By Colleen Watson

Death and taxes are the only two things that we can be certain of in this lifetime. That gives us a clear idea of where we can find work. Obviously, there are employment opportunities in tax preparation.

Every year each of us must file our personal income tax forms. Some people like to do their own tax forms. Others know that hiring a professional is a better use of their resources. It takes a great deal of knowledge to file taxes correctly, making this a skill that is in demand.

Education

There are a number of ways to become a tax professional. H&R Block offers classroom training every fall. National Tax and Professional Career Development Institute offer home-study courses. The costs vary between $200 and $660 to become certified as a tax preparer. In addition, many companies will hire and train you on the job.

Why Become a Tax Preparer?

• It's a respected profession - because it enables you to help virtually any adult citizens fulfill their obligations as taxpayers.
• It's a satisfying profession - thanks to the personal rewards of advising and assisting people.
• It's a dependable profession - in good times or bad. Everyone has to file taxes.
• It's a profitable profession - capable of producing a quick financial return for the time, money and effort expended.
• It's a flexible profession - you can work as much or as little as you wish. Your schedule can fit your life goals and obligations.

What kind of skills does one need to become a tax preparer? According to Lee Roehl, enrolled agent and owner of ROR Financial Services, Inc., basic tax training is good but does not make a complete tax preparer. When hiring, he looks for the following: common sense, math ability, an inquisitive mind, problem solving ability and a warm personality. Actually, one can get hired as a tax preparer without any specific training. There are no licensing requirements in this industry, but as a tax preparer your name will appear on the filed taxes you complete for your clients. If the IRS audits one of your customers, you will need to defend your work. The best idea is to take the classes offered. To keep up on changes in the tax laws, refresher course are also a good idea.

What can you do with your tax preparation experience?

• You can have a lucrative second income in your spare time.
• You can open your own full-time tax service business. This is a very inexpensive way to become an entrepreneur.
• Tax preparation experience can lead to a well-paid career with a tax preparation firm, or in corporate tax work, management and training. The only clear negative to a tax preparation career is the seasonal nature of the business. I guess this is a little like being a professional athlete. During the season you work very hard, and the rest of the year you can enjoy your time off.