Tax Preparer Salaries
How much does a Tax Preparer make?
Tax preparers play a crucial role in helping individuals and businesses file their taxes. They earn a median salary of about $40,598 per year. This means half of all tax preparers make more than this amount, and half make less. The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of clients they serve.
Tax preparers can expect to earn different amounts depending on their level of experience. Entry-level preparers might start around $24,000. With more experience, the salary can rise significantly. Those with several years of experience can earn between $50,000 and $60,000. Highly experienced preparers, especially those who own their own businesses, can earn over $90,000 annually. This range shows that there are good opportunities for growth in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Tax Preparer?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $99,428
In San Francisco, professionals find rewarding opportunities in tax preparation. With a high cost of living, skilled tax preparers are in demand. Companies like H&R Block and Jackson Hewitt offer stable positions.
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Montgomery, AL
Average Salary: $82,641
Montgomery, AL, offers a welcoming environment for tax preparers. The city's lower cost of living makes it an attractive place to work. Local firms such as Liberty Tax Service provide excellent career growth.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $72,496
San Diego provides a vibrant setting for tax professionals. The city's diverse economy offers many job opportunities. Companies like Intuit and TaxAct are prominent employers in the area.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $72,051
Chicago is a bustling hub for tax preparers. The city's large population means high demand for tax services. Major firms like EY and Deloitte offer dynamic career paths.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $70,562
Portland offers a unique blend of urban and natural settings for tax professionals. The city's growing economy creates many job opportunities. Local businesses and national firms alike seek skilled preparers.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $70,084
Dallas provides a thriving environment for tax preparers. The city's strong economy offers numerous job opportunities. Companies such as H&R Block and Liberty Tax Service are well-established here.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $70,061
Miami offers a dynamic setting for tax professionals. The city's diverse population and economy create many job opportunities. Firms like Jackson Hewitt and TaxAct are prominent in the area.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $68,468
St. Louis provides a stable environment for tax preparers. The city's lower cost of living makes it an attractive place to work. Local firms and national companies offer good career prospects.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $68,269
Des Moines offers a friendly environment for tax professionals. The city's moderate cost of living and strong community make it a great place to work. Local firms and national companies offer good opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $68,061
Boston provides a rich environment for tax preparers. The city's high cost of living is offset by excellent job opportunities. Companies like PricewaterhouseCoopers and EY offer dynamic career paths.
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What are the best companies a Tax Preparer can work for?

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EY
Average Salary: $124,432
EY offers Tax Preparer jobs with a strong focus on client service and tax compliance. EY operates in many locations, including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. They provide a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
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Rödl & Partner
Average Salary: $120,000
Rödl & Partner is known for its comprehensive tax services. They have offices in major cities like Miami, San Francisco, and Boston. Working here means you will be part of a team that values expertise and client satisfaction.
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Vaco
Average Salary: $115,107
Vaco offers Tax Preparer positions with a variety of clients across different industries. They have offices in cities like Houston, Denver, and Seattle. Vaco emphasizes flexibility and career advancement for its employees.
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E-business International Inc
Average Salary: $99,118
E-business International Inc provides Tax Preparer jobs with a focus on technology and innovation. They operate in cities such as San Jose, Austin, and Raleigh. This company offers a modern work environment with a strong emphasis on teamwork.
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IRS
Average Salary: $83,538
The IRS offers Tax Preparer jobs with a stable and secure work environment. They have offices across the United States, including Washington, D.C., Atlanta, and Philadelphia. Working for the IRS means you will be part of a critical public service.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $82,082
Deloitte provides Tax Preparer positions with a focus on global tax solutions. They have offices in major cities like New York, London, and Singapore. Deloitte offers a collaborative work environment with opportunities for international experience.
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JDA TSG
Average Salary: $81,885
JDA TSG offers Tax Preparer jobs with a strong emphasis on technology and supply chain management. They operate in cities such as Phoenix, Minneapolis, and Charlotte. This company provides a supportive work environment with a focus on innovation.
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DAVID S. CUTLER CPA PC
Average Salary: $80,962
DAVID S. CUTLER CPA PC offers Tax Preparer jobs with a personalized approach to client service. They have offices in Los Angeles and San Diego. Working here means you will be part of a small, dedicated team that values client relationships.
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J & J Staffing Resources
Average Salary: $80,357
J & J Staffing Resources provides Tax Preparer positions with a focus on staffing and recruitment. They operate in cities like Dallas, Atlanta, and San Francisco. This company offers a flexible work environment with a strong emphasis on employee satisfaction.
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Ryan, LLC
Average Salary: $77,106
Ryan, LLC offers Tax Preparer jobs with a focus on financial services and consulting. They have offices in cities such as Chicago, New York, and San Francisco. Working here means you will be part of a team that values expertise and client service.
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 to boost income is through continuous education and certification. Staying updated on tax laws and obtaining certifications like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA) can open doors to higher-paying clients and more complex cases.
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 who excel in customer service and maintain a professional reputation often find themselves in high demand. Additionally, leveraging technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency can lead to higher productivity. Using software that simplifies tax preparation not only saves time but also reduces errors, allowing for more accurate and faster service. Investing in marketing efforts, such as a professional website or social media presence, can also attract more clients and increase earnings. Finally, offering additional services such as financial planning or bookkeeping can provide extra revenue streams and enhance the value offered to clients.
By focusing on these areas, tax preparers can position themselves for greater success and higher earnings.
- Continuous education and certification
- Building a strong client base
- Leveraging technology for efficiency
- Investing in marketing efforts
- Offering additional services