CA vs CPA: what the letters mean, and how to choose a tax expert
People often ask whether an Indian Chartered Accountant (CA) is the same as a U.S. CPA, and who they should hire for U.S. taxes. Here is the short, honest answer.
Prepared by Prem Tax and Accounting Corp. Last checked against official sources on October 9, 2026.
The credentials side by side
| U.S. CPA | Indian Chartered Accountant (CA) | Enrolled agent (EA) | Other tax preparer (PTIN only) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who grants it | A U.S. state board of accountancy | Institute of Chartered Accountants of India | The IRS | Nobody: a PTIN is a registration |
| How earned | Education, the Uniform CPA Exam, experience, ethics | Exams and practical training in India | Special Enrollment Examination | None required |
| Represent you before the IRS | Yes, unlimited | Not by itself | Yes, unlimited | Limited to returns they prepared and signed |
| Main strength | U.S. tax, audit and business advice | Accounting, audit and tax in India | U.S. tax and representation | Return preparation |
Why having both can help
Keshav Agrawal is licensed as a CPA in the United States and is a Chartered Accountant from India. For families with India ties, that means someone who can sign and represent you before the IRS, and who understands Indian accounts, statements, property papers and terms like NRE, NRO, PPF, ESOP and TDS.
How to choose a tax expert
- Ask about credentials: CPA, enrolled agent or attorney if you may need representation.
- Ask about experience with your situation: foreign accounts, PFIC funds, foreign gifts, India property.
- Ask who signs and who handles IRS notices.
- Ask for a clear quote in writing before work starts.
- Be careful with anyone who promises a refund or charges based on the size of your refund.
See Keshav's credentials or book a 20-minute call.
Common questions
Is an Indian CA equivalent to a U.S. CPA?
No. They are separate credentials from different regulators. A CA is awarded by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. A CPA is a license from a U.S. state board of accountancy after the Uniform CPA Examination plus education and experience requirements. Neither automatically replaces the other.
Can a CA prepare U.S. tax returns?
Anyone with a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) can be a paid return preparer. But only enrolled agents, CPAs and attorneys have unlimited rights to represent you before the IRS on audits, collections and appeals.
Can an Indian CA become a U.S. CPA?
Possibly. Each state board sets its own education and exam rules, and an Indian CA's education is evaluated case by case. Check the state board's requirements. It is a path many CAs take.
Is a tax consultant the same as a CPA?
No. "Tax consultant" and "tax expert" are job descriptions, not licenses. Ask for the credential: CPA, enrolled agent or attorney.
How do I check my preparer?
Ask for their PTIN, check a CPA's license on the state board website (in Illinois, the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation), and use the IRS directory of preparers with credentials.
Official sources
- IRS: Tax return preparer credentials and qualifications
- IRS Publication 519: U.S. tax guide for aliens
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