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Tax Preparer Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Last updated February 23, 2026
Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated February 23, 2026
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Guide helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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8 min read

A tax preparer helps individuals and business owners prepare required tax filings. Duties you may want to include in your tax preparer job description are: filing accurate tax returns, reviewing tax documents and helping clients reduce their tax burden.

In this article, you can identify the duties, responsibilities and background required for your open position to better write your job description.

Tax preparer job duties and responsibilities

Tax preparers consult with clients to determine if they qualify for certain credits or deductions. They typically review W-2 forms, wage transcripts and other documents, such as receipts for deductions, to determine the correct filing status for each client. A tax preparer also prepares local, state and federal returns.

Common duties include:

  • Educating clients on the tax preparation process
  • Collecting relevant financial records, including pay stubs and income statements
  • Inputting data from financial records into tax return software
  • Using applicable federal, state and local tax laws to calculate deductions and the amount owed with each filing
  • Filing tax documents with appropriate agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
  • Building customer relationships to promote and expand the business

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Tax Preparer Job Description Examples

Example 1

Who We Are

We are a growing public accounting firm (top 25 in Virginia, as measured by the number of CPAs on staff) with a great reputation in the business community, diversified practice and a high-tech work environment. We have received the ‘Best Places to Work’ designation from both Virginia Business magazine and Accounting Today and have been named a Top Workplace by the Washington Post. We are an independent alliance member of BDO national accounting firm.

KWC specializes in providing tax, audit, accounting and business advisory services for privately held businesses, individuals, estates, trusts, nonprofit organizations, and employee benefit plans. Our diverse client base includes industries such as professional service firms, government contractors, nonprofits, real estate, construction and specialty contractors, and healthcare providers.


Seasonal tax preparers – We are looking to hire several high-caliber experienced seasonal tax preparers and reviewers for complicated individual and/or business income tax returns. Ideally, these will be recurring annual positions for the right people. We offer competitive pay rates, continuing education/training, free parking, an excellent office environment and a friendly atmosphere. We have office locations in Alexandria and Richmond.

Our seasonal positions are for those who wish to primarily work from February to mid-April, although there may be an opportunity for additional hours outside of tax season. We can accommodate flexible schedules but require at least 20 hours per week during tax season, including some hours in the office. Business tax preparation, including training, begins mid-January. Individual tax preparation, including training, begins mid-February.


Job requirements include the following:

  • 3+ years of public accounting experience preparing individual and/or business income tax returns
  • Experience with CCH Axcess or ProSystems Tax software
  • Experience working in a paperless environment and ability to learn new software packages
  • Must be able to commit to 20 hours per week during tax season, including some hours in the office
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be extremely detail-oriented, thorough and organized
  • Professional image and positive attitude
  • Team player that is receptive to constructive feedback

Job responsibilities include the following:

  • Prepare and/or review individual, partnership and corporate income tax returns
  • Interact directly with clients


Job Type: Part-time
Salary: $50-$70/per hour, depending on experience

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary

Pay: $50.00 - $70.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • Flexible Location: In person

Example 2

This role is for an individual looking to grow and have personal ownership in their career. We are a small, but growing firm. We have the benefits of a large employer, including 401k, profit sharing, and health insurance with the added benefit of being a small firm where life comes first. We work hard so that we can enjoy our life to the fullest. We believe it is not about time in the office, but time spent with those we love, doing what we love. We want you to enjoy your time working. We want you to care about what you do. We want you to care about the clients we serve.

We are not looking for someone that wants a job, to clock-in and clock-out. We are looking for someone that wants a career.

Tax Associate

Magnetic North Tax & Accounting is a fast-growing, Maple Grove, MN-based accounting firm. We are looking for a Tax Associate to join our team and help us grow.

What You ll Do:

The Tax Associate will be responsible for assisting the firm with various tax matters. This includes preparing tax returns for individuals, partnerships, and corporations. The ideal candidate will have experience with tax accounting and be able to work independently.

