How to become tax preparerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$54,920
25th–75th pct. $38,910–$76,300
Top pay (est.)
$129,100
Top 10% $99,270
Pay in 5 years
$60,600est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$66,800est.
$57,500–$77,600
Outlook score
48/100
★★☆☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
85%
Very high
Job growth (10 yr)
+4.7%
9,400 openings / yr
How to become tax preparers
Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Tax Preparers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Updating and Using Relevant KnowledgeGetting InformationProcessing InformationOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsAnalyzing Data or InformationDocumenting/Recording Information
Important abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionNear VisionDeductive ReasoningNumber Facility
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as tax preparers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.