Difference between types of return preparers

What is the difference between return preparers?
Non-credentialed preparer
AFSP*
EA†
CPA‡
Education required
None
18 hours
None
5-year degree
Experience required
None
None
None
1800 hours
Continuing education hours required (per year)
None
15
24
40
Testing requirement
None
3 hours/100 questions
10.5 hrs/300 questions
14 hours/107 questions and 8 simulations
Authorized by
None
IRS
IRS
State Board of Accountancy


*AFSP = IRS Annual Filing Season Program – certificate holder
†EA = Enrolled Agent

‡CPA = Colorado Certified Public Accountant

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