Comments on: A Little Help From My Friends: EA Exam Recs?

By: Jonathan

Jonathan — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 21:31:52 +0000

Okay. I passed parts 1 and 3 with no problems on 11/19/09 using ExamMatrix. Now the ultimate challange, Part 2!

By: Jonathan

Jonathan — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 18:29:53 +0000

I am using Exam Matrix also. So far so good. The software helps narrow the questions you see based on your ability to get them correct. Therefore, you spend less time answering/studying with material you already know. The custonmer support is great and as mentioned, there is a pass guarantee…just read the fine print on it.

Good luck!

By: Trish McIntire

Trish McIntire — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:48:25 +0000

I used the Gleim books and CDs when I took the exam.
Besides the test they give you some good tips for taking the test. I don’t know if calculators are still forbidden under the new system. If they are, one suggestion I would make is to study using paper and pencil instead of a calculator for the math.

By: Adam

Adam — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:15:53 +0000

I am in the process of sitting for the exam using ExamMatrix. They give you your money back if you do not pass the exam on the first try. The software even informs you when you are ready to sit for each section.

By: Bill Pegg

Bill Pegg — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 19:49:54 +0000

I took the Enrolled Agent course given by H & R Block.

By: Stefani Whylie

Stefani Whylie — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:49:49 +0000

I studied for the exam using both Gleim and Taxmama.com’s self study course. Like the previous commenter noted, Gleim is good if you’re good with self study and don’t necessarily need a lecture or audio aids. Gleim does have audio courses, but I’m not sure how good they are since I’ve never used them.

Taxmama.com was very helpful. She tries to use her knowledge and experience to help you pass the exam and provide useful information, things that won’t necessarily be found in any textbook. When I took the course, it included a copy of the Gleim tax book, it’s quite possible that her course still comes with the book, in which case you would have the best of both worlds.

By: Liz Sweigart

Liz Sweigart — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:12:24 +0000

My dad used the Gleim books and found them to be very helpful. He is a much better rote learner than I am. If you do well with very straight forward learning and are a “learn by reading” type, Gleim is a great source.

Personally, I used TaxMama.com (self study) which I loved for the convenience and the overall learning. Her course will get you to pass the EA, but additionally really teach you practical aspects of tax as well. She is also warm and funny. As an “audio/visual learner” I benefited from both hearing and seeing the lectures.