Tax Preparers
Tax preparers help individuals and small business owners complete and file their tax returns. They work in accounting firms, tax preparation offices, or independently, organizing financial documents and calculating tax obligations. The role requires attention to detail and understanding of tax codes and regulations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tax preparers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Tax preparers spend their days reviewing client financial records, organizing receipts and income statements, and inputting data into tax software. They identify deductions and credits applicable to each client's situation, then prepare completed tax forms for review. During tax season, the workload intensifies with back-to-back client meetings and tight filing deadlines. Outside peak season, preparers may handle bookkeeping tasks, update their knowledge of changing tax laws, and maintain client files.
Who this work suits
Holland code CEI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you prefer structured tasks with clear procedures and enjoy problem-solving within established systems. You're drawn to positions where precision matters and where helping others organize their finances provides tangible satisfaction.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $57,030 | $71,850 | $101,070 | 7,620 |
| California | $47,420 | $70,030 | $84,890 | 10,270 |
| Utah | $48,210 | $66,720 | $80,550 | 1,190 |
| Montana | $47,470 | $63,080 | $82,850 | 360 |
| Missouri | $35,580 | $62,780 | $98,630 | 1,330 |
| Colorado | $43,380 | $62,620 | $75,260 | 1,540 |
| Alaska | $40,430 | $62,360 | $116,170 | 70 |
| New Hampshire | $43,520 | $61,370 | $80,230 | 420 |
| Oregon | $48,830 | $61,370 | $78,090 | 1,590 |
| Pennsylvania | $39,020 | $61,270 | $81,450 | 2,010 |
| Nevada | $46,630 | $60,000 | $99,500 | 1,410 |
| Minnesota | $44,250 | $59,200 | $76,870 | 1,040 |
All 48 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Accredited Tax Preparer (ATP) — Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation
- Accredited Tax Advisor (ATA) — Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation
- Tax Planning Certification — National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers
- Certified International Tax Analyst (CITA) — American Academy of Financial Management
- Certified Tax Specialist (CTS) — Institute of Business & Finance
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tax preparers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-2082.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.