What Kind of Certification Should I Get to Be a Tax Return Preparer?

Once you are sure you want to be a tax return preparer you should strongly consider some type of professional licensure. It's a big step, but it lets your clients know you are serious and dedicated. You don't necessarily need it to get started, especially if your clients are family and friends, or if you are working for someone else, under their license or certification.

In my opinion, it may be easier to study for these exams once you have some actual tax preparation experience under your belt. You'll already be familiar with some of the terms and issues, so it will be easier to digest the volumes of material you'll be tested on.

The two most highly regarded licenses are "Enrolled Agent," and Certified Public Accountant.

Click here to find out the benefits of each and why the CPA license can put you at a disadvantage in certain circumstances.

Should I Become A Tax Return Preparer?

Are you thinking about becoming a tax return preparer? Maybe you aren't sure if it's for you. Or maybe you aren't sure how to go about it. Maybe you're looking for ideas or for confirmation that starting a tax preparation business is a good idea. I'm sure this website will be a good resource for you.

What is a Tax Return Preparer?

Most people think a tax return preparer is a nerdy person stuck in a dreary office with a computer working long hours from mid January through April 15th and churning out Federal Income Tax Returns for H and R Block or for a CPA firm.

This is a stereotype that doesn't even come close to reality. That might be one way to get started in the profession, but it certainly isn't how you have to end up. Yes, you can make it a part-time business to help pay the bills while you pursue your "real" interest--and many do--but consider the possibilities for turning it into a full-time passion.

A competent professional tax return preparer has so many avenues to pursue that it can be hard to decide. But make no mistake, specialization is the key to being profitable. Here are just a couple of areas you could specialize in:

• Child Daycare businesses.
• Real Estate Investors
• Day Traders
• Nonprofit organizations (charities)
• Social Clubs

Click to read the rest of the article about becoming a tax return preparer