Tax Preparer

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Work Tasks

• Figure out income tax returns for people and businesses
• Look at financial records and get information from the client
• Enter the information on paper or computer tax forms
• Make sure that government rules are followed
• Work in offices for the Internal Revenue Service, tax service firms, and themselves (self-employed)
• Work with computers, computer printouts, calculators, adding machines, income tax return forms, financial records, and tax law handbooks

Salary, Size & Growth

• $39,500 average per year ($19.00 per hour)
• A medium occupation (57,000 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.3% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A high school diploma and 18 years of age or older
• Employers Prefer: Courses in tax preparation and work experience
• Skills/Courses: Courses in basic personal income tax law, theory, and practice
• Certification/Licensing: Registration is required.