How much does a Tax Preparer make?
Tax preparers prepare tax returns for individuals and businesses. They review financial documents, ensure accuracy, and file necessary paperwork. The average yearly salary for tax preparers is around $45,103. This means most tax preparers earn between $24,000 and $109,075 a year.
A breakdown of the salary data shows that many tax preparers earn between $31,734 and $47,202 per year. About 26.75% of tax preparers fall in this range. This range shows that many tax preparers earn a good income. The highest earners make over $78,139 per year. These preparers likely have more experience or additional qualifications. It's clear that there is a wide range of salaries for tax preparers, depending on experience and location.
What are the highest paying cities for a Tax Preparer?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $85,052
In Washington, DC, one can find a stable environment for professionals managing tax documents. The presence of many government offices offers a steady flow of clients. Experienced tax preparers can work with firms like H&R Block or Liberty Tax.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $83,411
Portland offers a vibrant community for tax preparers. The city’s unique business scene provides various opportunities. Working with local firms like Liberty Tax or Jackson Hewitt can be rewarding.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $82,707
Atlanta is a bustling city with many opportunities for those in the tax preparation field. The diverse economy supports a steady demand for tax professionals. Firms like H&R Block and Liberty Tax are popular employers.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $81,438
San Francisco is known for its high cost of living and tech-driven economy. Tax preparers here often deal with complex tax situations. Working with major firms like H&R Block or Intuit can be beneficial.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $79,996
Chicago offers a rich environment for tax professionals. The city’s diverse industries mean a steady flow of clients. Companies like H&R Block and Jackson Hewitt provide numerous opportunities.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $79,077
Dallas is a growing city with many job opportunities for tax preparers. The strong economy supports a steady demand for tax services. Firms like H&R Block and Liberty Tax are well-established here.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $78,569
Boston’s rich history and education sector create a unique demand for tax professionals. Working here means dealing with a mix of businesses and individuals. Local firms like H&R Block offer good career prospects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $78,468
Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for tax professionals. The city’s entertainment industry adds to the variety of clients. Working with firms like H&R Block or Jackson Hewitt can be exciting.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $77,953
San Jose is at the heart of Silicon Valley, offering many opportunities for tax preparers. The tech industry’s influence means unique tax challenges. Firms like H&R Block are known employers here.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $75,429
Detroit’s automotive industry creates specific tax needs for professionals. The city’s economy is diverse, offering steady job opportunities. Local firms like H&R Block and Jackson Hewitt provide good career paths.
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What are the best companies a Tax Preparer can work for?

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Deloitte
Average Salary: $89,363
Deloitte offers competitive salaries for Tax Preparer jobs. They have offices across the globe, providing a dynamic and fast-paced work environment. Their Tax Preparer roles often involve handling complex tax situations for a diverse client base.
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Robert Half
Average Salary: $74,901
Robert Half boasts a solid average salary for Tax Preparers. The company operates in various sectors and has a strong reputation for employee satisfaction. Tax Preparers here enjoy a supportive work culture and opportunities for career growth.
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Guardian Tax
Average Salary: $68,775
Guardian Tax is known for offering good compensation to Tax Preparers. They specialize in tax services and have locations across the United States. Their Tax Preparer roles focus on client service and meticulous attention to detail.
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Fiesta Auto Insurance
Average Salary: $66,455
Fiesta Auto Insurance provides a competitive salary for Tax Preparers. The company primarily operates in the United States, focusing on insurance services. Their Tax Preparer jobs require strong organizational skills and customer service expertise.
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The Bonadio Group
Average Salary: $60,000
The Bonadio Group offers Tax Preparer positions with a strong average salary. They have multiple locations in New York, providing a robust platform for professional development. Their roles involve handling intricate tax issues and offering comprehensive tax planning services.
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1-800Accountant
Average Salary: $59,298
1-800Accountant offers a solid average salary for Tax Preparers. They operate across the United States and provide diverse tax services. Their Tax Preparer jobs demand precision and a thorough understanding of tax laws.
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AppleOne
Average Salary: $56,016
AppleOne provides a fair salary for Tax Preparer jobs. The company has multiple locations and offers various employment opportunities. Their Tax Preparer roles focus on delivering quality service to clients and maintaining accurate tax records.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $51,355
Express Employment Professionals offers competitive salaries for Tax Preparers. They have locations across the United States, focusing on staffing services. Their Tax Preparer roles involve assisting clients with their tax needs and providing accurate tax preparations.
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Intuit
Average Salary: $51,036
Intuit offers a competitive average salary for Tax Preparers. They are well-known for their tax software and have offices worldwide. Their Tax Preparer positions require proficiency in tax software and a customer-centric approach.
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IDEMIA
Average Salary: $41,511
IDEMIA provides a moderate salary for Tax Preparer jobs. The company specializes in digital identity and operates in various regions globally. Their Tax Preparer roles involve handling tax-related tasks and supporting clients with their tax needs.
How to earn more as a Tax Preparer?
Tax preparers can increase their earnings through several key strategies. Working diligently to stay updated on tax laws and regulations is essential. Continuous education ensures that preparers can offer the best advice to clients, boosting their reputation and income potential. Another way to earn more is to seek additional certifications, such as becoming an Enrolled Agent (EA) or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). These credentials can open doors to higher-paying opportunities.
Building a strong network can also lead to more clients and higher earnings. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and collaborating with other tax professionals can create valuable opportunities. Marketing skills are another factor to consider. Preparers who can effectively market their services through social media, websites, or local advertising can attract more clients. Finally, expanding service offerings can lead to increased revenue. Many tax preparers offer additional services such as bookkeeping, financial planning, or small business consulting, which can significantly boost income.
Tax preparers can consider these steps to maximize their earnings:
- Stay updated on tax laws and regulations
- Obtain additional certifications like EA or CPA
- Build a strong network through industry events and organizations
- Develop effective marketing strategies
- Expand service offerings to include related financial services



