Tax Preparer
Controller Job Description
Tax preparers prepare tax returns for small businesses and individuals. These professionals may also be called tax associates, tax advisors, tax consultants, Enrolled Agent, certified income tax preparers, corporate tax preparers, tax specialists, and master tax advisors. Tax preparers calculate the taxes clients have overpaid or owe. These professionals use computers and adding machines, and they follow tax tables and tax form instructions. Tax preparers must ensure they apply appropriate deductions, credits, and adjustments so clients do not pay more than necessary. They interview clients to gather information about deductible expenses, taxable income, and allowances. These professionals prepare complex and simple tax returns for small businesses and individual clients. In a way, tax preparers are asked to serve two masters – their clients and the IRS. While they are hired to serve their client, they must also diligently remember their obligation to the IRS and not break any laws or help others file a fraudulent return.
Tax preparers need excellent technology skills, since they use a variety of software for tasks including tax preparation, accounting, spreadsheet creation, financial analysis, and email. These professionals often work with Intuit QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Outlook. Professionals in the field need oral comprehension abilities to understand clients’ information and ideas. Additionally, they should boast strong written comprehension skills and be able to use deductive reasoning to identify issues and derive effective solutions. Tax preparers often boast excellent active listening skills, since they must give clients complete, undivided attention to understand critical financial points. Professionals must ask questions when necessary, without interrupting clients. Tax preparers apply critical-thinking skills to analyze problems and create effective solutions. Tax preparers must be able to solve complex problems. They identify issues and review the most effective solutions. Tax preparers work directly with the public and should be comfortable serving clients in various settings. Tax preparers should be detail-oriented and thorough. They often boast a high tolerance for stress and work well under pressure, since they work primarily during the busy tax season with clients who are often under high amounts of stress. Tax preparers must be able to remain calm and tactful in difficult situations.
You don’t need a bachelor’s or associate degree to become a tax preparer. However, to build a successful tax prep business, it helps to have basic math, computer, and customer service skills. Most tax preparers hold a degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. However, many have only a high school diploma. An associate degree in a financial discipline can qualify tax preparers for entry-level positions in the field. Associate programs help learners develop a general understanding of topics related to the profession. Many tax preparers earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.
Typical duties of a Controller
· Calculate tax payments
· Estimate tax returns, deductibles, liabilities, and expenses
· Prepare quarterly and annual reports
· Collect data from income statements and expense documents
· Complete clients’ tax documentation
· Review data on reports and detect possible errors
· Answer tax- and finance-related questions
· Research new tax trends and regulations
· Advise individuals and companies on tax strategies
· Ensure compliance with government tax rules
Skills:
· Experience as a Tax Preparer or a similar role
· Good knowledge of tax preparation software
· Advanced MS Office skills (particularly in using Excel)
· Comprehensive understanding of government tax laws
· Excellent computational ability
· Effective verbal and written communication skills
· A degree in Finance or Accounting
Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance.