A part-time tax preparer helps individuals or businesses file accurate, timely tax returns, often during the busiest months of the year. This work is available in both remote and local in-person settings, making it ideal as a side gig or seasonal role.
Starting a tax preparer side hustle can be a great entry point into finance for beginners or a smart way for experienced pros to earn extra income. You don’t need a formal degree to start, and the skills you gain can translate into other career opportunities.
With the right steps, you can turn seasonal work into a steady source of income. In this guide, you’ll find out how to become a seasonal tax preparer (and the benefits).
Key points
- Becoming a part-time tax preparer offers flexible, seasonal work that can boost your income without requiring a degree.
- Learning tax prep basics and securing a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) are the first steps in building credibility.
- Certifications like enrolled agent (EA) can expand career opportunities.
- Part-time tax preparer jobs range from freelancing to working with established firms.
- With experience, a tax preparer side hustle can grow into full-time employment.
Benefits of being a part-time or seasonal tax preparer
There are so many good reasons to take on the role of a part-time tax preparer. Knowing what’s most important to you will help you choose the right direction. Here are some of the benefits of part-time tax prep work:
- Extra income. Adding money to your monthly budget is compelling motivation. Especially if you can do it without taking on a full-time commitment.
- Schedule flexibility. Part-time hours often fit better around other commitments, whether that’s parenting, caregiving, volunteering, schooling, personal projects, or professional pursuits.
- Remote or in-person work. You may want to avoid a long commute, maintain steady work, or remain free to move or travel. Being “location independent” is a draw for many. On the flip side, working in a local office or firm allows you to build face-to-face relationships with clients and colleagues. For many, this on-site interaction is a great way to serve their local community and build a network of professional contacts. Part-time tax preparers typically have the option to do either.
- Skill development. Tax preparation is a dynamic and wide-ranging practice; there’s always more to learn. Those at the beginning of their careers can gain valuable knowledge and the necessary skills to interact with clients successfully.
- Experience in service. If you’re winding down your career or already retired, part-time tax prep can be an excellent way to stay busy while using your experience and skills to serve clients and colleagues.
These benefits all add up to one key advantage: accessibility. Becoming a part-time tax preparer is a low-barrier way to enter the field without committing to a full-time role. Along the way, you can build real-world experience with client service and tax law. It’s a chance to earn while testing the waters, and decide if a longer-term career in tax is right for you.
How to start your tax preparer side hustle
Getting started in tax prep is more approachable than you might think, but it does take a few deliberate steps. Each one helps you build the knowledge and confidence you’ll need to support clients successfully. Here’s where to begin.
1. Learn tax prep basics
Before you take on clients, you’ll need a solid grasp of the core tasks tax preparers handle. This includes filing individual returns, interviewing clients to gather the right information, and using tax software to process and submit returns accurately.
You can learn these skills through free programs like the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which trains volunteers to prepare basic returns and work directly with taxpayers. Online courses or community college classes are other good options.
While no formal degree is required, accurate knowledge is essential; you’ll be working with sensitive financial data, and mistakes can be costly for your clients. Starting with a solid foundation will make the rest of your work easier and more rewarding.
2. Obtain your PTIN and IRS registrations
In the US, anyone who prepares or assists in preparing federal tax returns for compensation needs to obtain a PTIN. You can apply online through the IRS PTIN system, which usually takes less than 15 minutes. It must be renewed annually to stay active.
From there, you can learn as you work. Beyond the PTIN, be aware that some states also regulate paid tax preparers with additional licensing or education requirements. The IRS also offers a voluntary Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) for noncredentialed tax preparers. Completing it each year provides continuing education, reinforces your tax knowledge, and earns you a spot in the IRS public directory. And that makes it easier for potential clients to find you. It’s a simple way to boost credibility and stand out in a competitive market.
3. Get certified
At some point, you may want to earn your enrolled agent (EA) credential. This designation isn’t required, but it means you can represent any taxpayer before the IRS, qualifying you for more advanced positions. You shouldn’t need additional credentials if you are already a current certified public accountant (CPA) or practicing tax attorney.
Earning the EA credential involves passing the 3-part Special Enrollment Examination (SEE), which covers individual and business tax returns and IRS representation procedures. Once certified, you’ll have unlimited practice rights with the IRS, meaning you can represent clients in audits, appeals, and collections. Even if you don’t plan to work in those areas immediately, the credential builds client trust and can open doors to higher-paying, year-round work.
As you advance in your career, there are other options available, like pursuing certifications from professional associations like the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) or the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA). These organizations offer advanced tax training in small business taxation or retirement planning.
Specialized training in niche areas, like real estate, agriculture, or nonprofit taxation, can also help you stand out and attract specific types of clients.
