Tax Preparers Salary 2025: $54,920 Median, 4.5% Growth, and How to Get Started
Tax preparers in the U.S. earn a median salary of $54,920, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical range runs from $33,760 at the 10th percentile to $99,270 at the 90th. Mean annual pay is $60,930, or about $26 per hour. With 76,480 people employed in the occupation and a projected growth rate of 4.5% from 2024-2034, the field is expanding faster than average.
How much Tax Preparers earn
The national median salary for tax preparers is $54,920. That means half earn more and half earn less. The mean hourly wage is roughly $26. The bottom 10% make around $33,760, while the top 10% bring in more than $99,270. Experience, certifications, and location drive these differences. Many tax preparers work seasonally, which can affect annual earnings.
No state-by-state breakdown is available for every state, but the highest-paying states for tax preparers are New York ($71,850), California ($70,030), Utah ($66,720), Montana ($63,080), and Missouri ($62,780). The lowest-paying states include Alabama ($33,280), Hawaii ($34,720), and Arkansas ($35,040).
Pay by state
Location matters for tax preparer salaries. The highest-paying states are New York ($71,850), California ($70,030), Utah ($66,720), Montana ($63,080), and Missouri ($62,780). These states tend to have higher costs of living or stronger demand for tax services. On the lower end, Arkansas ($35,040), Hawaii ($34,720), and Alabama ($33,280) pay the least. Before moving for a job, consider how cost of living and state tax policies affect real income.
How to become Tax Preparer
You don't necessarily need a college degree. The most common path is to earn a high school diploma or equivalent, then obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) from the IRS. Many tax preparers also complete a training course (often 60-80 hours) offered by tax preparation franchises, community colleges, or professional organizations. Some states require additional licensing or registration; check your state's requirements. To advance, tax preparers may pursue certifications like the IRS Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) or the more rigorous Enrolled Agent (EA) credential.
Here are the typical steps to become a tax preparer:
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for a PTIN through the IRS website.
- Complete a tax preparation training course (online or in-person).
- Gain experience, often through a tax firm or franchise, or by volunteering at VITA.
- Consider obtaining the AFSP record of completion or enroll as an Enrolled Agent to expand career options.
Job outlook
Employment of tax preparers is projected to grow 4.5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 10,400 openings each year, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the field. Tax code changes and the growing complexity of tax laws maintain steady demand. However, automation and tax software may slow growth somewhat, so those with strong client service skills and advanced credentials will have the best prospects.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a tax preparer make per hour?
The mean hourly wage for tax preparers is about $26, according to BLS data.
Do tax preparers need a license?
All paid tax preparers need a PTIN from the IRS. Some states require additional licenses. The AFSP certificate or Enrolled Agent credential can boost credibility.
Is tax preparation a good career?
With a median salary of $54,920 and faster-than-average job growth, it's a stable career path. Seasonal work can be a downside, but many preparers work full-time during tax season and part-time off-season.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Tax Preparers data.