Tax Preparers

The work

Core tasks

1. 01Compute taxes owed or overpaid, using adding machines or personal computers, and complete entries on forms, following tax form instructions and tax tables.
2. 02Use all appropriate adjustments, deductions, and credits to keep clients' taxes to a minimum.
3. 03Furnish taxpayers with sufficient information and advice to ensure correct tax form completion.
4. 04Interview clients to obtain additional information on taxable income and deductible expenses and allowances.
5. 05Prepare or assist in preparing simple to complex tax returns for individuals or small businesses.
6. 06Review financial records, such as income statements and documentation of expenditures to determine forms needed to prepare tax returns.
7. 07Check data input or verify totals on forms prepared by others to detect errors in arithmetic, data entry, or procedures.
8. 08Explain federal and state tax laws to individuals and companies.
9. 09Answer questions and provide future tax planning to clients.
10. 10Consult tax law handbooks or bulletins to determine procedures for preparation of atypical returns.
11. 11Calculate form preparation fees according to return complexity and processing time required.
12. 12Schedule appointments with clients.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading