Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent Careers in Florida
Tax preparers and enrolled agents assist individuals and businesses in preparing and filing federal and state tax returns. Enrolled Agents hold the highest IRS credential for tax professionals and can represent clients before the IRS. Florida's no-state-income-tax status focuses work on federal returns, with seasonal peaks offering flexible income opportunities.
What does a Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent do in Florida?
Tax preparers and enrolled agents assist individuals and businesses in preparing and filing federal and state tax returns. Enrolled Agents hold the highest IRS credential for tax professionals and can represent clients before the IRS. Florida's no-state-income-tax status focuses work on federal returns, with seasonal peaks offering flexible income opportunities.
Typical Florida work setting: Tax preparation office; seasonal peaks; some remote.
Florida salary and job outlook
Estimated Florida median pay for Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent is approximately $48,790 per year. Entry-level Florida pay typically starts near $30,130, with experienced workers earning around $91,060.
Florida’s projected growth for this occupation is approximately 15% through the next decade — well above average compared to many other states.
Estimated figures based on publicly reported Florida and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Actual pay varies by employer, metro area, experience, and credentials.
How to become a Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent in Florida
- 1. Choose an accredited Florida programLook for a Florida program that prepares you for the IRS PTIN (all paid preparers); EA (Enrolled Agent) for full representation rights required to work as a Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent. Public technical colleges and state colleges are typically the lowest-cost option; private career schools tend to cost more but may finish faster.
- 2. Complete the trainingMost Florida Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent programs take about 3-12 months (EA exam study). Plan around your work and family schedule — many programs offer day, evening, or hybrid options.
- 3. Pass the Florida licensing examWorking as a Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent in Florida requires a state license issued through IRS (federal - PTIN required for all paid preparers; EA credential via IRS SEE exam). You’ll typically need to pass a national or state exam after completing an approved program.
- 4. Apply for Florida jobsHospitals, clinics, employers, and staffing agencies across Florida hire newly licensed Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agents every month. Use our Florida school directory to find programs with strong job-placement support.
Requirements & Training
- Credential: IRS PTIN (all paid preparers); EA (Enrolled Agent) for full representation rights
- Typical program length: 3-12 months (EA exam study)
- Typical tuition range: $500 - $3,000
- Florida license required: Yes (IRS (federal - PTIN required for all paid preparers; EA credential via IRS SEE exam))
Career Path
- Tax Preparer
- Enrolled Agent
- Tax Manager
- CPA (with further education)
- Tax Attorney
Top Florida Employers
Related Programs to Look For
- Accounting Certificate
- Tax Preparation Certificate
- Accounting AS
Florida Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent FAQs
Do I need a Florida license to work as a Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent?
Yes. Florida requires state licensure for Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agents, administered through IRS (federal - PTIN required for all paid preparers; EA credential via IRS SEE exam). You’ll generally need to graduate from an approved program and pass an exam before you can practice.
How long does it take to become a Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent in Florida?
Most Florida training programs for Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent take about 3-12 months (EA exam study). Part-time, evening, and hybrid schedules can extend that timeline; accelerated programs may shorten it.
How much does Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent training cost in Florida?
Typical Florida programs run about $500 - $3,000. Public technical and state colleges are usually the lowest-cost route. Financial aid, employer reimbursement, and payment plans are widely available.
What is the average salary for a Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent in Florida?
Estimated Florida median pay for Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agents is about $48,790 per year. Entry-level pay is typically lower, and experienced workers in high-demand metros (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville) can earn meaningfully more.
Where can I study to become a Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent in Florida?
Florida has hundreds of public technical colleges, state colleges, and private career schools that offer training relevant to Tax Preparer / Enrolled Agent. Use our Florida school directory to filter by region, cost, and accreditation.
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