Tax Preparers

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median annual income for tax preparers was approximately $43,080 in May 2019. Salaries ranged from less than $21,750 to more than $87,060 annually. Incomes vary widely, however, due to a number of factors.

Tax preparers generally charge a fee per tax return, which may range from $30 to $1,500 or more, depending on the complexity of the return and the preparation time required. The number of clients a preparer has, as well as the difficulty of the returns, can affect the preparer's income. The amount of education a tax preparer has also affects their income. Seasonal or part-time employees, typically those with less education, usually earn minimum wage plus commission. Enrolled agents, certified public accountants, and other professional preparers, typically those with college degrees or more, usually charge more.

Fees also vary widely in different parts of the country. Tax preparers in large cities and in the western United States generally charge more, as do those who offer year-round financial advice and services.