Q: I need help with my taxes — but who should I actually call?

A: It depends on what you need. Tax preparers, Enrolled Agents and CPAs who specialize in tax can provide many of the same services, but there are important differences in their credentials and areas of expertise.

• Tax preparer: A broad category covering professionals who prepare and file tax returns, including those working for national tax preparation companies. For a relatively straightforward return, an experienced tax preparer may be all you need. Training and credentials can vary, so ask about the preparer’s experience.

• Enrolled Agent (EA): A tax professional federally credentialed by the IRS. EAs specialize in taxation and can prepare returns, provide tax planning and have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS, including in audits, collections and appeals.

• CPA who specializes in tax: A state-licensed accounting professional who can prepare tax returns but may also help with the broader financial picture — including tax planning, business accounting, entity decisions and how financial decisions today could affect taxes later. Remember, not every CPA specializes in tax.

For complex tax litigation or matters requiring legal advice, a tax attorney may be the right professional.

Bottom Line: Don’t choose a tax professional based on the initials after someone’s name alone. Start with what you need, then find someone whose credentials and experience match it.