We compared 5 online tax preparer programs available to US learners. 5 of them have a full editorial score so far, built from five published criteria. Published prices range from $29.99 to $997.
Ordered by our editorial score, never by commission. Filters only hide programs; they don't change the order.
Enrolled Agent candidates who want adaptive, data-driven exam prep with videos and textbooks at a mid-range price.
Tax preparers preparing for the IRS Enrolled Agent exam who want adaptive, AI-personalized study plans.
Tax preparers and EAs who need IRS or CTEC continuing education, AFSP hours or a beginner course at low per-course prices.
Tax preparers who need IRS-approved CE hours, the AFTR course or AFSP credit online.
Complete beginners who want a guided, affordable path to preparing individual returns and starting a seasonal tax side business.
Swipe sideways to see every column →
| Program | Score | Price | Duration | Format | Accreditation | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.8 | $499 – $699 | Self-paced; unlimited course access until you pass; Surgent cites 61 average study hours for all three parts | Self-paced | — | — | |
| 8.7 | $299 – $699 | — | Self-paced | — | Free trial offered (sign-up on the Surgent site). | |
| 8.7 | $29.99 – $79.99 | Self-paced online courses; live webinars also available | Self-paced | IRS Approved CE Provider; CTEC approved (California) | — | |
| 8.4 | — | Online self-study; AFSP requires 18 CE hours per year, including the 6-hour AFTR course | Self-paced | IRS Approved Continuing Education Provider; CTEC courses for California preparers | — | |
| 8.3 | $297 – $997 | Self-paced online: 10 modules, 40+ video lessons, 20+ practice exercises | Self-paced | None; the site notes completion does not constitute IRS endorsement, licensing or professional certification | Free webinar |
“—” means the information was not published or not yet checked. Data from official program pages, last checked October 5, 2026.
Based on our editorial score, Surgent (EA Exam Review) (Surgent EA Review Premier Pass) ranks first at 8.8/10. Best for: Enrolled Agent candidates who want adaptive, data-driven exam prep with videos and textbooks at a mid-range price.
Among the programs we checked that publish a price, prices run from $29.99 to $997. Prices change often, so check the official site before you enroll.
We rank programs by an editorial score built from five criteria (curriculum, credibility, value, flexibility and support). Affiliate commissions never influence the order. Programs we have not scored yet are listed after scored ones.