  • Tax Return Preparation
  • Client outreach for documents
  • QuickBooks Data Input
  • Payroll Processing


Requirements:

  • Bachelor s degree in Accounting or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 1+ years of relevant experience;
  • EA status
  • Quickbooks Experience
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Must be able to work in a team environment.
  • Must be willing to learn new skills and adapt to changes in the industry.
  • Must possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.


Preferred:

  • CPA
  • Drake Software knowledge
  • experience with preparing Trust returns

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Work from home
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
Supplemental pay types:
  • Bonus opportunities



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Maple Grove, MN 55311: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:
  • Quickbooks: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Drake Software: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:
  • CPA (Preferred)
  • Enrolled Agent license Location: Hybrid remote in Maple Grove, MN 55311

Example 3

We're seeking an experienced and attentive Tax Preparer to join our busy practice located in the heart of City of Coral Springs. The Tax Preparer will be assisting clients with their tax returns by gathering information, calculating taxes and verifying that the returns are accurate. The ideal candidate for this position has a background in tax preparation, is punctual and detail-oriented and enjoys interacting with people. MUST SPEAK Portuguese!

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare tax returns for various income groups, such as businesses and individuals.
  • Be able to deal with multiple clients at once.
  • Be able to communicate with clients in person, by phone or in writing.
  • Research tax laws and precedents.
  • Make judgments about whether clients needs are being met and whether additional service is necessary.(From the 2012 U.S. Department of Labor's ONET OnLine database).

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35,841.00 - $41,560.00 per year

Supplemental pay types:
  • Bonus pay



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Coral Springs, FL 33065: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:
  • Bookkeeping: 5 years Location: One location

Example 4

About us

We are professional, agile and our goal is to hire a tax preparer to join our team. We are looking for a tax preparer to join us that is looking for an hourly position. This preparer will specifically do walk in clients as well as assigned clients along side management.

Our work environment includes:

  • Modern office setting
  • Food provided
  • Growth opportunities
  • Work-from-home days

Responsibilities:
- Analyze financial information and prepare accurate tax returns for individuals and businesses
- Provide exceptional customer service by answering client questions and addressing concerns
- Utilize 10-key typing skills to efficiently input data into tax software
- Apply technical accounting knowledge to ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations
- Stay up-to-date with changes in the tax market and new tax laws
- Assist with sales and marketing efforts to attract new clients
- Perform general office duties, such as filing, organizing documents, and maintaining client records

Experience:
- Previous experience as a tax preparer or in a related role is preferred
- Strong knowledge of corporate accounting principles and practices
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data entry
- Ability to provide excellent customer service and handle client inquiries effectively
- Proficient in using tax software and other accounting tools

Please note that this job description is not exhaustive and additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract

Pay: $13.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
  • Work from home
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekends as needed
Supplemental pay types:
  • Bonus opportunities
  • Commission pay



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Pontiac, MI 48342: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Application Question(s):
  • Are you a team player?
  • What tactics do you use to calm upset customers?

License/Certification:
  • PTIN Location: Hybrid remote in Pontiac, MI 48342

Example 5

We are now enrolling for our online tax preparer classes.

Are you a tax preparer who wants to make more money and wants a hybrid position? YOU WILL BE Responsible FOR Gaining YOUR OWN Clients!

*Minimum Experience Needed *

Job Summary

The name of our company is Tru Tax Accounting Solutions. Our headquarters is based out of Atlanta, GA. We have 15 years of experience in the tax business. We are currently hiring mobile tax preparers for immediate fill. For the mobile tax preparation position you'll be responsible for preparing individual Tax returns for taxpayers. You'll work for yourself as a partner under our company however you'll be able to prepare your clients' taxes around your own schedule. We have several locations available where you can also work. You are also able to work from home. You are required to have a laptop and access to Wi-Fi. "Must be able to apply for PTIN (Preparers Tax Identification Number)and/or renew. To learn more about us visit [website]