4. Choose your work model
If you’re interested in a part-time tax preparer role, the next step is to apply to an organization that fits your needs and values. You can branch out on your own or work with a company. Signing on with a larger tax firm enables you to focus on the tax work itself, while also benefiting from team support and established systems.
Some preparers prefer the independence of freelancing—setting their own rates and building a client base from scratch. Others find stability in seasonal work with established firms, whether at a local office or through virtual platforms that connect you with remote clients.
Your work model will shape your daily routine and earning potential, so consider how much control you want over your schedule and income before deciding which format works best for you.
5. Secure your first position or client
Landing your first opportunity is often the most challenging part of becoming a part-time tax preparer, but there are plenty of ways to get started.
Volunteering with programs like VITA can give you hands-on experience and help you build confidence before taking on paying clients. Seasonal job boards, staffing agencies, and local classified ads can connect you with short-term or part-time roles.
If you go the freelance route, start by asking for referrals from friends and community contacts who might need help during tax season. From there, you can use more advanced strategies like paid social media ads, website optimization, and email marketing as your business grows.
Even small initial projects can lead to referrals and repeat business. Delivering accurate work on time and communicating clearly shows clients they can count on you. And that builds the trust that turns one-off assignments into long-term relationships.
6. Price your services
Setting the right rate is key to making your tax prep work sustainable. Most preparers will either charge by the hour or per project (per return). Start by researching the going rates in your area to get a better idea of pricing and payment structure. Be sure to factor in your experience level and credentials.
For reference, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that tax preparers earn a mean hourly wage of $27.96, with a median of $23.56 an hour.
If you’re new to the field, consider starting with competitive but modest rates to attract clients, then gradually increasing your fees as your skills and reputation grow. Be transparent with your pricing so clients know exactly what they’re paying for. Clear expectations make for smoother working relationships and fewer disputes down the line.
7. Build your niche and scale
Over time, focusing on a specific type of client or industry can set you apart from other tax preparers. Specializing in areas like rental property owners or small business clients enables you to develop deeper expertise and work more efficiently. That expertise can lead to fewer errors, higher-quality service, and stronger client loyalty.
A clear niche also makes marketing easier. You can tailor your messaging, join industry-specific groups, and network where your ideal clients spend time.
As your reputation grows, referrals will come more naturally, and you can raise your rates or expand your services beyond seasonal work. Scaling thoughtfully ensures you’re building a business that fits your goals, whether that means a steady part-time income or a thriving year-round practice.
Tips for success as a part-time tax preparer
The busiest weeks of tax season can feel intense, so having a plan makes all the difference. Break large workloads into smaller deadlines, batch similar tasks together, and set clear office hours, even if you work from home. This helps you stay focused and avoid burnout.
Strong client communication is just as important as technical skill. Keep clients informed about timelines, documents you need, and any changes in their return. And double-checking every return before you file reinforces reliability and helps you avoid costly errors.
Finally, stay current on tax law updates each year. Even small changes can affect your clients’ returns, and being the person who’s “in the know” keeps you credible and valuable in their eyes.
Get started as a part-time or seasonal tax preparer
Becoming a part-time tax preparer offers a flexible way to build valuable skills and help people navigate an important part of their financial lives. It doesn’t matter if you see it as a short-term side gig or build toward a long-term career. The experience you gain can open doors to new opportunities. If you’re ready to begin, explore Intuit tax preparer roles and see how you can start working with the tools and support of an expert team. Apply now to take the first step toward building your tax preparation career.
FAQs about tax preparation
What is the typical pay structure for part-time tax preparers?
Part‑time tax preparers typically charge by the hour or per return, and some earn on commission. According to the BLS, the mean hourly wage for tax preparers hovers around $28/hour, with the median near $24/hour. Per-return fees vary widely but can grow as you handle more complex filings or develop a steady client base.
How many hours should I expect to commit to a tax preparer side gig?
Your workload depends on the season and your work model. During peak tax season (January to April), part-time preparers might work anywhere from 10 to 25 hours a week. Outside those months, hours may drop significantly unless you also handle bookkeeping or other year-round financial services.
Can a part-time tax preparer work lead to full-time employment?
Yes, many preparers start part-time and transition into full-time roles. Building a solid client list, gaining certifications, and demonstrating reliability can open the door to steady, year-round work. Some professionals move into full-time positions with tax firms, while others grow their own practice into a primary source of income.
Do I have to work in person or remotely?
Many opportunities exist for both on-site and remote tax preparers. Companies like Intuit offer various roles both in person and remotely. Local accounting firms or tax offices often hire for in-person seasonal positions during tax season. You can choose the work environment that best suits your preference for collaboration and client interaction.