Description:
Prepare tax returns for individuals or small businesses but do not have the background or responsibilities of an accredited or certified public accountant.
Duties:
• Figure taxes, using adding machines or a computer.
• Fill out tax forms.
• Talk to clients to make sure they have reported all information.
• Review all forms before sending them and check for math mistakes.
• Read tax books and rules information to be sure the forms are being filled out correctly.
• Decide how much time was spent on filling out the forms so the client knows what the fee will be.
Where and When:
• Most tax preparers work for a tax preparation company or a certified public accountant.
• It can be part-time work, working only during tax season (Jan-April)
• It is an office job, with spending most of the time sitting at a desk and on a computer.
What or Who They Work With:
• Adding machines
• Computers
• Tax software for computers
• Files and reference books
Education and Training:
• A high school diploma or GED is required
• Some firms require an Associate's degree
• Many accountants start by working as a tax preparer while in school
Similar Jobs:
- Actuary
- Insurance claims clerk
- Insurance appraiser
Related School Subjects:
• Math
• Computers
• Writing
• Reading
Print:
Learn and Color: Finance
Count Me Out
How Many? Adding
Read:
SAVE, SPEND, OR DONATE? A BOOK ABOUT MANAGING MONEY by Nancy Loewen
THE BERENSTAIN BEARS' TROUBLE WITH MONEY by Stan Berenstain
Explore:
Counting Cents
U.S. Treasury Kids "Save Perry's Pennies"
Sources:
Virginia Career VIEW Career Search
Bureau of Labor Statistics
