Every tax season, millions of Georgia residents face the annual challenge of filing their returns. And many turn to professional tax preparers for help. If you’re detail-oriented and enjoy helping people solve problems, tax prep could offer you a rewarding career path with flexible scheduling and solid earning potential.
The path to becoming a tax preparer in Georgia may be simpler than you think. You just need the right training, a federal ID number, and a willingness to learn the ropes.
This guide will show you how to become a tax preparer in Georgia, covering training costs, top programs, and career outlook.
Key Points
- To legally prepare tax returns in Georgia, you only need a preparer tax identification number (PTIN) from the IRS. No state licensing or continuing education is required.
- Although Georgia doesn’t mandate training, it’s essential for accuracy and client trust. Free programs like Intuit Academy and the IRS Link & Learn Taxes program can be good starting points.
- Many tax preparers start seasonally but advance into year-round roles by offering quarterly filings or tax planning services.
- Remote work makes it easier than ever to launch a tax prep career without opening a storefront.
- Career paths are flexible. You can work for a firm, go solo, or specialize over time with advanced credentials like an enrolled agent (EA) or certified public accountant (CPA) designation.
Georgia Tax Preparer Essentials
Assuming you have the proper training foundation, you only need a PTIN from the IRS to get started with tax prep in Georgia. This is a federal requirement for all paid tax preparers, no matter your state. The application is simple and entirely online.
Georgia doesn’t require a state license or certification to become a tax preparer. You don’t necessarily need a college degree, either. That said, completing a comprehensive tax course or other structured training is one of the best ways to build your skills and credibility.
Georgia also doesn’t mandate continuing education for tax preparers. The only ongoing requirement is renewing your PTIN with the IRS each year. That makes the state a low-barrier place to launch a career or side hustle in tax prep.
Training Options and Certifications
Just because Georgia doesn’t require a license doesn’t mean you should skip training. Training is what sets professionals apart. It builds confidence, prevents costly mistakes, and can make all the difference in winning clients or landing jobs.
So, where do you begin?
Local colleges often offer short-term tax prep or bookkeeping courses. Some are in person and some online, giving you options based on which learning format works best for you. And some connect to broader credentials, like the Chartered Tax Professional (CTP) program offered through Georgia Southern University.
You might also find accelerated boot camps or evening classes through adult education centers across the state.
If flexibility is your priority, online programs make it easy to get started from home. Options perfect for first-time preparers or anyone brushing up on their skills include:
If you’re thinking longer term, certifications like the IRS Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) can help boost your career by giving you exposure on the IRS directory of tax professionals.
Advanced credentials like enrolled agent (EA) or certified public accountant (CPA) status can unlock year-round work and higher earning potential. An EA is a tax specialist authorized by the IRS to represent clients in audits and other tax matters, while a CPA is a licensed accounting professional who handles tax and broader financial services like audits and business consulting.
Wherever your career path in tax prep might take you, continuous professional development and the right tools will help you unlock higher earning potential and new opportunities.
Is Tax Prep Seasonal or Year-Round?
The tax prep season runs from January to April, but there’s still plenty of work to go around once the season slows down.
Small business clients often need quarterly tax filings, sales tax reports, or 1099 prep year-round. Other clients might need help with amended returns, tax planning, or dealing with IRS notices, even in the offseason. Gig workers, retirees, and people facing life changes—like marriage, divorce, or inheritance—keep tax specialists in steady demand throughout the year.
So, while yes, tax prep has a busy season, it doesn’t have to be a part-time gig.
What It Costs to Start
Here’s what your startup costs might look like:
- PTIN registration: $19.75, paid annually to the IRS. This is your official ID number as a tax preparer.
- Training: Costs vary widely. Free options like Link & Learn Taxes or the Intuit Academy Tax certificate are great for beginners. Paid programs, such as the CTP track offered by Georgia Southern and other colleges, can cost upward of $2,000 to $3,000. Other national tax brands also offer introductory classes at little to no cost.
- Tax software: If you’re striking out on your own, you’ll likely need professional-grade software. Entry-level packages can start at around $1,700 per year for a one-person setup, but many offer free trials or pay-per-return options to lower your upfront risk.
- Additional costs: Depending on how you structure your practice, you may need a local business license, liability insurance, and marketing materials to attract clients.
Local Job Options for Tax Prep Work
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), tax preparers in Georgia earn an average annual salary of $45,590, which translates to a range between $29,990 and $65,380. That number may skew toward the lower end for those in entry-level roles at firms or franchises.
If you’re more entrepreneurial, you can build your own client base and run a solo practice from home. Plenty of tax professionals in Georgia start small and grow into full-time businesses through referrals. This path takes more hustle but gives you more control over your schedule and pricing.
Some tax professionals even take the next step by pursuing a CPA license, which opens doors to more complex work and higher earning potential.
Remote roles through platforms such as TurboTax Live are another option, letting you serve clients across the country from your home office. These roles come with built-in tools, tech support, and training, which can be a huge win if you’re just starting out or switching careers.
Not Sure if Tax Prep’s for You? FAQs Answered
Can tax preparers prepare tax returns in multiple states?
Yes. Once you have a valid PTIN from the IRS, you can legally prepare federal tax returns for clients in any state. But state returns are different. Some states, like California, New York, and Oregon, require additional registration or licensing. Georgia does not.
Is tax preparation work seasonal or year-round?
While most work happens between January and April, many tax preparers stay busy year-round. You can offer services like amended returns, quarterly filings, and small business support to keep income coming in beyond tax season.
How much can I expect to earn as a tax preparer?
In Georgia, annual earnings for tax preparers typically range from $29,990 to $65,380, according to the BLS. Of course, that depends on your experience, credentials, and workload. Those who work year-round or hold certifications like enrolled agent status often earn more.
Are there continuing education requirements for tax preparers?
Georgia doesn’t require continuing education for tax preparers. However, many professionals complete training each year, especially if they’re working toward the IRS Annual Filing Season Program or other advanced credentials.
Can you work from home as a tax preparer?
Absolutely. Many tax preparers in Georgia work remotely using secure cloud-based software. Platforms like TurboTax Live even let you serve clients nationwide without leaving your home office.
Apply for Tax Preparer Roles at Intuit
If you’re ready to start your career in tax prep, Intuit is actively hiring. As a TurboTax Live expert, you’ll help real people file with confidence, all while working from home, on your schedule, and with the tools you need to grow.
Whether you’re starting out as a tax preparer in Atlanta or elsewhere in Georgia, remote roles make a solid entry point. You’ll get access to real-time training, support from experienced peers, and a chance to build a flexible, rewarding career on your terms.
Apply now with Intuit and take the next step toward becoming a tax pro.