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Income Tax Return Preparer Jobs in Springfield, IL

Tax Associate

Springfield, IL

$58K - $77.30K/yr

Prepare federal, state and local income tax returns for individuals and businesses. * Prepare extensions and assist with tax notices as needed. * Prepare quarterly tax estimates and assist with tax ...

You will leverage your tax expertise to provide full service tax return preparation, tax advice ... income, amendments, or investments, you will serve as the go-to expert for your clients.

You will leverage your tax expertise to provide full service tax return preparation, tax advice ... income, amendments, or investments, you will serve as the go-to expert for your clients.

Seasonal Tax Expert - Local

Springfield, IL

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

You will leverage your tax expertise to provide full service tax return preparation, tax advice ... income, amendments, or investments, you will serve as the go-to expert for your clients.

You will leverage your tax expertise to provide full service tax return preparation, tax advice ... income, amendments, or investments, you will serve as the go-to expert for your clients.

Tax Associate

Springfield, IL

$58K - $77.30K/yr

You will leverage your tax expertise to provide full service tax return preparation, tax advice ... income, amendments, or investments, you will serve as the go-to expert for your clients.

Tax Associate - Local

Springfield, IL

$58K - $77.30K/yr

You will leverage your tax expertise to provide full service tax return preparation, tax advice ... income, amendments, or investments, you will serve as the go-to expert for your clients.

Tax Associate - Onsite

Springfield, IL

$58K - $77.30K/yr

You will leverage your tax expertise to provide full service tax return preparation, tax advice ... income, amendments, or investments, you will serve as the go-to expert for your clients.

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Income Tax Return Preparer information

See Springfield, IL salary details

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

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for income tax return preparer in Springfield, IL is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $19.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Income Tax Return Preparer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Income Tax Return Preparer, you need a solid understanding of tax laws, accounting principles, and attention to detail, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as the IRS Annual Filing Season Program. Familiarity with tax preparation software (e.g., TurboTax, Drake Tax, or ProSeries) and secure filing systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, integrity, and excellent client communication skills help you interpret regulations and explain tax matters clearly. These competencies ensure accuracy, compliance, and client trust, which are critical for success in tax preparation.

What are some common challenges faced by Income Tax Return Preparers during tax season, and how can they be managed?

During tax season, Income Tax Return Preparers often encounter tight deadlines, high client volume, and frequent changes in tax laws. Managing these challenges involves strong organizational skills, staying updated on regulation changes, and communicating clearly with clients to collect necessary documents promptly. Many preparers work extended hours during peak periods and rely on tax software to streamline the process, so adaptability and time management are essential for success in this role.

What are Income Tax Return Preparers?

Income Tax Return Preparers are professionals who assist individuals and businesses in preparing and filing their tax returns with the appropriate tax authorities. They ensure that all income, deductions, and credits are accurately reported in compliance with tax laws and regulations. Tax preparers may also provide advice on tax planning and strategies to minimize tax liabilities. Many preparers are certified or registered with relevant agencies, and some may represent clients before tax authorities if issues arise.

What is the difference between Income Tax Return Preparer vs Tax Advisor?

AspectIncome Tax Return PreparerTax Advisor
CredentialsPTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number), sometimes required certificationsVaries; may include CPA, EA, or other certifications
Work EnvironmentTax preparation firms, accounting offices, or freelanceConsulting firms, accounting firms, or independent practice
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in tax preparation industry, seasonal work

Income Tax Return Preparers focus on preparing and filing tax returns, often with specific credentials like PTIN. Tax Advisors provide broader tax planning and consulting services, often holding advanced certifications. While both work in the tax industry, their roles differ in scope and expertise.

What are popular job titles related to Income Tax Return Preparer jobs in Springfield, IL? For Income Tax Return Preparer jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Income Tax Return Preparer jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Income Tax Return Preparer jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Income Tax Return Preparer jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Income Tax Return Preparer job openings:

$58K - $77.30K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Focus Partners Wealth seeks a motivated and qualified individual for the position of Tax Associate. The individual selected for this opportunity will be a part of a dynamic team of professionals working with athletes, entertainers, entertainment industry professionals and other high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

Primary responsibilities:

  • Analyze, review and compile tax return data.
  • Prepare federal, state and local income tax returns for individuals and businesses.

  • Prepare extensions and assist with tax notices as needed.

  • Prepare quarterly tax estimates and assist with tax projections.

  • Perform work accurately and in a time efficient manner, with strong attention to detail, organization, and follow through.

  • Gain technical knowledge by researching and learning tax laws as required.

  • Analyze client information and offer recommendations for reducing client tax liabilities.

  • Communicate effectively with tax managers, advisors, and their clients in a timely and professional manner.

  • Operate in a fully compliant manner to protect clients’ and the firm’s information.

  • Act as a resource to the business management team for tax planning, tax research, and ongoing education of tax-related developments.

Qualifications:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting with a minimum of 1 + years’ relevant experience.
  • A demonstrated focus on preparing individual, S-corporation and partnership tax returns.

  • Superb written and verbal communication skills; strong problem solving, technology, communication and organizational skills.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, and proven ability to learn other technology.

  • Notable attention to detail, self-initiated follow-through, and outstanding time management.

  • Ability to work individually and in a team atmosphere.

  • The willingness and ability to work additional hours, as needed, during busy season.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • CPA, CPA candidate or EA granting the ability to represent clients before the IRS.

  • Experience preparing multi-state tax returns.

  • Experience with ProSystem fx® Tax, CCH Axcess and BNA Income Taxâ„¢ Planner.