Anybody work during tax season?
Just wondering if anyone works for one of the large (or not so large) chains as a tax preparer during the busy season. How much does it pay? Do you have to pay for the tax preparation course out of your own pocket?
Forum Discussion
- For several years I have worked seasonally as a tax preparer for a franchisee of one of the major tax preparation companies. This franchisee employs about 200 preparers working at 21 locations.
This franchisee pays commission with a minimum base of $10 per hour. The first year I was only paid base, but I have exceeded base pay every year since. I have enjoyed providing services to my returning clients and currently have a client base of about 300 customers.
I paid for my original training course out-of-pocket. I don't recall the cost, but at the time, it seemed to be a reasonable fee even if I wasn't hired because of all I learned to help with my own tax returns. Tax preparers must be registered with the IRS and there are annual training requirements (and an annual fee of course). Also, some states require registration and training.
Since being hired, I have access to a plethora of training classes both online and in classrooms for an annual fee of $20.
In addition to tax preparers, I know some offices hire people to be receptionists and preform clerical-data entry tasks.
Overall, I find the experience satisfying. It helps keep my mind active and the season is usually over before I've grown tired of having a JOB! The extra spending money helps me enjoy retirement the rest of the year.
