
- CPA (if pursuing broader accounting career)
- CFP (financial planning)
- ACAT (Accredited Tax Advisor)
- State-specific certifications
3. Build Technical Skills
Employers value EAs with:
- Expertise in tax software (Drake, Lacerte, ProConnect)
- Data analysis capabilities
- Understanding of tax technology trends
- Research and writing skills
4. Develop Client Relationships
Whether employed or self-employed, EAs who excel at client relationships earn more through:
- Higher retention rates
- Client referrals
- Expanded service offerings
- Premium pricing for trusted advisors
5. Negotiate Effectively
Don't leave money on the table:
- Research salary data before interviews
- Highlight your EA credential's value
- Document your contributions and results
- Consider total compensation, not just salary
EA Salary vs. Other Tax Credentials
How does the EA salary compare to other credentials?
| Credential | Average Salary | Education Required |
|---|---|---|
| EA | $60,000 | None |
| CPA | $75,000 | 150 credit hours |
| Tax Attorney | $95,000 | JD degree |
| AFSP Holder | $45,000 | None |
| Non-credentialed Preparer | $35,000 | None |
Career Growth and Advancement
EA career paths offer multiple advancement opportunities:
Corporate Track
1. Staff Tax Accountant 2. Senior Tax Accountant 3. Tax Manager 4. Senior Tax Manager 5. Tax DirectorFirm Track
1. Staff/Associate 2. Senior Associate 3. Manager 4. Senior Manager 5. Partner/PrincipalEntrepreneurial Track
1. Solo Practitioner 2. Small Firm Owner 3. Multi-preparer Practice 4. Regional Tax PracticeThe Bottom Line on EA Salary
The enrolled agent credential offers a strong return on investment with salaries ranging from $45,000 for entry-level positions to $150,000+ for experienced practitioners and business owners. Your earning potential depends on your experience, specialization, location, and career choices.
Compared to the minimal education requirements and relatively short certification timeline, the EA credential provides excellent career opportunities and earning potential in the tax profession.
Ready to start your journey to becoming an Enrolled Agent? Our practice questions will help you pass the exam efficiently and begin your rewarding career as a licensed tax professional.