Tax Accountant: Job Description Requirements
Job Description for Tax Accountant
Tax accountants prepare federal, state and local tax returns for businesses, organizations and individuals. As such, these professionals are knowledgeable on business concepts and government regulations. Tax accountants may advise clients on how to minimize tax liability, inform them of any tax changes that affect their business and ensure compliance with taxing agency requirements. Tax accountants are involved in any disputes or audits that affect their clients.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for accountants and auditors was expected to increase by 11% from 2014-2024. The increase is due to stricter regulations and a need for accountants to handle compliance matters.
The BLS reported a median annual salary of $67,190 for accountants and auditors in 2015. The top paying industries at that time were securities and commodity brokerages and the federal government.
Find schools that offer these popular programs
- Accounting with Computers, General
- Financial Accounting
- Managerial Accounting
- Taxation, General
Requirements for Becoming a Tax Accountant
A bachelor’s degree is usually the minimum educational requirement for becoming a tax accountant. Prospective tax accountants may seek out accounting programs or related majors such as business administration. Individuals who are considering master’s programs in accountancy may look for programs that include a tax concentration. These programs include coursework in financial planning, auditing and taxation, in addition to courses in business calculus and statistics.
Certification and Licensing Requirements
In order to file reports with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, accountants must be licensed as Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) by their state boards. Specific requirements for licensure vary by state, but most mandate applicants to complete 150 semester hours, 30 hours more than what is required for a 4-year degree. Additionally, states typically mandate that applicants have two years experience in accounting.
Once eligible, candidates may take the CPA exam administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (www.aicpa.org ). After earning their certification, most CPAs must complete continuing education to maintain their credentials.
Tax accountants hold at least a bachelor’s degree, but because additional credits are usually required in order to become a CPA, many professionals go on to earn graduate certificates or master’s degrees. While tax accountants generally work regular business hours, it’s important to note that during tax season their hours and workload can increase significantly.
Next: View Schools
A tax accountant requires some formal education. Learn about the degree programs, job duties and certification to see if this.
If you’re considering a career as an international tax accountant, you’ll need at least your bachelor’s degree in a field like.
Learn about the education and preparation needed to become a corporate tax accountant. Get a quick view of the requirements as.
If you’ve been out of school for awhile – or if this is your first time in higher ed – you may be unsure how attending college.