Tax Preparer
Aston Carter · West Des Moines, IA · 1 wk ago
On-siteAccounting$31.2–$39.71/hrContract
Responsibilities
- Prepare or assist in preparing simple to complex income tax returns for individuals and small businesses.
- Identify potential tax credits, deductions, and liabilities to ensure clients receive the maximum benefit permitted under applicable laws.
- Complete tax forms in accordance with internal policies and in full compliance with federal, state, and local legislation and regulations.
- Use federal, state, and local tax codes to accurately prepare returns and address client-specific tax situations.
- Review financial records such as income statements, documentation of expenditures, and other supporting documents to ensure completeness and accuracy.
- Verify totals, figures, and calculations on current and past tax forms to confirm accuracy and consistency.
- Prepare and file tax returns using electronic filing software and related financial record software.
- Apply a solid working knowledge of accounting and financial statement preparation to support accurate tax reporting.
- Maintain confidentiality of all client financial information and documentation.
- Manage workload to meet deadlines, ensuring all assigned tax returns are completed and filed in a timely manner.
- Take ownership of assigned work, proactively identifying issues, resolving discrepancies, and escalating complex matters when necessary.
- Provide constructive feedback and coaching to colleagues when appropriate to help others grow and improve.
- Communicate with clients in a personable and professional manner, clarifying information and answering questions related to their tax returns.
- Utilize QuickBooks and Excel to organize, analyze, and reconcile financial data used in tax preparation.
- Incorporate tax-related adjustments where applicable, leveraging experience with such adjustments when available.
Requirements
- At least 5 years of experience in tax preparation.
- Strong knowledge of income tax preparation for individuals and companies, including federal, state, and local codes.
- Proficiency in preparing simple to complex tax returns for individuals and small businesses.
- Solid working knowledge of accounting principles and financial statement preparation.
- Able to review and interpret income statements, expenditure documentation, and other financial records.
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy in calculations, documentation, and form completion.
- Strong reporting skills, including the ability to clearly document and present financial information.
- Commitment to confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive financial information.
- Proficiency with PC-based tools and financial record software.
- Advanced experience with QuickBooks.
- Advanced experience with Microsoft Excel.
- Strong general math skills relevant to tax preparation and financial analysis.
- Strong work ethic, with a proven ability to meet deadlines and manage time effectively.
- Accountable and driven mindset, with a willingness to take ownership of responsibilities.
- Highly organized approach to managing multiple returns and client files.
- Ability to work well under deadlines and handle time-sensitive tasks.
- Proactive mindset, anticipating needs and addressing issues before they escalate.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and a personable demeanor when interacting with clients and colleagues.
Qualifications
- Experience with tax-related adjustments is a plus.
- Ability to coach others and provide constructive feedback to support their professional growth.
- Comfort working with electronic filing software and other digital tax preparation tools.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to explain tax concepts and requirements to clients in an understandable way.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with team members while also working independently on assigned returns.