Why would you want to work for the enemy?
I have successfully used Gleim for several accounting certs. Good product.
Not sure I’d recommend the EA route as a final goal. But it’s a good place to start.
Gleim is easy and cheap. I used it to pass the CPA, CMA, CIA and EA. Best one for the money, especially if you are good at self study. I just used the book.
Out of curiosity, why is the CPA not attainable? Just do it at your own pace and study.
http://www.irs.gov/Tax-Professionals/Enrolled-Agents/Enrolled-Agent-Information
Thought about it back when I was doing taxes. EA is not that hard basically you have to pass an exam the IRS came up with Not sure if just being an EA gives you any edge in the tax business. The most important thing is experience of the tax preparing kind. It is kind of late to get schooled up and in gear for this tax season. H&R Block offers a basic tax preparer course that you pay for and they may hire you for the next tax season, There are other high volume tax preparers out there. The low volume high dollar preparers are CPA’s and Tax attorneys which share with the EA the ability to practice in tax court.
AND, if get real serious about some really BIG money, you might want to look into a CFA licence. REALLY BIG MONEY with a CFA shingle to hang out.
Get your CPA.