Why You Should Become a Tax Preparer and How to Do It

Everything you need to know to launch your tax preparer career right.

If you are looking for a rewarding career that allows you to help people and businesses with their taxes, you might want to consider becoming a tax preparer. A tax preparer is a professional who prepares tax returns for individuals, corporations, partnerships, trusts, estates, and other entities. Tax preparers can also provide tax advice, planning, and representation services to their clients.

There are many benefits to becoming a tax preparer, such as:

• You can work independently or for a firm, depending on your preference and goals.
• You can choose your own schedule and workload, depending on the season and your availability.
• You can earn a good income, especially during the peak tax season from January to April.
• You can build long-term relationships with your clients and help them save money and avoid tax problems.
• You can keep your skills and knowledge up to date by taking continuing education courses and staying informed of the latest tax laws and regulations.

But how do you become a tax preparer? What are the requirements and steps involved? Here is a brief overview of the process:

Step 1: Register with the IRS and receive a preparer tax identification number (PTIN)

The first step to becoming a tax preparer is to register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and obtain a preparer tax identification number (PTIN). A PTIN is a unique number that identifies you as a tax preparer and allows you to sign tax returns that you prepare for compensation. You can apply for a PTIN online at https://www.irs.gov/ptin or by mail using Form W-12. The application fee is $35.95 per year.

Step 2: Become an enrolled agent through the IRS

The next step is to become an enrolled agent (EA) through the IRS. An EA is a tax professional who has demonstrated special competence in federal taxation and has unlimited representation rights before the IRS. This means that you can represent your clients on any matters involving audits, collections, appeals, and other issues.

To become an EA, you need to:

• Pass a three-part Special Enrollment Examination (SEE), which covers individual and business tax return preparation, representation, practices and procedures, and federal tax law.
• Apply for enrollment and pay an enrollment fee of $67 electronically using Pay.gov Form 23 or by mail using Form 23, Application for Enrollment to Practice Before the Internal Revenue Service.
• Pass a suitability check, which includes verifying your tax compliance and criminal background.

You can find more information about the EA program at https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/enrolled-agents.

Step 3: Complete professional training from karmeacademy.com

The third step is to complete professional training from karmeacademy.com, which is an online platform that offers courses and certifications for tax preparers. Karme Academy provides comprehensive and practical training on various topics related to tax preparation, such as:

• Tax fundamentals
• Income and deductions
• Credits and payments
• Business income and expenses
• Depreciation and amortization
• Retirement plans and distributions
• Estate and gift taxes
• Ethics and professional responsibility
• And more

By completing the courses and passing the exams, you will earn certificates of completion that demonstrate your proficiency and credibility as a tax preparer. You will also gain access to exclusive resources, tools, and support from Karme Academy’s instructors and mentors.

You can enroll in Karme Academy’s courses at https://www.karmeacademy.com/courses.

Step 4: Apply for a job at mykarme.com/careers

The final step is to apply for a job at mykarme.com/careers, which is the website of Karme Tax Services, a leading provider of tax preparation and consulting services. Karme Tax Services is looking for qualified, experienced, and motivated tax preparers who can join their team of professionals.

As a tax preparer at Karme Tax Services, you will:

• Prepare accurate and compliant federal and state tax returns for individuals and businesses using Karme’s proprietary software.
• Communicate with clients via phone, email, or chat to gather information, answer questions, resolve issues, and provide excellent customer service.
• Research complex tax issues using authoritative sources and apply relevant laws and regulations to client situations.
• Review tax returns prepared by other team members for quality assurance purposes.
• Maintain confidentiality of client information and adhere to ethical standards of conduct.

To apply for a job at Karme Tax Services, you need to:

• Have a valid PTIN and EA credential from the IRS.
• Have completed professional training from karmeacademy.com or have equivalent education or experience in tax preparation.
• Have excellent communication, computer, and analytical skills.
• Have a reliable internet connection and a suitable home office environment.

You can submit your resume and cover letter at https://www.mykarme.com/careers.

Conclusion

Becoming a tax preparer is a great way to start or advance your career in the tax industry. By following the steps outlined above, you can acquire the necessary skills, credentials, and experience to prepare tax returns for various clients and represent them before the IRS. You can also join Karme Tax Services, a reputable and growing company that offers competitive compensation, flexible work arrangements, and professional development opportunities.

If you are interested in becoming a tax preparer, don’t hesitate to take action today. Register for a PTIN, study for the EA exam, enroll in Karme Academy’s courses, and apply for a job at Karme Tax Services. You will be on your way to a rewarding and fulfilling career as a tax preparer.