However, the vast majority of tax preparers filing individual returns work from mid-January to the April 15 filing deadline, as this is when most of the tax work is done. Answers will vary with each individual tax preparer, but rest assured that tax preparers can and do earn a living throughout the year. Most do some kind of work outside of tax season, and many diversify their income by offering services other than tax preparation. Whether you're just starting out or you're a veteran tax professional, here are eight ways tax preparers can earn money all year long.
Many seasonal tax workers have other jobs they do throughout the year. For them, tax preparation work adds a second shift during tax season, so their total workday can last 12-14 hours. Despite the long hours, tax preparers are retail employees, so you'll have to be tolerant and able to deal with many different personalities. Tax preparers work directly with the public and should be comfortable serving clients in a variety of settings.
Tax preparers often help clients understand their financial situation and create annual budget plans, which can help streamline the process of filing tax returns. Tax preparers usually complete work individually, but may sometimes work with other auditors and accountants in teams. Most tax preparers use tax preparation software and online resources, but some rely solely on their own computer knowledge and skills. Tax preparers often have excellent active listening skills, as they must give clients complete and undivided attention to understand critical financial points.
Ninety percent of them have taken the company's online income tax course, says Kathy Burlison, former tax implementation director at H&R Block. If you're starting to pursue a career as a tax professional, you may only be familiar with a portion of what tax preparers do, filing returns for individuals at tax season, leaving you with questions about how tax professionals make a living the rest of the year. To prepare tax forms, these professionals review financial information and records, including account statements and business expense documents. While tax preparers work primarily during tax season and at the end of budget quarters, they can also review clients' budgets and financial situation to make sure they are prepared to file their tax returns.
Tax preparers review documentation, including receipts and expense reports, to develop an accurate understanding of the client's finances. Tax preparers review each customer's receipts and payment stubs, along with any other documentation important to the customer's financial situation. Service bureaus resell trusted tax software with your own company logo, increasing the credibility of your brand and diversifying your revenue streams. These professionals prepare complex and simple tax returns for small businesses and individual customers.
However, if you are passionate about helping people grow and manage their money, financial planning can be an ideal complementary career for professional tax preparation. Other industries for tax preparation professionals include government, finance and insurance, and company and business administration. .
