Seasonal Tax Preparer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of finance, the importance of seasonal tax preparers cannot be overstated.

As tax season rolls around, the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, optimize, and ensure compliance with our complex tax system surges.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a seasonal tax preparer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of tax preparation,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable seasonal tax preparer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Seasonal Tax Preparer Duties and Responsibilities

Seasonal Tax Preparers assist clients during tax season by preparing and filing their income tax returns, ensuring accuracy and compliance with the tax law.

These professionals have strong analytical skills and a comprehensive understanding of tax codes and regulations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Interviewing clients to gather information about their financial situation and possible tax deductions
• Collecting all necessary tax-related documents
• Calculating taxes owed or overpaid by the client, according to current tax law
• Completing tax returns in a timely and accurate manner
• Advising clients on tax-related issues and how to minimize tax liabilities
• Ensuring all tax forms and documents are filled out correctly and submitted before deadlines
• Maintaining confidentiality of client information
• Staying updated on changes in state and federal tax regulations
• Assisting clients in case of tax audits

 

Seasonal Tax Preparer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and knowledgeable Seasonal Tax Preparer to join our team.

Your responsibilities will include preparing simple and complex, individual and small business State and Federal tax returns.

Our ideal candidate is familiar with tax preparation software and databases, and has a deep understanding of the tax preparation process.

Your goal will be to provide accurate, thorough and timely tax preparation services for our clients.

 

Responsibilities

• Collecting and organizing tax information from clients
• Preparing accurate tax returns ensuring compliance with tax regulations
• Checking data input or verify totals on forms prepared by others to detect errors in arithmetic, data entry, or procedures
• Calculating form preparation fees according to return complexity and processing time required
• Providing tax planning to clients inclusive of estimated tax calculations
• Answering client tax-related questions and provide future tax planning to clients
• Reviewing financial records such as income statements and expenditures to determine forms needed to prepare tax returns
• Ensuring client confidentiality and privacy

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a professional tax preparer, preferably with a strong focus on individual tax returns
• Knowledge of tax software and Microsoft Office
• Strong math and analytical skills
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Ability to work under pressure, in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Detail-oriented and professional
• Enrolled Agent (EA) certification or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is a plus

 

Benefits

• Training and skill development
• Flexible work hours
• Potential for full-time employment

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Seasonal Tax Preparer
• Work Environment: Office setting with potential for remote work. Some weekend and evening hours may be required during tax season.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Tax Manager or Senior Tax Preparer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $15.00 – $25.00 per hour
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Temporary/Seasonal
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Seasonal Tax Preparer Do?

Seasonal Tax Preparers typically work for tax preparation firms, accounting firms, or may operate independently.

Their busiest season is typically from January to April when personal income tax returns are due.

These professionals assist clients in accurately preparing and filing their tax returns.

They gather financial information, including income statements and expense documents, to calculate and complete tax return forms.

Seasonal Tax Preparers are well-versed in tax laws and regulations.

They are able to determine the appropriate deductions and credits that can be claimed by individuals or businesses, to minimize tax liability and increase refunds.

In the case of audits or inquiries by tax agencies, Seasonal Tax Preparers provide support and advice to their clients.

They also assist clients in making future tax plans, taking into account any changes in financial circumstances or tax laws.

Despite their title, Seasonal Tax Preparers often work year-round, helping clients with estimated tax payments, corporate taxes, and other tax-related issues.

Their main goal is to provide a stress-free tax filing experience for their clients.

 

Seasonal Tax Preparer Qualifications and Skills

A competent seasonal tax preparer should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong knowledge of tax laws, procedures, and regulations to effectively prepare and file tax returns.
• Excellent mathematical and computational skills to accurately calculate tax liabilities, deductions, and credits.
• Attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of data entry and detect any numerical errors in the tax forms.
• Proficient with tax preparation software and other related applications to streamline and automate the tax preparation process.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple clients’ tax files simultaneously and meet the tax filing deadlines.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain tax procedures and obligations to clients, and answer any questions they may have.
• Customer service skills to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, providing them with professional and courteous service.
• Problem-solving skills to efficiently identify and rectify any discrepancies or errors in tax forms.

