As a Steuerberater Hattingen you can help individuals and businesses minimize their tax liability through strategy and advice. You also prepare income tax returns and assist clients in dealing with the IRS. A career as a tax consultant requires extensive knowledge of complex financial laws and regulations. Successful tax consultants combine strategic thinking and problem-solving skills with an up-to-date understanding of all federal, state, and local taxes. Depending on the scope of your work, you may choose to pursue additional credentials to boost your professional standing and job opportunities.
If you’re interested in becoming a tax consultant, you can begin by earning an associate degree or bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or finance. Find internships and practicums while you’re in school to gain real-world experience that will help you launch your career. You can also secure an entry-level position in tax processing or planning to get your foot in the door. You can later pursue a master’s degree in accounting, taxation, or law to gain specialized expertise.
A career as a tax consultant offers stability and opportunities for advancement. The field is expected to continue growing as more businesses and individual taxpayers seek guidance on tax laws and filing requirements. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the average salary for a tax consultant is $62,613. However, your exact pay depends on your qualifications and the scope of your responsibilities.
Those who hire tax professionals to file their tax returns and answer complex questions often consider them experts in the field. Some tax consultants can even represent their clients before the IRS. In order to do so, they must obtain the enrolled agent credential from the IRS.
To become a tax consultant, you can earn an associate degree in accounting or business, or complete a bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or accounting. Undergraduate programs typically offer focused curriculums in these fields. Graduate programs in taxation provide an opportunity to build targeted knowledge, and you can apply this knowledge to your professional practice.
Many successful tax strategists have started their careers as certified public accountants or tax attorneys. These roles require a higher level of education and training and offer more lucrative opportunities. You can use these experiences to guide your transition into a tax consultant career path.
The most important qualifications for a tax consultant include professional certification, education, and an in-depth understanding of tax codes and regulations. You must also be comfortable analyzing and organizing client data. You must also possess excellent verbal communication skills to relay information to your clients in a clear and understandable way. You must also have a strong work ethic, as you’ll likely work in an office setting and handle sensitive financial information.
A good way to find a reliable tax consultant is to get referrals from friends and family members who have used one in the past. Otherwise, you can search online for qualified professionals in your area. Be sure to verify the credentials of any potential consultant you interview and check their references.