The Bottom Line
The Gleim EA Review can be a cost-effective study tool for self-motivated learners. For 2006, I highly recommend that you purchase the online or software study aids since the new EA Exam will be a computerized test. You will need the practice of answering questions on a computer screen and practice in pacing yourself through the test.
Pros
- Comprehensive
- Includes books (for studying) and software (for taking practice tests)
- The software will be an essential study tool for 2006, since the EA Exam will now be computerized.
- Money-back guarantee for the online test prep service if you don't pass the EA Exam.
- The online study materials contains the same great tax outlines as the books.
Cons
- Demands a lot of study time
- Gleim will re-format their study materials by late August, but you'll want to get a head start now.
- Changes to the exam means there may be new questions on the test not yet covered by Gleim.
Description
- 4-Volumes covering all aspects of federal taxation. Will be re-formatted into a 3-volume set.
- Software provides sample test questions and explanations of why an answer is wrong.
- The software tracks your progress, letting you focus on areas where you need more improvement.
- Volume 1 covers personal income taxes (Form 1040).
- Volume 2 covers partnerships (Form 1065) and sole proprietors (Schedule C).
- Volume 3 covers corporations and other entities (Forms 1120, 1120S, 1041, and 706).
- Volume 4 covers ethics, record-keeping, nonprofits, retirement plans, and other tax topics.
- Gleim EA Review Software can be downloaded after placing your order.
- Reach Gleim customer service and support by emailing Clarence Dean, clarence.dean@gleim.com.
- You can also call Mr. Dean at 1-800-874-5346 extension 246.
Guide Review - Gleim EA Review
The Gleim EA Review is a sufficient stand-alone study system that does not require additional publications and reference material. However, the Gleim books can and should be supplemented with an in-person class or even an informal study group among friends. That way you get the best of self-paced study along with friendly support and interaction.
The new EA exam will be a 3-part test. The Gleim study materials are currently structured around the old 4-part test. Gleim plans to reformat their materials into a 3-part format and add content to cover new exam topics.
Gleim offers a money-back guarantee only for their new online test preparation service called. The company does not offer a money-back guarantee on their books and CD-ROM materials.
Product Versions:
- EA Gleim Online self-study materials containing study questions, outlines covering essential tax knowledge, and multiple-choice quizzes.
- EA Review Books feature succint and comprehensive outlines covering the tax information you need to know. Personally, I found the books to be the most helpful in preparing for the EA Exam.
- EA Test Prep Software on CD-ROM contains EA Exam questions from previous tests, along with more tax information when you get a question wrong. I did not find the CD-ROMs particularly helpful for me personally, but taking practing tests via CD-ROM or online will be important for this year's computerized EA Exam.
- EA Review Set bundles together the books, CD-ROM and online test prep materials.
