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What does a Tax Accountant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A tax accountant is responsible for preparing, filing, and paying taxes for individuals or businesses. They may also be responsible for auditing tax returns and providing tax planning advice to clients.

Tax Accountant job duties include:

  • Prepare tax returns, both individual and corporate
  • Ensure that taxes are paid on time
  • Keep abreast of changes in tax law
  • Advise clients on the tax implications of their business decisions
  • Plan and implement strategies to minimize a client’s tax liability
  • Represent clients before the IRS or other tax authorities
  • Conduct audits of clients’ financial records
  • Prepare reports and financial statements
  • Research tax-related issues

Tax Accountant Job Requirements

A Tax Accountant is responsible for preparing and filing tax returns, as well as ensuring that taxes are paid on time. They must have a strong understanding of tax laws and regulations, and be able to effectively communicate with clients. A Tax Accountant typically needs a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, and must pass the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Some Tax Accountants may also need to obtain a master's degree in taxation.

Tax Accountant Skills

  • Tax law
  • Tax accounting
  • Tax planning
  • Tax research
  • Tax return preparation
  • Tax compliance
  • Tax audits
  • Tax consulting
  • Tax software
  • Excel
  • Communication

Related: Top Tax Accountant Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Tax Accountant

A tax accountant is a professional who helps businesses and individuals file their taxes correctly and on time. Tax accountants are usually employed by accounting firms, but some work independently. To become a tax accountant, you will need to have at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Many tax accountants also have a master's degree in taxation or a certified public accountant (CPA) designation.

Most tax accountants start their careers as staff accountants or auditors. In these positions, they learn the basics of tax law and gain experience preparing tax returns. They may also work with clients to help them understand their tax obligations and minimize their taxes. With experience, tax accountants can move into management positions or open their own accounting firms.

If you want to become a tax accountant, you should be good with numbers and have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You should also be able to communicate effectively with clients and other professionals.

Related: Tax Accountant Resume Example

Related: Tax Accountant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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