[Anonymous]

Hey everyone,

I’ve been at my job for nearly 2 years. I work in an A/P department performing A/P responsibilities, becoming familiar with sales tax laws as applicable in various states, and reconciling certain accounts.

I received my CPA license earlier this year but since it’s a private company, it’s not nearly as “cherished” as it would if I went to public. Just a pat on the back from my superiors but whatever I’m happy with the company overall. I haven’t decided to leave yet but I won’t close the door on better opportunities.

Anyway, I was thinking of becoming a tax preparer just as something to do on the side for extra income (and put my CPA to use). I don’t deal with any returns at all in my position and my company is pretty large (thousands employed). I want to help individuals and small businesses instead. I have 1 season of VITA experience and that was prior to the tax law change.

What is the best route for me to get experience to perform tax returns? I could do another season of VITA but they don’t deal with individuals with high income or any businesses.

I’m thinking about applying at a tax firm but it would have to be part-time only. Does anyone have experience with that? Would they even hire me part-time? Am I expected to bring in clients? I want to get experience performing the work but sales is not my strong suit. Remember I want to keep my full-time job focusing as a Financial Accountant/Analyst and prepare taxes on the side. Not looking to make a big business out of it (but hey things can change)

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Recked]

I think most tax firms would eat this up as they always need help during tax season, but don't want the commitment of a full time employee with benefits.
As long as you could potentially be available during the hours they would have available to train and provide you with basic work to start, it should be a great fit/match.
As a part time entry level you would not be expected to bring in clients or sell anything.
More than likely you would not even be meeting any clients for the first couple years.

If all else fails with a CPA firm, you can do part time at H&R Block or similar franchises to learn the ropes a bit, but I would aim higher so you learn correctly.

[Tncincy]

Hey congrats on the license. I agree with Recked, go for it. There are not enough professionals that could hinder your adventure, High is the goal.

It begins with a 75
Been here too long as a cheerleader....ready to pass

[CC]

Hi again everyone,

It seems the site purged my account (I started this thread). I still have a few more questions.

@Recked thanks fo your response. You mentioned I wouldn't be expected to bring clients which sounds good. What do you think the general responsibilities would be? I guess the position I would be looking is Tax Associate/Assistant? I think my first approach to apply to email the firms on their websites (even if they're not advertising an opening). In regards to pay, what would be an acceptable range? I live in NJ. I also know not to expect to earn what the staff in the firm are making since this is PT.

Has anyone done this part-time work during tax season? I usually get out of work at 5 and I'm guessing during tax season firms are still working until the evening so I'm fine with that. Do you think it would be detrimental if I couldn't work 5 to 6 days of the week?

@Tcincy thanks. Hope to make the most of this license.

[Author]

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