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Tax Return Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tax Associate

Darien, GA ยท On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

Preparing tax returns for individuals, corporations, and trusts, based on experience and training * Completing and filing (if applicable) tax documents with appropriate agencies, like the IRS, state ...

Tax Associate

Darien, GA ยท On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

Preparing tax returns for individuals, corporations, and trusts, based on experience and training * Completing and filing (if applicable) tax documents with appropriate agencies, like the IRS, state ...

Tax Associate

Darien, GA ยท On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

Preparing tax returns for individuals, corporations, and trusts, based on experience and training * Completing and filing (if applicable) tax documents with appropriate agencies, like the IRS, state ...

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Tax Return information

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How much do tax return jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for tax return in the United States is $17.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Tax Return Preparer, you need a solid understanding of tax laws, accounting principles, and attention to detail, often backed by relevant certifications or an accounting degree. Familiarity with tax preparation software (e.g., TurboTax, Drake, or ProSeries) and electronic filing systems is essential. Strong communication, analytical thinking, and integrity are standout soft skills for building client trust and accurately interpreting financial data. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring compliance, minimizing errors, and delivering valuable service during the tax season.

How to get a job doing tax returns?

To get a job doing tax returns, you should develop knowledge of tax laws and accounting principles, often through relevant education or certification such as becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or enrolled agent. Experience with tax preparation software like TurboTax or Drake is valuable, and many employers prefer candidates with prior experience or formal training in tax preparation. Job opportunities are available in accounting firms, tax preparation companies, or as independent contractors during tax season.

How long does it take to be a tax return preparer?

Becoming a tax return preparer typically involves completing a qualifying education course, passing a competency exam, and obtaining a preparer tax identification number (PTIN). The process can take a few weeks to several months depending on the individual's schedule and prior experience with tax laws and software tools.

What is a tax return?

A tax return is a formal document or set of documents filed with a tax authority, such as the IRS in the United States, that reports income, expenses, and other relevant financial information. Individuals and businesses use tax returns to calculate their tax liability, schedule tax payments, or request refunds for overpaid taxes. Filing a tax return is usually required annually and helps ensure compliance with tax laws. The information provided on a tax return is used by tax authorities to assess whether the correct amount of tax has been paid.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals preparing tax returns, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals preparing tax returns often encounter challenges such as keeping up with frequent changes in tax laws, managing tight deadlines during peak tax season, and ensuring accuracy while handling complex client situations. Effective communication with clients and ongoing professional development are essential to stay updated and avoid errors. Many teams foster a collaborative environment where colleagues can share knowledge, which helps reduce stress and maintain high-quality work, especially during busy periods.

What is the difference between Tax Return vs Tax Preparer?

AspectTax ReturnTax Preparer
CredentialsTypically none required, but some certifications like IRS PTINRequires IRS PTIN, certifications like EA or CPA often preferred
Work EnvironmentFiling and processing tax documents, often in offices or remotelyPreparing and reviewing tax returns for clients, in offices or remotely
Employer & IndustryIndividuals, small businesses, tax agenciesAccounting firms, tax preparation services, freelance

While a Tax Return is a document filed with tax authorities, a Tax Preparer is a professional who prepares and files these returns for clients. The roles are interconnected, but one is a document, and the other is a service provider.

More about Tax Return jobs
What cities are hiring for Tax Return jobs? Cities with the most Tax Return job openings:
What states have the most Tax Return jobs? States with the most job openings for Tax Return jobs include:
Infographic showing various Tax Return job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,092 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Seasonal tax return preparer

Harris Group CPAs

Traverse City, MI โ€ข Hybrid

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Harris Group is seeking a seasonal tax return preparer. Candidate will need to have experience preparing 1040, 1065, 1120S and 1120 type returns. This position can be a hybrid of work from home and onsite.

We do feel valuable team building is gained by having an onsite person. We use Ultra Tax software for our tax preparation and a few additional tools. Position would have a begin date of February 1 and end date of April 15th.