Tax Preparer resume example
What makes this resume great
This resume is a great example for a Tax Preparer because it demonstrates a clear career progression from Junior to Senior Tax Preparer, shows experience with reputable firms, and highlights relevant technical and soft skills. The candidate lists specific tax software proficiency and strong client communication abilities, both crucial for the role. The education section is directly related to the field, and the resume is well-organized, making it easy for employers to quickly assess qualifications. The inclusion of metrics and achievements would further strengthen the resume.
Resume summary examples for Tax Preparer
Example #1
Strong Summary
Detail-oriented Senior Tax Preparer with 8+ years of experience preparing individual and business tax returns, specializing in IRS regulations and tax planning. Proven track record of maximizing client refunds and ensuring compliance using advanced tax software. Excellent communicator skilled in building client trust and managing high-volume workloads during peak tax season.
Weak Summary
I have worked as a tax preparer for several years and am familiar with tax returns. I am good with clients and know how to use tax software.
Example #2
Strong Summary
Experienced Tax Preparer with a Bachelor’s in Accounting and a history of delivering accurate, timely tax filings for diverse clients. Adept at leveraging Drake and ProSeries software to streamline processes and minimize errors.
Weak Summary
I have an accounting degree and have done taxes for different people. I can use some tax software.
Example #3
Strong Summary
Results-driven professional with expertise in tax preparation, IRS compliance, and client advisory services. Recognized for attention to detail and ability to resolve complex tax issues efficiently.
Weak Summary
I pay attention to details and can help with tax problems. I have experience in tax preparation.
Resume achievement examples for Tax Preparer
Example #1
Strong Achievement
Prepared and filed over 1,200 individual and small business tax returns annually with a 98% accuracy rate, resulting in a 15% increase in client retention at H&R Block.
Weak Achievement
Prepared many tax returns and helped keep clients happy.
Example #2
Strong Achievement
Trained and supervised a team of 5 junior tax preparers, reducing average processing time per return by 20% during peak season at Liberty Tax Service.
Weak Achievement
Helped train new staff and made the process faster.
Example #3
Strong Achievement
Identified and corrected discrepancies in client tax documents, saving clients an average of $2,500 per year in potential penalties at Smith & Associates Accounting.
Weak Achievement
Found mistakes in tax documents and helped clients avoid penalties.
Essential skills for a Tax Preparer
- Tax Preparation
- IRS Regulations
- Tax Planning
- Client Communication
- Data Entry
- Tax Software (Drake, ProSeries)
- Problem Solving
- Attention to Detail
- Time Management
- Microsoft Excel
Resume best practices
Tailor Your Resume for a Tax Preparer
Customize your resume for the specific position you're applying for. Use keywords from the job description and highlight the most relevant experience.
Keep It Concise and Focused
Ideally, your resume should be one page (two if you have extensive experience). Focus on achievements and essential information and avoid fluff.
Use a Clean, Professional Format
Stick to a simple layout with consistent font, spacing, and section headings. Use bullet points for readability. Avoid overly decorative fonts or colors.
Start with a Strong Summary
Write a compelling summary or objective at the top that briefly outlines your background, key skills, and what you bring to being a Tax Preparer.
Emphasize Achievements Over Duties
Use bullet points to describe what you accomplished as a Tax Preparer, not just what you were responsible for. Include measurable results when possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 25% in six months").
Use Action Verbs
Start bullet points with strong action verbs like "Led," "Developed," "Improved," "Streamlined," to convey impact and ownership.
Highlight Skills and Tools
Create a dedicated skills section that includes technical tools, software, or soft skills relevant to being a Tax Preparer (e.g., Excel, Python, CRM systems, leadership, communication).
Include Education and Certifications
List your educational background and any relevant certifications or ongoing courses. Mention GPA if it’s strong (generally above 3.5) and you're early in your career.
Proofread Carefully
Avoid spelling or grammatical errors since they can be deal-breakers. Ask someone else to review your resume or use tools like Grammarly.