Back to Search
Add to favorites
Career Profile

Tax Preparers

What they do:

Prepare tax returns for individuals or small businesses.

Also Called:

Certified Income Tax Preparer (CTP), Corporate Tax Preparer, Enrolled Agent, Income Tax Preparer, Tax Advisor, Tax Associate, Tax Consultant, Tax Preparer, Tax Professional, Tax Specialist, Certified Income Tax Preparer (CTP), Corporate Tax Preparer, Enrolled Agent, Income Tax Preparer, Tax Advisor, Tax Associate, Tax Consultant, Tax Preparer, Tax Professional, Tax Specialist

NY Employment Data

*State data provided by O*NET & BLS
Compare State Data      Compare Metro Area Data   
$39,010
Starting Salary (2025)
$71,850
Median Salary (2025)
4.5%
Projected Job Growth
7,620
NY Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Answer questions and provide future tax planning to clients.
Calculate form preparation fees according to return complexity and processing time required.
Check data input or verify totals on forms prepared by others to detect errors in arithmetic, data entry, or procedures.
Compute taxes owed or overpaid, using adding machines or personal computers, and complete entries on forms, following tax form instructions and tax tables.
Consult tax law handbooks or bulletins to determine procedures for preparation of atypical returns.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Enterprising
Business based Work
Social
Working with people

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Integrity
Dependability
Self-Control
Cooperation
Stress Tolerance

What key skills are needed for this job?

Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Monitoring
Mathematics

Expected Knowledge

Customer and Personal Service

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Economics and Accounting

Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Common Activities

Working with Computers

Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

Getting Information

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge

Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 3

Medium Preparation Needed

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • High school diploma 32%
  • Bachelor's degree 32%
  • Some college 18%
  • Post-secondary certificate 14%
  • Less than high school 5%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Related Careers

Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents
Accountants and Auditors
Credit Counselors

Add Tax Preparers to your favorites?

Add to favorites
Back to Search  

More Info

wcidwtm logo

Explore 106 major profiles, common career paths and strategies to maximize opportunities.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
mynextmove-p-500 logo

Search career information in detail by keywords, browse by industry, or via your interests.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
careeronestop logo

Explore career options, find training and education, plan for your job search and find local help and services.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
blsooh logo

The Occupational Outlook Handbook - browse occupations and resources and explore occupation groups.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
onet logo

The nation's primary source of occupational information. Complete data and information breakdowns for all careers.

Visit Site
(opens in new tab)
*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.