Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered answers to the most common questions from employers, career seekers, and schools.
- Taxley & the Enrolled Agent Profession
- ApprentEA for Employers
- ApprentEA for Career Seekers
- LaunchEA
- Logistics & Participation
An Enrolled Agent (EA) is a federally licensed professional who specializes in U.S. tax law. It is the highest credential the federal government awards in taxation, earned by demonstrating advanced knowledge of tax law and maintained through ongoing education.
EAs have unlimited practice rights before the IRS, representing both individuals and businesses in audits, appeals, and collections. Beyond compliance, they help clients structure businesses, plan finances, and make strategic decisions — uniquely through the lens of tax law. Some EAs have also earned the privilege to practice in U.S. Tax Court.
For more than a century, the Enrolled Agent career path had no structure. Taxley changed that — creating the first registered apprenticeship and career-exploration programs to give professionals and firms a clear, proven pathway forward.
No. The IRS does not require a degree. To earn the EA credential, you must pass the three-part Special Enrollment Exam (SEE).
Registered apprenticeships are approved by the U.S. Department of Labor. They follow strict national and state standards for education, job training, reporting, and outcomes — giving employers and apprentices a structured, credible pathway.
Internships are typically short-term and unstructured. ApprentEA is a registered apprenticeship — blending paid, on-the-job training with structured instruction and mentorship throughout the two year program, leading to practice-ready professionals.
Employers follow a simple three-step process:
- Attend an Information Session — Learn program details and requirements.
- Complete an Employer Evaluation — Confirm fit and register your firm.
- Submit an Intent to Enroll — Select employees for the next cohort. Employees then complete a brief application and interview before officially starting the program.
As with all registered apprenticeships, ApprentEA employers cover the cost of training and program tuition while apprentices receive wages for their on-the-job experience. There is no tuition charged to apprentices.
ApprentEA is a two-year program with 288 hours of career-focused education, provided by Taxley, and 4,000 hours of on-the-job training, supported by mentorship throughout. Instruction is provided online and does not require the apprentice to miss work.
Graduates are not just tax staff — they’re Enrolled Agents trained in tax law, business advisory, financial management, and client relationship management.
They are equipped to advise clients, solve problems, and strengthen firms with practice-ready expertise across finance, business, and taxation.
Apprenticeships build loyalty because employees see a clear pathway for advancement while gaining skills that make them more valuable to the firm.
Employers still retain the value of 1–2 years of skilled, supervised work, and Taxley continues to handle all required reporting and compliance.
ApprentEA apprentices graduate with skills in tax law & compliance, business advisory, personal financial management, and client relationship management. They are trained to operate as trusted advisors — not just tax preparers — able to guide families and businesses in multiple areas of finance, business, and tax law.
Graduates are positioned for roles in tax law, business consulting, financial advisory, and taxpayer advocacy across firms, corporations, and government agencies. In addition to having earned their Enrolled Agent license, graduates earn a degree equivalent apprenticeship certificate, from the US Dept. of Labor, that is recognized by companies nationwide.
LaunchEA is our exploratory career-readiness and resource program. It is designed to introduce aspiring professionals to the Enrolled Agent career path and includes access to EA exam prep resources, monthly Q&A sessions, and our employer partners.
LaunchEA is designed for ambitious high school juniors and seniors (16+), young adults, career changers, and employees exploring the EA career path.
All related instruction is delivered 100% online for accessibility and flexibility. On-the-job training happens at the apprentice’s place of employment.
Cohorts begin in May and September each year. During the respective registration seasons, apprentices apply through their employer and are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis if eligibility is met.
We are actively working with colleges and universities on transfer credit agreements. Updates will be shared as partnerships are finalized.
Taxley serves as the official program sponsor — managing compliance with the Department of Labor, providing structured education, mentorship, and supporting both apprentices and employers throughout the two years.
Still have questions? Join an info session to hear directly from Taxley and get your answers live.