As a tax assistant, you’ll help the tax department prepare tax returns and other required forms for businesses and individuals. You’ll also assist with the preparation of W-2s and 1099 statements for employees. A tax assistant is also responsible for providing exceptional customer service and scheduling client appointments. You’ll need to be detail-oriented and able to keep track of a multitude of files.
You’ll be working in the office of a tax accountant, so you’ll need to keep current on tax laws. A TA will also have to research tax issues as they arise and resolve them in a timely manner. This role will also require you to manage your manager’s schedule and oversee phone lines. In addition, you’ll need to have a strong computer skillset. You’ll also need to be able to enter client information into a tax database.
As technology advances, tax assistants will be required to learn specific processes. In many cases, the training will last for a few weeks or months. You’ll likely spend part of the training shadowing current tax assistants, completing tasks under supervision, and learning how to do them independently. Getting certified as a tax assistant isn’t mandatory, but it can show employers you are dedicated to the field. It can also increase your earning potential.
While tax assistants focus on compliance work, they may also be asked to assist with audit work, preparing tax computation schedules, and other statutory filings. They also work with the advisory and audit teams, helping to resolve tax queries. Some tax assistants also do research on local, regional, and international tax matters.
In addition to being responsible for preparing and filing individual and business income tax returns, a tax assistant must have a strong attention to detail. This helps maintain accuracy and catch errors. Tax returns are filed manually or electronically. Accounts payables are also processed as needed. You must have a thorough understanding of complicated regulations and how to calculate deductions.
You’ll be able to use Tax Assistant for Excel to determine itemizing deductions. You’ll also be able to obtain computerized records of your tax filing. This software also allows you to automatically prepare Form 8949 and Schedule D. If you need more information, you can consult an accountant. If you’re not a computer expert, you can use Tax Assistant for Excel to get IRS-approved digital copies of your tax returns.
A tax assistant can earn anywhere between $24,000 and $79,000 per year, depending on their level of experience. The top-earning tax assistants can earn $58,000 per year or more. If you’re interested in a higher-paying career, you can consider moving into the corporate tax preparation sector, as a corporate tax preparer, or as an income tax expert.
A tax assistant’s responsibilities include filing taxes, coordinating meetings, and interacting with clients. This job requires tact and courtesy in dealing with the public. Typically, tax assistants work under general supervision, but they’re also often given tasks to perform independently.