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Interview clients to obtain additional information on taxable income and deductible expenses and allowances.
  • Use all appropriate adjustments, deductions, and credits to keep clients' taxes to a minimum.
  • Prepare or assist in preparing simple to complex tax returns for individuals or small businesses.
  • Compute taxes owed or overpaid, using adding machines or personal computers, and complete entries on forms, following tax form instructions and tax tables
  • Furnish taxpayers with sufficient information and advice to ensure correct tax form completion.
  • Check data input or verify totals on forms prepared by others to detect errors in arithmetic, data entry, or procedures.
  • Consult tax law handbooks or bulletins to determine procedures for preparation of atypical returns.
  • Calculate form preparation fees according to return complexity and processing time required.
  • Answer questions and provide future tax planning to clients.
  • Review financial records such as income statements and documentation of expenditures to determine forms needed to prepare tax returns.
  • Explain federal and state tax laws to individuals and companies.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract, Temporary

Pay: $1,000.00 - $4,000.00 per week

Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
  • Work from home
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekends as needed
Supplemental pay types:
  • Commission pay

COVID-19 considerations:
To keep clients and staff safe as possible we provide temperature check as well as keeping facility cleaned and sanitized. Masks & gloves are always available.



Education:
  • High school or equivalent Location: Hybrid remote in Douglasville, GA 30134

Example 6

York & Associates, LLC is a tax and financial firm with a focus on providing high-quality services. We are looking for a professional, self-motivated, and experienced Tax Preparer/Staff Accountant to join our growing team. Ideally this individual should have worked in a private accounting and tax practice for the last 1-3 years. Our Company Values are: Integrity | Accuracy | Strategy | Innovation| Client-Centered Focus Starting Salary is $61k - $67k, depends on experience. Full-time positions available. Pay will depend on if hired for Part time, Full time, or seasonal position. Schedule: Monday-Friday (plus Saturdays February April 15 and December). Individual will need to be flexible to work from office and/or home depending on employer needs. Job Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Taxation, Finance or Business; Master's in any of the previously mentioned fields is a bonus
  • EA or CPA preferred or must be willing to work towards obtaining EA or CPA status
  • 1-3 years of experience preparing taxes at an EA or CPA firm
  • 1-3 years of experience preparing individual (1040) federal and state tax returns o Must be able to prepare personal returns with Schedule A, B, C, D, E and F and other various schedules as well as any required work papers or calculations
  • 1-3 years of experience preparing business and estate (1120, 1120S, 1065, 1041) tax returns o Must be able to prepare Corporate, S-Corp, Partnership and Estate tax returns and all schedules of varying complexities and should be knowledgeable about the software used in tax preparation
  • Must be able to effectively organize, prioritize and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines throughout each day to assist in meeting all clients' needs
  • Strong analytical, organizational, written, and verbal communications skills
  • Should have a good understanding of depreciation and fixed asset allocations, allowable business deductions and allocations, interest allocations, basis requirements, amended return preparations, NOL allocations, estimated tax projections and calculations, preparation of state returns, and the current tax law
  • Should be proficient in payroll, payroll taxes, accounts payable and accounts receivable
  • Should have an understanding of the process of compiling the balance sheet, profit and loss, general ledger, general journals, etc.
  • Should have knowledge of payroll and payroll related reporting requirements, sales and sales tax reporting and year end reporting requirements
  • Must be proficient in using Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Microsoft Excel and Word
  • Experience with Lacerte/ProConnect/Intuit Tax Software is preferred
  • Experience with QuickBooks Software is preferred Job Responsibilities - Based on experience level you may perform all or some of the responsibilities below:
  • Preparers are responsible for completing necessary financial statements, and must be able to read and understand accounting reports and financial statements to prepare tax returns
  • Preparer should have exceptional attention to detail to preform data entry requirements for Senior Tax Professionals
  • Preparers should contribute to the client service team by producing quality work, quick turnaround, and attentive service, including client follow-up
  • Preparers should have the ability to interact with ease with the clients as well as other staff. Verbal & written communication skills are essential
  • Communicating with clients across the country via telephone regarding tax matters
  • Communicating with IRS and other tax authorities as an advocate on behalf of clients
  • Helping clients clean up bookkeeping records to complete business tax returns and/or provide year- round accounting services
  • Preparation of individual income tax returns
  • Preparation of business income tax returns, information returns, and other compliance returns
  • Review of individual income tax returns and business income tax returns
  • All other duties that may be assigned from time-to-time by Company management Benefits:Benefits will depend on if hired for Part time, Full time, or seasonal position. Waiting period may apply. A background check and social media/internet search are required for employment. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $61,500.00 - $67,748.00 per year Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Work from home Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekend availability COVID-19 considerations: All client appointments are handled virtually or by phone, clients and staff are required to wear a mask in the office, and regular sanitization of common areas occurs multiple times per day. License/Certification:
  • EA or CPA Location: One location

Example 7

Full description National Financial Planning Group is looking for an experienced tax preparer to join our team in the Atlanta, Georgia area. You will own the preparation of simple and complex, individual and small business Federal and State tax returns. This is a full-time, permanent position. You will play an important role in promoting our services and expertise to prospects and clients. Qualifications Prior individual and business tax preparation experience in a tax practice or retail setting required Knowledge of tax laws, tax concepts and familiarity with form 1040 and schedules Ability/motivation to expand expertise and obtain a tax credential or certification Strong customer service skills with ability to empathize and instill confidence In-depth knowledge of applicable tax laws, regulations and deadlines Proficiency with common tax preparation, word processing and spreadsheet software applications Great organizational skills, including time management and strategic thinking Strong written and verbal communication skills and keen attention to detail Job Type: Full-time Benefits:
  • Health insurance Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday Supplemental Pay:
  • Bonus pay Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Atlanta, GA 30354: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work Location: One location

Example 8

York & Associates, LLC is a tax and financial firm with a focus on providing high-quality services. We are looking for a professional, self-motivated, and experienced Tax Preparer/Staff Accountant to join our growing team. Ideally this individual should have worked in a private accounting and tax practice for the last 1-3 years. Our Company Values are: Integrity | Accuracy | Strategy | Innovation| Client-Centered Focus Starting Salary is $61k - $67k, depends on experience. Full-time positions available. Pay will depend on if hired for Part time, Full time, or seasonal position. Schedule: Monday-Friday (plus Saturdays February April 15 and December). Individual will need to be flexible to work from office and/or home depending on employer needs. Job Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Taxation, Finance or Business; Master's in any of the previously mentioned fields is a bonus
  • EA or CPA preferred or must be willing to work towards obtaining EA or CPA status
  • 1-3 years of experience preparing taxes at an EA or CPA firm
  • 1-3 years of experience preparing individual (1040) federal and state tax returns o Must be able to prepare personal returns with Schedule A, B, C, D, E and F and other various schedules as well as any required work papers or calculations
  • 1-3 years of experience preparing business and estate (1120, 1120S, 1065, 1041) tax returns o Must be able to prepare Corporate, S-Corp, Partnership and Estate tax returns and all schedules of varying complexities and should be knowledgeable about the software used in tax preparation
  • Must be able to effectively organize, prioritize and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines throughout each day to assist in meeting all clients' needs
  • Strong analytical, organizational, written, and verbal communications skills
  • Should have a good understanding of depreciation and fixed asset allocations, allowable business deductions and allocations, interest allocations, basis requirements, amended return preparations, NOL allocations, estimated tax projections and calculations, preparation of state returns, and the current tax law
  • Should be proficient in payroll, payroll taxes, accounts payable and accounts receivable
  • Should have an understanding of the process of compiling the balance sheet, profit and loss, general ledger, general journals, etc.
  • Should have knowledge of payroll and payroll related reporting requirements, sales and sales tax reporting and year end reporting requirements
  • Must be proficient in using Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Microsoft Excel and Word
  • Experience with Lacerte/ProConnect/Intuit Tax Software is preferred
  • Experience with QuickBooks Software is preferred Job Responsibilities - Based on experience level you may perform all or some of the responsibilities below:
  • Preparers are responsible for completing necessary financial statements, and must be able to read and understand accounting reports and financial statements to prepare tax returns
  • Preparer should have exceptional attention to detail to preform data entry requirements for Senior Tax Professionals
  • Preparers should contribute to the client service team by producing quality work, quick turnaround, and attentive service, including client follow-up
  • Preparers should have the ability to interact with ease with the clients as well as other staff. Verbal & written communication skills are essential
  • Communicating with clients across the country via telephone regarding tax matters
  • Communicating with IRS and other tax authorities as an advocate on behalf of clients
  • Helping clients clean up bookkeeping records to complete business tax returns and/or provide year- round accounting services
  • Preparation of individual income tax returns
  • Preparation of business income tax returns, information returns, and other compliance returns
  • Review of individual income tax returns and business income tax returns
  • All other duties that may be assigned from time-to-time by Company management Benefits:Benefits will depend on if hired for Part time, Full time, or seasonal position. Waiting period may apply. A background check and social media/internet search are required for employment. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $61,500.00 - $67,748.00 per year Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Work from home Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekend availability COVID-19 considerations: All client appointments are handled virtually or by phone, clients and staff are required to wear a mask in the office, and regular sanitization of common areas occurs multiple times per day. License/Certification:
  • EA or CPA Location: One location
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Guide helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines
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What does a tax preparer do?

