Candidates must pass a suitability check of prior criminal background and proper tax return completion. However, educational, professional, and examination requirements for these career paths vary, sometimes depending on location.īecoming an enrolled agent requires no specific educational background. Each of these career paths requires candidates to pass an exam and acquire an IRS preparer tax identification number (PTIN). To hold unlimited representation rights, tax preparers must earn certification as enrolled agents (EAs), certified public accountants (CPAs), or attorneys.
These professionals can also handle audits and appeals for their clients. Tax preparers with unlimited representation rights can take new clients regardless of who signed their tax returns.
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Those with limited representation require no license or certification, but they can only work with clients whose tax returns they personally have completed and signed. Tax preparers fall into one of two categories: limited or unlimited representation rights. How Do You Qualify for a Tax Preparer License?
With an emphasis on lifelong learning, tax preparation professionals always have an in-demand skill set that employers and clients need.Įxplore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level. Certified tax preparers must complete these courses to keep their certifications active.
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Lifelong Learning Accountants in all specialties can complete professional development courses to learn the latest best practices and laws in the field. More clients can also result in positive word-of-mouth, allowing accountants to build their personal brands faster than if they had not become tax preparers. Larger Client Base An accountant who becomes a tax preparer can offer their services to a larger client base to increase their job security and salary. For the remainder of the year, tax preparers can pursue other professional and personal opportunities while still offering their services to people in need.
Flexibility Since the IRS requires Americans to pay their federal income taxes by April 15, most Americans only need tax preparation services in the spring. Employment in large metropolitan areas often makes for some of the highest tax preparer salaries. Even non-certified preparers can benefit from high hourly salaries if they possess specialized training and experience. Salary Tax preparer salaries are often high, especially for certified public accountants and authorized agents who complete rigorous training courses and exams. The certification process is a wise investment that can grow your career and help you establish a bigger client base. Why Get Tax Preparer Certification?Ĭertified tax preparers (e.g., authorized agents, certified public accountants, and tax attorneys) enjoy many career benefits, including increased job security and earning potential. Keep in mind that requirements to become a tax preparer may vary among states. The following sections cover tax preparer credentials and exams. Tax preparation certification yields more job opportunities and allows tax professionals to represent clients before the IRS. Though not required to prepare taxes in many states, certification can bring valuable benefits, including a higher salary and job security. To regulate the tax preparation profession, the IRS and many state governments grant certifications and licenses to qualified professionals. These professionals use their expertise to ensure that clients pay the correct amount to the government. Each year, tax preparers help millions of Americans prepare and file their taxes.