Tax Preparer
Job description, Salary, Resume, and Interview Questions
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHAT DOES A Tax Preparer DO?
Tax Preparers play a critical role in helping individuals and businesses accurately prepare and file their tax returns in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. They analyze financial documents, identify deductions and credits, and ensure all filings are completed on time to minimize liabilities and maximize returns.
Successful Tax Preparers possess strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and a comprehensive understanding of tax codes and financial documentation. They are skilled in reviewing complex financial data, identifying compliance issues, and communicating clearly with clients. These professionals are trustworthy, efficient, and committed to delivering accurate, timely tax services while building lasting client relationships.
AVERAGE SALARY FOR
Tax Preparers
Salaries can vary depending on factors such as geographical location, experience, educational background, and industry sector.
$19.29/hour
Tax Preparer Job Descriptions
Below are four types of Tax Preparer job descriptions, detailing the range and expectations of the role:
Job Description:
We are seeking an Individual Tax Preparer to assist clients with the accurate and timely preparation of federal and state income tax returns. The ideal candidate will guide individuals through complex tax situations while ensuring compliance with current tax laws.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare and file individual income tax returns (Form 1040 and related schedules).
- Analyze client financial documents, deductions, and credits.
- Ensure all filings comply with IRS and state tax codes.
- Maintain records of tax returns and related correspondence.
- Provide tax planning advice to minimize liabilities for future years.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- Experience in individual tax preparation preferred.
- Familiarity with tax software (e.g., TurboTax, Drake, or TaxSlayer).
- Knowledge of IRS guidelines and federal/state tax regulations.
- Strong attention to detail and confidentiality.
Job Description:
We are looking for a Corporate Tax Preparer to manage and file business tax returns for corporations. This role involves analyzing complex financial records, identifying tax-saving opportunities, and ensuring adherence to all corporate tax obligations.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare federal and state corporate tax returns (e.g., Form 1120).
- Review financial statements to determine accurate taxable income.
- Calculate quarterly estimated tax payments.
- Stay current with corporate tax laws and regulations.
- Assist with audits and respond to tax authority inquiries.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA preferred.
- Experience in corporate tax preparation and compliance.
- Proficiency in accounting and tax software (e.g., Lacerte, ProSystem fx).
- Strong analytical and organizational skills.
- In-depth knowledge of GAAP and corporate taxation.
Job Description:
We are hiring Freelance/Seasonal Tax Preparers to support clients during tax season. This role offers flexibility and is ideal for experienced tax professionals seeking short-term or part-time work preparing returns for individuals and small businesses.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare a variety of tax returns, including individual, small business, and sole proprietorships.
- Communicate with clients to gather tax documents and resolve questions.
- Ensure timely and accurate filing before deadlines.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of tax codes and seasonal changes.
- Offer basic tax planning support and follow-up services.
Qualifications:
- Prior tax preparation experience required (2+ seasons preferred).
- PTIN registration required; Enrolled Agent status a plus.
- Proficient with tax software (e.g., TaxAct, Liberty Tax, Intuit).
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple returns.
- Strong customer service and communication skills.
Job Description:
We are seeking a Tax Preparer with experience in nonprofit tax reporting to manage tax compliance for charitable organizations. The candidate will ensure proper filing of exempt organization returns and maintain adherence to IRS nonprofit regulations.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, and other required nonprofit filings.
- Review organization finances to confirm tax-exempt eligibility.
- Advise on unrelated business income (UBI) and potential tax liabilities.
- Assist with state charity registrations and renewals.
- Ensure compliance with nonprofit accounting standards and IRS rules.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
- Experience in nonprofit tax preparation and IRS Form 990.
- Familiarity with accounting practices for tax-exempt organizations.
- Understanding of UBI rules and nonprofit compliance requirements.
- Excellent analytical and reporting skills.
Candidate Certifications to Look For
Consider the following certifications and qualifications when evaluating candidates:
This certification demonstrates expertise in federal tax matters, including individual and business tax return preparation, representation before the IRS, and comprehensive knowledge of U.S. tax code and regulations.
This certification demonstrates advanced knowledge in accounting, taxation, auditing, and financial reporting. It qualifies professionals to handle complex tax scenarios and represent clients before the IRS, making it highly respected in the field of tax preparation.
This certification demonstrates a commitment to continuing education and understanding of current tax laws and filing requirements. It is designed by the IRS to recognize the efforts of non-credentialed tax return preparers who aspire to a higher level of professionalism.
HOW TO HIRE A Tax Preparer
Securing a skilled Tax Preparer requires a strategic approach to identifying professionals with a deep understanding of tax regulations, financial documentation, and attention to detail. Here are key strategies to help you hire top talent:
Comprehensive Job Descriptions: Clearly articulate the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for the role to attract candidates who meet the specific needs of your organization.
Tax Preparer Competency Assessments: Evaluate candidates by testing their ability to interpret and apply tax laws, analyze financial documents, prepare accurate tax returns, identify deductions and credits, and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. Assess their proficiency with tax preparation software, attention to detail, and ability to communicate effectively with clients.
Focus on Detail Orientation: During interviews, ask questions designed to gauge candidates’ attention to detail and their approach to minimizing errors in their work.
Highlight Opportunities for Growth: Emphasize any potential for career advancement or skill development within the organization to attract candidates who are looking for long-term opportunities.
Leverage Accounting-Specific Platforms: Post job listings on platforms that specialize in accounting roles, such as those focused on bookkeepers, staff accountants, and financial analysts, to access a broader pool of qualified accounting professionals.
Tax Preparer Interview Questions
How do you ensure accuracy when reviewing financial documents, calculating tax liabilities, and applying current tax codes?
Describe your experience with tax preparation software like TurboTax, Drake, or ProSeries. Which features or tools help you streamline tax filing tasks?
What strategies do you use to manage competing priorities during peak tax season, such as client communication, return preparation, and filing deadlines?
Can you share an example of identifying and resolving a critical error on a tax return that affected a client’s refund or liability?
How do you stay organized when managing multiple clients, tracking documentation, and ensuring compliance with IRS regulations?
Describe a challenging tax preparation project you handled. What was your role, and how did your efforts impact the client’s financial outcome?
How do you ensure compliance with tax laws and protect sensitive client data when preparing and filing returns?
What’s the most complex aspect of tax preparation for different client types (e.g., self-employed, small business owners, investors), and how do you address it?
How do you approach quality assurance in your work, particularly when reviewing returns, applying deductions, and verifying financial accuracy?
What steps do you take to stay informed on new tax laws, software updates, and best practices in tax preparation and financial compliance?
THREE EASY WAYS TO COMPLETE YOUR Accounting TEAM
AcctPositions can assist you in finding the right Tax Preparer for your team. Here are three ways to complete your accounting team:
- Utilize AcctPositions, a specialized accounting staffing agency.
- Post the job on leading accounting job boards.
- Leverage your professional network in the accounting sector. AcctPositions offers access to a network of pre-screened and qualified accounting professionals.
NEED HELP HIRING A Tax Preparer?
Discover how AcctPositions can elevate your hiring process with tailored staffing solutions. Contact us today to experience a partnership that transforms your recruitment strategy and connects you with top-tier talent.
