Ea Exam Part 2

[Burke]

Most of the time when I get new clients who have had CPA's, EA's, or lawyers do their tax returns the previous year, I find the general average is $300 per hour for a lawyer. For a fairly simple return (1040 and state), generally $300 flat rate for a CPA and less for an EA, especially a new one who is trying to build a practice. For business returns, the rate goes up significantly from that. This will vary depending on the area and market you serve. I also passed the EA exam too many years ago to be of any significance today, but at the time I did not study much at all for it. Missed what was then Part 3 - corps, partnerships, etc. by 5 pts, but I had never done any of those returns at that time. Had to wait a whole year to take that part again, as they only gave the (written) exam once a year in the state capital. I know you are glad you don't have to go through that again!

[AJsTax]

will vary a lot

Most of the time when I get new clients who have had CPA's, EA's, or lawyers do their tax returns the previous year, I find the general average is $300 per hour for a lawyer. For a fairly simple return (1040 and state), generally $300 flat rate for a CPA and less for an EA, especially a new one who is trying to build a practice. For business returns, the rate goes up significantly from that. This will vary depending on the area and market you serve.

In the area I live and work the average price is about one half or less of what Burke quoted. the CPA I work for averages about $150 for a 1040 with one or two simple schedule D or C included. Business returns run about $400. Do I think he is low? yes. Will he adjust, probably not because of the competition and financial situation of most of the clients.

so the area you practice in will determine your rates.