Tax Preparers
Human Advantage 68%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Moderate Risk
3.3 / 10
Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
Prepare tax returns for individuals or small businesses.
Also Known As: Certified Income Tax Preparer (CTP), Corporate Tax Preparer, Credentialed Tax Expert, Credentialed Tax Professional, Enrolled Agent, Enrolled Agent Tax Consultant, Income Tax Advisor, Income Tax Consultant +13 more
Core Tasks
- Use all appropriate adjustments, deductions, and credits to keep clients' taxes to a minimum.
- Compute taxes owed or overpaid, using adding machines or personal computers, and complete entries on forms, following tax form instructions and tax tables.
- Interview clients to obtain additional information on taxable income and deductible expenses and allowances.
- Review financial records, such as income statements and documentation of expenditures to determine forms needed to prepare tax returns.
- Prepare or assist in preparing simple to complex tax returns for individuals or small businesses.
- Check data input or verify totals on forms prepared by others to detect errors in arithmetic, data entry, or procedures.
- Furnish taxpayers with sufficient information and advice to ensure correct tax form completion.
- Consult tax law handbooks or bulletins to determine procedures for preparation of atypical returns.
- Explain federal and state tax laws to individuals and companies.
- Answer questions and provide future tax planning to clients.
- Calculate form preparation fees according to return complexity and processing time required.
- Schedule appointments with clients.
Education & Training
Job Zone 3 Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (42)
Tools & Equipment (3)
Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
Financial Strategy & Investments Advanced Manufacturing
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