Tax preparers typically communicate regularly with clients, helping employers increase customer satisfaction. They may also suggest potential deductions, such as transportation costs or technology repairs for remote workers. They aim to file error-free returns, which can help clients accurately anticipate their tax return amount.

A tax preparer with specialized knowledge may also help a firm expand its service offerings. For example, a tax preparer with prior bookkeeping experience might work with business owners who need help with quarterly payroll filings.

Tax preparer skills and qualifications

Strong candidates often demonstrate technical abilities, attention to detail and basic math skills, which may be important for success in this role. Financial analysis and tax knowledge are also valuable competencies that set top candidates apart.

Skills commonly listed in tax preparer job descriptions include:

  • In-depth knowledge of applicable tax laws, regulations and deadlines
  • Proficiency with common tax preparation, word processing and spreadsheet software applications
  • Familiarity with the tax return submission and confirmation process, including filing and extension dates
  • Excellent active listening and customer service skills
  • Exceptional organizational skills, including time management and strategic thinking

Tax preparer experience requirements

If you use skills-first hiring, consider searching for candidates who demonstrate soft skills like customer service abilities, patience and math skills to perform accurate calculations.

You might emphasize these transferable skills in your tax preparer job descriptions. For example, a candidate may have relevant experience from working as a bookkeeper or a payroll specialist.

Tax preparer education and training requirements

Tax preparers don’t typically require formal education, making the position well-suited for skills-first hiring. You may prioritize practical skills, such as calculating amounts owed and applying appropriate deductions, over formal degrees and certifications. However, tax preparers typically need Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs) to prepare returns for a fee.

If you want a tax preparer who can represent clients at IRS hearings, you may search for candidates with the Enrolled Agent (EA) credential. The IRS allows enrolled agents to represent clients during audits, appeals and other agency matters.

Tax preparer salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a tax preparer in the United States is $40,060 per year. Salary may vary according to location, candidate experience and employer size.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this tax preparer job description doesn’t align with your needs, check out these other sample job descriptions for similar positions:

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Tax preparer job description FAQs

Three individuals are sitting at a table with a laptop, a disposable coffee cup, notebooks, and a phone visible. Two are facing each other, while the third’s back is to the camera. The setting appears to be a bright room with large windows.

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