How much does a Tax Preparer make?
Tax preparers play a crucial role in helping individuals and businesses file their taxes. They earn a respectable income for their work. The average yearly salary for a tax preparer is around $42,777. This means that, on average, tax preparers make a good living. Their earnings can vary based on experience and location.
The salary range for tax preparers can differ significantly. The lowest-paid tax preparers earn around $24,000 per year. Those in the middle of the range make about $38,727 annually. The highest-paid tax preparers can earn up to $105,000 per year. This wide range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field. Many tax preparers also have the chance to earn more through bonuses or by working during tax season.
What are the highest paying cities for a Tax Preparer?

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Montgomery, AL
Average Salary: $107,372
In Montgomery, tax professionals enjoy a stable job market. Many work for local accounting firms and government agencies. The city's moderate cost of living makes it a great place to start or grow a career.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $97,366
San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for tax experts. Working for tech companies and financial institutions is common. The city's high demand for tax services provides many opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $81,440
In Washington, DC, tax preparers often work for federal agencies and law firms. The city's political environment creates a steady need for tax professionals. It's a great place for those interested in public service.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $78,406
Detroit provides a unique setting for tax professionals. Many work for automotive companies and local businesses. The city's diverse economy offers various opportunities for growth.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $77,548
Portland offers a vibrant community for tax experts. Many work for tech startups and local firms. The city's progressive environment and quality of life make it an attractive place to work.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $77,484
In Memphis, tax professionals often work for healthcare and logistics companies. The city's growing economy provides many opportunities. The cost of living is low, making it a great place to live and work.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $75,532
Chicago offers a bustling job market for tax experts. Many work for large financial institutions and accounting firms. The city's diverse economy provides many opportunities for career growth.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $74,669
Boston provides a rich environment for tax professionals. Many work for educational institutions and financial firms. The city's historic charm and vibrant community make it an attractive place to work.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $74,175
In Dallas, tax experts often work for energy companies and tech firms. The city's fast-growing economy offers many opportunities. The cost of living is moderate, making it a great place to live and work.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $72,739
Miami offers a dynamic setting for tax professionals. Many work for international firms and local businesses. The city's diverse economy and warm climate make it an attractive place to work.
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What are the best companies a Tax Preparer can work for?

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EY
Average Salary: $124,319
EY offers Tax Preparer jobs with a focus on providing comprehensive tax services. They operate in many locations, including major cities across the United States. EY values teamwork and professional development, making it a great place for career growth.
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Rödl & Partner
Average Salary: $120,000
Rödl & Partner provides Tax Preparer positions with a strong emphasis on client service. They have offices in various cities, offering diverse opportunities. The company promotes a collaborative environment and offers competitive benefits.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $87,025
Deloitte offers Tax Preparer jobs with a focus on innovation and client satisfaction. They have offices in many major cities, providing a dynamic work environment. Deloitte offers extensive training and career advancement opportunities.
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JDA TSG
Average Salary: $82,033
JDA TSG provides Tax Preparer positions with a commitment to quality and client service. They operate in several locations, offering a variety of opportunities. The company values teamwork and professional growth.
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J & J Staffing Resources
Average Salary: $78,611
J & J Staffing Resources offers Tax Preparer jobs with a focus on flexibility and client service. They have offices in many cities, providing diverse opportunities. The company promotes a supportive work environment and offers competitive benefits.
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Ryan, LLC
Average Salary: $76,813
Ryan, LLC offers Tax Preparer positions with a strong emphasis on teamwork and client satisfaction. They operate in various locations, providing a dynamic work environment. The company offers extensive training and career development opportunities.
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Robert Half
Average Salary: $69,553
Robert Half provides Tax Preparer jobs with a focus on professional development and client service. They have offices in many cities, offering a variety of opportunities. The company values teamwork and offers competitive benefits.
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AppleOne
Average Salary: $68,056
AppleOne offers Tax Preparer positions with a commitment to quality and client service. They operate in several locations, providing diverse opportunities. The company values teamwork and offers extensive training.
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Guardian Tax
Average Salary: $65,470
Guardian Tax provides Tax Preparer jobs with a focus on client satisfaction and professional growth. They have offices in many cities, offering a variety of opportunities. The company values teamwork and offers competitive benefits.
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1-800Accountant
Average Salary: $60,465
1-800Accountant offers Tax Preparer positions with a commitment to quality and client service. They operate in several locations, providing diverse opportunities. The company values teamwork and offers extensive training.
How to earn more as a Tax Preparer?
Becoming a successful tax preparer involves more than just filing returns. It requires a combination of skills, dedication, and strategic planning. By focusing on certain key areas, a tax preparer can significantly increase their earnings. One of the most effective ways is to enhance one's expertise through continuous education and certification. Enrolling in courses and obtaining certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA) can open up higher-paying opportunities.
Another important factor is building a strong client base. Networking within the community and offering exceptional service can lead to referrals and repeat business. Tax preparers should also consider expanding their service offerings. Providing additional services such as bookkeeping, financial planning, or small business consulting can attract more clients and increase revenue. Leveraging technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency is another way to boost earnings. Using modern software can save time and reduce errors, allowing for more clients to be handled in a shorter period. Finally, marketing efforts play a crucial role in attracting new clients. Utilizing online marketing strategies, such as social media and SEO, can help reach a wider audience and grow the business.
Here are five factors to consider for increasing earnings as a tax preparer:
- Certifications: Obtain certifications like CPA or EA to enhance credibility and attract higher-paying clients.
- Client Base: Build strong relationships with clients through networking and excellent service to secure referrals and repeat business.
- Service Expansion: Offer additional services such as bookkeeping, financial planning, and small business consulting to attract more clients.
- Technology Use: Use modern software to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and increase the number of clients handled.
- Marketing: Implement effective marketing strategies, including online marketing and social media, to reach a wider audience.



