PTIN vs CPA Tax Preparation Cost 2027 Calculator

PTIN tax preparer 2027: average $150-300 for Form 1040 + Schedule A/B/C. CPA: $300-1,500 for complex returns (multi-state, K-1s, foreign income). Enrolled Agent (EA): $200-600. AI tools (TurboTax/H&R Block): $50-200. Audit defense: EAs cheapest, CPAs most credentialed.

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Credential Tiers

CPA: Certified Public Accountant — state license, financial statements + tax. EA: Enrolled Agent — IRS credential, tax only, can represent IRS. PTIN: Preparer Tax Identification Number — basic registration, no credential.

Audit Defense

CPAs and EAs can represent you in IRS audit (federal). PTIN-only preparers cannot. Tax attorneys handle complex disputes + court.

When to Use Each

Simple W-2: DIY software ($50-200). Schedule C/A: EA ($300-500). Multi-state K-1s: CPA ($800-1,500). International (FBAR, expatriation): CPA + tax attorney.

Source and Disclaimer

NATP 2024 Tax Pro Fee Survey, IRS PTIN database. Costs vary by region — verify with 3 quotes.

Source: NATP 2024 Fee Survey, irs.gov PTIN. Last updated: May 2026.