CPA vs. Tax Attorney: Which is Right for You?

Taxes are a standard part of life, though there is no question they come with many considerations. Some of these considerations deal with which forms to choose, or to file jointly or separately. You might be asking which tax solution is right for you. 

Other considerations come in the form of which tax professional meets your needs. And when it comes to these planning needs, you might ask, “Do I need a tax attorney or a CPA?” 

Whatever your situation, there are differences between tax attorneys and CPAs. Let’s break down some of them so you have a better understanding, and can make the right choice. 

CPA or Tax Attorney?

First and foremost, what is the difference between tax attorneys and CPAs? The biggest is that a tax attorney is a legal professional who has passed the state bar exam. Therefore, these professionals have a law degree and should be considered when it comes to legal matters.

If you are in need of communication with the IRS, for instance then a tax attorney or Enrolled Agent is your best bet. It’s true that CPAs can communicate with the IRS on your behalf. However, the legal training usually gives attorneys a leg up in these matters. There are particular situations, such as tax dispute resolution and tax controversy, in which a tax attorney has desired training.

Simply put, if the IRS contacts you with demands of one kind or another, you likely want a tax attorney or Enrolled Agent. Whatever your tax situation is, it has gained the attention of the IRS. This usually means it is serious enough to warrant a tax attorney vs. a CPA.

But there are other times when a CPA might be your best bet. A CPA is a certified public accountant who has all sorts of accounting skills. This is especially the case when it comes to tax matters. Whether you need a basic tax return filed or have questions about the process, a CPA is likely your best bet. 

When it comes to tax planning, a CPA would have all of your basic answers, unless seeking legal advice.

And yet, there is a third option as well, though most taxpayers are less familiar with it. Enrolled Agents, or EAs, are skilled tax practitioners authorized by the federal government. They are specifically empowered to represent clients before the IRS.

A common scenario in which you would turn to the assistance of an EA would be a tax audit or tax liability. So, why not use a tax attorney or CPA for an IRS audit? There is no reason you can’t, but Enrolled Agents are particularly suited for such matters.

Innovative Tax Relief Has Depth

At Innovative Tax Relief, we understand that tax planning and tax problems are not uniform. They come in all shapes and sizes, with all sorts of variables at play. Because of this, we have built a team of professionals with equal diversity and skill sets.

Whether you want guidance about your options among an EA vs. CPA vs. tax attorney, we can help. We have a diverse group of tax professionals and Enrolled Agents ready to ease your tax burden. Essentially, whatever you are in need of, we have the skills, experience, and tools to help.

Find tax relief today with Innovative Relief Services.