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Certified Income Tax Preparer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Mead, Coley and Company CPAs

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Tax Preparer / Staff Accountant

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Review your prepared income tax returns for accuracy, completeness, and compliance before submitting to CPA for final review * Respond to tax notices and communicate with clients professionally

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Brea, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Rialto, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Colton, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Chino, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Redlands, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Corona, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Upland, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Beaumont, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Perris, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Highland, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

Jackson Hewitt COO

Experienced Tax Preparer

Hemet, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Plus, start earning extra income and learning a recession-proof life skill now. PTIN Certification ... Tax Preparer Applicants: I understand, as a condition of employment, I must be able to obtain a ...

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All JobsCertified Income Tax Preparer JobsCertified Income Tax Preparer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Certified Income Tax Preparer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$18

$37

How much do certified income tax preparer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified income tax preparer in Riverside, CA is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified income tax preparer?

A Certified Income Tax Preparer is a professional who has received specialized training and certification to prepare and file individual and business income tax returns. They are knowledgeable in tax laws, regulations, and filing procedures, ensuring that clients remain compliant and maximize eligible deductions. Certified preparers may hold credentials such as the IRS Annual Filing Season Program Record of Completion, Enrolled Agent (EA), or certifications from recognized tax education organizations. Their expertise helps clients avoid costly mistakes and potential audits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified income tax preparer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Income Tax Preparer, you need a solid understanding of tax laws, regulations, and accounting principles, typically supported by completion of a tax preparation course and IRS certification such as the Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) or Enrolled Agent (EA) status. Familiarity with tax preparation software like TurboTax, Drake, or ProSeries, as well as secure document management systems, is essential. Attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and clear communication with clients are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate tax filings, compliance with regulations, and high-quality client service, which are critical to success in tax preparation.

What are some common challenges a certified income tax preparer may face during tax season, and how can they be managed?

Certified Income Tax Preparers often experience a significant increase in workload during tax season, with tight deadlines and a diverse range of client situations. Managing multiple clients simultaneously while staying updated on the latest tax laws and regulations can be challenging. Effective time management, attention to detail, and clear communication with clients are crucial for meeting deadlines and minimizing errors. Many preparers find success by using tax preparation software, maintaining organized records, and proactively educating clients about required documentation. Collaborating with colleagues for complex cases can also help ensure accuracy and compliance.

What is the difference between Certified Income Tax Preparer vs Enrolled Agent?

FeatureCertified Income Tax PreparerEnrolled Agent
CredentialsNone required; optional certificationMust pass IRS exams and be licensed
Work EnvironmentTax preparation firms, freelance, retail storesIRS-authorized, often work independently or in firms
Industry UsageCommon for basic tax prep servicesSpecialized, authorized to represent clients before IRS

The main difference is that Certified Income Tax Preparers typically do not require formal licensing and focus on preparing taxes, while Enrolled Agents are licensed by the IRS, can represent clients in audits, and have a higher level of credentialing. Enrolled Agents often handle more complex cases and have broader authority in tax matters.

Are Certified Income Tax Preparers still in demand?

Certified Income Tax Preparers are still in demand, especially during tax season, as individuals and small businesses seek professional assistance with tax filing. The demand is influenced by changes in tax laws, economic conditions, and the availability of online tax software, but certified preparers often find steady work due to their expertise and certification requirements.

How long does it take to be a certified income tax preparer?

Becoming a certified income tax preparer typically involves completing a training course that can range from a few hours to several days, depending on the program. Additionally, preparers must pass a competency exam and obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) from the IRS, which can be done within a few weeks. The overall process can often be completed in a few weeks to a couple of months.

Is being a certified income tax preparer a good side hustle?

Certified income tax preparers can use their skills to earn extra income during tax season, often working flexible hours and utilizing tax software. It can be a profitable side hustle for those with strong attention to detail and knowledge of tax laws, but income varies based on client volume and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Certified Income Tax Preparer jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Certified Income Tax Preparer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Certified Income Tax Preparer jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Certified Income Tax Preparer jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Certified Income Tax Preparer jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Certified Income Tax Preparer job openings:

Certified Income Tax Preparer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Income Tax Preparer job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,697 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Tax Preparer / Staff Accountant

Mead, Coley and Company CPAs

Diamond Bar, CA • On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

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Job description

This position is on-site in our Diamond Bar office.

We are looking for an Experienced Tax Preparer/ Accountant. We are an accounting and tax CPA firm in Diamond Bar, CA, recognized for accuracy, professionalism, and developing long term relationships with our clients. We work extensively with QuickBooks Desktop, QuickBooks Online, and Lacerte Tax Preparation software, and we are seeking an Experienced Tax Preparer / Staff Accountant who is comfortable working with these platforms while supporting a diverse portfolio of individual and business clients.

This is a full‐time, in‐office role ideal for candidates who thrive in a collaborative, detail‐driven environment and who works well with minimal oversight, .

Job Duties

  • Prepare income tax returns for Individuals, Corporations, S-Corps, LLC's and Partnerships using Lacerte Tax Software
  • Identify and make note of missing and/or incomplete documentation needed for income tax return preparation
  • Review your prepared income tax returns for accuracy, completeness, and compliance before submitting to CPA for final review
  • Respond to tax notices and communicate with clients professionally
  • Manage a higher workload during the tax season, often requiring overtime and Saturday work during March and April
  • Manage multiple client engagements, deadlines, and priorities
  • Record accounting transactions to the correct GL account, post month-end journal entries, perform reconciliations and maintain accurate financial records of multiple small to medium-sized local businesses using QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online
  • Review financials for consistency and accuracy; notices when a number is off before anyone else does.
  • Ensure the accurate presentation of financial statements for each client, which is crucial for decision-making and compliance purposes.
  • File sales tax returns, payroll tax returns, and other miscellaneous forms as required
  • Support clients with bookkeeping and compliance needs
  • Some administrative tasks, including answering the phone and greeting clients as needed to help maintain a smooth office environment and to support client interactions

Qualifications

  • 4+ years of experience in tax preparation and accounting
  • Ability to manage client projects independently
  • EA or CTEC‐Registered Tax Preparer preferred
  • Strong and professional verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail for accuracy; details matter
  • Proficient with Excel & Microsoft Office Suite
  • Takes pride in getting things right the first time

Benefits

  • Health and dental insurance (company pays 75% of employee insurance)
  • SIMPLE IRA with employer match
  • Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
  • Flexible hours outside of tax season

If you’re ready for a stable, long‐term role with a strong team, apply today.