 

Seasonal Tax Preparer Experience Requirements

Seasonal Tax Preparers often have a background in accounting, finance or a related field.

This can be obtained through a university degree, or a diploma from a professional training institution.

Many firms require tax preparers to have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in tax preparation or a closely related field.

This experience can be obtained through internships or entry-level roles in accounting firms, finance departments, or tax consulting firms.

Some preparers also gain experience by offering their services on a freelance basis.

Candidates who have more than 3 years of experience in tax preparation are often proficient in using various tax software and have a thorough understanding of federal and state tax codes.

They are usually capable of handling more complex tax situations, such as those involving businesses or multiple states.

Seasonal tax preparers with more than 5 years of experience may have developed their client management skills and are typically capable of handling multiple client accounts.

These candidates may also be prepared to train or lead a team of less experienced tax preparers.

In some cases, firms may require their tax preparers to have specific certifications, such as the IRS Annual Filing Season Program Record of Completion, or to be a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

These certifications not only demonstrate a preparer’s competence in tax preparation but also their commitment to adhering to ethical standards.

 

Seasonal Tax Preparer Education and Training Requirements

To become a Seasonal Tax Preparer, an individual typically needs at least a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, many employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business, or a related field.

A comprehensive understanding of tax codes, laws, and regulations is essential.

Therefore, tax preparers are usually expected to complete some form of tax preparation training.

This training could be offered through a community college, vocational school, or a tax preparation firm.

Many tax preparers choose to pursue certification to validate their knowledge and skills.

One popular certification is the IRS Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) Record of Completion.

This program is designed for tax preparers who are not attorneys, certified public accountants (CPAs), or enrolled agents (EAs).

To obtain the AFSP Record of Completion, tax preparers must complete an IRS-approved tax law refresher course, pass a test, and fulfill a certain number of continuing education hours each year.

For those looking to further specialize or advance their career, they can consider becoming a CPA or EA.

Both certifications require passing rigorous exams and meeting other education and experience requirements.

Seasonal tax preparers must be highly detail-oriented and have excellent math skills.

They should also be proficient with tax preparation software and other computer programs.

In addition, strong customer service skills are necessary as they often interact with clients to gather information and explain tax situations.

 

Seasonal Tax Preparer Salary Expectations

A Seasonal Tax Preparer can expect to earn an average salary of $15.38 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, certification level, geographical location, and the complexity of the tax returns they are handling.

 

Seasonal Tax Preparer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Seasonal Tax Preparer need?

Seasonal Tax Preparers should have a strong understanding of tax law and be familiar with the most recent updates.

They should have excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Proficiency in tax software programs is also necessary, as is the ability to communicate complex tax information to clients in an understandable way.

 

Do Seasonal Tax Preparers need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, most Seasonal Tax Preparers have at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.

Some positions may require specific certification, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.

 

What should you look for in a Seasonal Tax Preparer resume?

Look for evidence of strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of tax law and tax preparation software.

Relevant education and certification should also be clearly stated.

Prior experience in preparing tax returns, especially for a diverse clientele, is a good indicator of the candidate’s expertise.

 

What qualities make a good Seasonal Tax Preparer?

A good Seasonal Tax Preparer is diligent, meticulous, and trustworthy, as they handle sensitive financial information.

They should be able to work under pressure, particularly during the busy tax season, and have excellent time management skills.

Good communication skills are essential to explain complex tax issues to clients clearly and concisely.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Seasonal Tax Preparer?

Hiring a Seasonal Tax Preparer can be challenging because it requires finding a candidate with specific tax knowledge and skills who is also available for temporary employment during the tax season.

The recruitment process should start well in advance of the tax season to allow for training and acclimatization to the company’s systems and procedures.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we have shed light on what it truly means to be a seasonal tax preparer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about crunching numbers.

It’s about crafting the financial future, one tax return at a time.

With our comprehensive seasonal tax preparer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for creating finely-tuned job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every tax return is a part of the bigger financial picture.

Let’s build that future. Together.

How to Become a Seasonal Tax Preparer (Complete Guide)

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