Choosing the Right Tax Professional for Your NIL Journey

As a student-athlete, your Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings are more than just extra money — they’re the beginning of your financial future. Managing that income the right way means surrounding yourself with the right professionals. At NILFinancialAdvisorDirectory.com, we connect you with trusted experts who understand the unique challenges athletes face.

When it comes to taxes and compliance, there are three primary professionals to consider: Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), Enrolled Agents (EAs), and Tax Attorneys. Each brings different strengths, and the best choice depends on your situation.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

What They Do
CPAs are licensed accounting professionals who can help with detailed tax filings, financial reporting, and ongoing tax planning strategies.

Best Fit For:

• Athletes with multiple or complex NIL income sources

• Those needing year-round advice and proactive planning

• Student-athletes balancing taxes with long-term wealth building

Why Choose a CPA?

• Rigorous training and certification

• Expertise beyond taxes — budgeting, investing, and financial planning

• Great for athletes with fast-growing NIL opportunities

Enrolled Agent (EA)

What They Do
EAs are federally licensed tax experts who focus only on taxation. They’re authorized to represent you directly with the IRS.

Best Fit For:

• Athletes with straightforward NIL income who still want expert guidance

• Those needing IRS support or representation in an audit

• Families looking for affordable, tax-focused help

Why Choose an EA?

• Specialization in federal tax law

• Lower cost than most CPAs or attorneys

• Strong choice for routine filings and IRS communication

Tax Attorney

What They Do
Tax attorneys are lawyers who specialize in tax law. They’re essential for athletes with high-value contracts, legal disputes, or complex compliance issues.

Best Fit For:

• Athletes signing large or complicated NIL contracts

• Those facing potential disputes or IRS penalties

• Athletes needing legal contract review and tax planning

Why Choose a Tax Attorney?

• Advanced legal expertise in tax and contracts

• Ability to handle disputes and litigation

• Crucial for protecting large NIL earnings and legal rights

How to Decide

Ask yourself:

• How complex are my NIL earnings right now?

• Am I juggling multi-state or international income?

• Do I need help with contracts, or just filing taxes?

• Do I want ongoing planning or just once-a-year services?

The Bottom Line

Every NIL journey is different. Some athletes thrive with the full-service approach of a CPA, others prefer the tax-focused expertise of an EA, and those with high-value contracts often need the legal protection of a Tax Attorney.

At NILFinancialAdvisorDirectory.com, our mission is simple: to give you the tools, comparisons, and trusted professionals you need to make smart financial decisions. The right advisor not only keeps you compliant today but sets you up for lasting success long after your playing days are over.