Tax accountants use their knowledge of tax laws and regulations to prepare, file, and manage the taxes of individuals and organizations. Learn more about how you can start your career as a tax accountant.
If you're interested in the taxation system, a career as a tax accountant is a great option. Tax accountants are in demand across various sectors, from local governments to accounting firms. You might also choose to work independently as a consultant. Learn more about a tax accountant's job role and career path.
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A tax accountant handles the taxes for individuals, organizations, companies, or governments. Unlike an accountant who oversees all financial matters, you鈥檒l specialize solely in taxes and follow tax laws set at the federal, state, and local levels.听
While income tax preparers also prepare and file taxes for clients, tax accountants have qualifications and expertise that extend beyond this, enabling them to provide ongoing and long-term tax assistance to the people and entities they serve.听
As a tax professional, your regular tasks and responsibilities might include:
Preparing federal and state tax returns
Offering tax planning advice
Helping clients save money during tax season
Creating annual tax-related plans for clients to follow throughout the year
Protecting clients from paying more than necessary
Making sure clients meet quarterly and annual tax deadlines
Advising clients about the impact of tax laws and liabilities
Arranging tax audits with authorities when needed
The US accounting system incorporates both tax accounting and financial accounting, also known as generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). GAAP centers on delivering precise financial information to external parties. Tax accounting, on the other hand, prioritizes compliance with tax laws.听
The median annual salary in the US for accountants and auditors is $81,680, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) []. Your salary will vary depending on your education, experience level, the industry you work in, and the state you live in.
As for job outlook, the number of jobs between 2024 and 2034 is set to grow 5 percent, faster than average for all jobs []. Many accountants work in private practices or freelance when tax season rolls around.
Tax accountants, especially in the United States, help individuals and organizations prepare their taxes for submission to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) every year. A good accountant is familiar with intricate rules to help their clients save as much money as possible. They can even act as financial advisors and are sometimes hired to do so when dealing with large sums of money and assets. The US federal tax system is comprehensive, so learning how to apply basic principles to tax returns and strategies is a useful skill for anybody to learn.
Tax accountants distinguish themselves by the industry they work in or the clients they serve. Some examples include:
CPA tax accountants are certified public accountants (CPAs) who also offer tax accounting services.
Forensic tax accountants investigate individuals and businesses in anticipation of a legal proceeding.
Management tax accountants take care of financial and tax matters for organizations and businesses.
Personal tax accountants manage taxes for individuals.
Government tax accountants work with federal, state, and local government agencies.
Small business tax accountants focus on smaller and typically privately owned businesses.
Tax accounts handle complex, confidential data regulated by law. If you have a keen understanding of mathematics, pay attention to detail, and enjoy serving others in a way that helps them flourish financially, you may be well-suited for a tax accountant role. Specific skills you'll need include:
Knowledge of the latest federal, state, and local tax laws and regulations
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and tax preparation software
Understanding of basic arithmetic and statistics to calculate complex tax information
Attention to detail in order to accurately prepare error-free documents and tax returns
Verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with clients
Organizational skills to keep financial records easily accessible for reference
Time-management skills to meet important deadlines
Critical thinking and analytical skills to evaluate data, uncover fraud, and minimize tax liability
As you complete your studies and gain experience as a tax accountant, you will likely find that your interests and abilities gravitate toward a certain industry or clientele. Continue to refine your skills in the specialties that you choose, hone your customer service skills, and stay on top of tax law and requirements.听
Your career path may also lead you to a different accounting career, such as a management accountant, public accountant, budget director, or internal auditor. Some tax accountants also progress to become top executives and financial managers of corporations, including financial vice presidents, treasurers, controllers, and chief financial officers.
While degrees aren't always required, many accountants have a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance. Tax accountants who take courses in tax law are particularly well-prepared for their profession. Some employers seek out tax accountants who have master's degrees in accountancy or business administration.听
Many tax accountants also hold certifications. Certifications help build your skill set and validate your knowledge to potential employers. Consider the following certification options:
Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This credential is useful for accountants who file reports with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). It requires both passing a national exam and meeting certain state requirements.
Enrolled Agent (EA): This option allows tax accountants to legally represent clients in front of the IRS and involves passing the IRS Special Enrollment Exam.听
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US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm." Accessed September 9, 2025.
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