Tax Collector

Your Fit

Income

$55K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

0.6%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Tax Collector?

A Tax Collector is responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of local, state, or federal governments. They ensure compliance with tax regulations and are involved in the assessment, collection, and recording of tax payments.

Sample job titles:

Revenue Agent, Tax Collector, Tax Compliance Officer, Tax Examiner

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Tax Collector.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Tax Collector earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Tax Collector.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$35K per year	$44K per year	$55K per year	$69K per year	$78K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $10K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Tax Collector do?

Work environment

Tax Collectors typically work in government offices, dealing directly with taxpayers either in person, over the phone, or via electronic communication. Their work environment can be fast-paced, especially around tax deadlines. They may also conduct fieldwork, visiting businesses or residences for collection-related matters.

Quick task list

Issues tax bills and collects payments from individuals and businesses.
Keeps accurate records of collected taxes and maintains taxpayer accounts.
Implements tax collection policies and procedures.
Works with taxpayers to set up payment plans for outstanding debts.
Ensures compliance with tax laws and regulations.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Property Tax Collection: Focusing on the collection of property taxes from homeowners and businesses.
Income Tax Collection: Specializing in collecting state and federal income taxes.
Delinquent Account Management: Managing and collecting overdue tax accounts.
Taxpayer Services: Providing assistance and information to taxpayers regarding tax obligations.
Auditing and Compliance: Ensuring the accuracy of tax collection and adherence to tax laws.

Description

Tax Collectors play a vital role in the functioning of government by ensuring that taxes are collected efficiently and accurately. They must have a strong understanding of tax laws and be able to apply these laws to various tax collection scenarios. The role requires attention to detail and the ability to handle large volumes of financial information and records accurately.

Interpersonal skills are important, as Tax Collectors interact with taxpayers, addressing their questions and concerns. They must be able to communicate complex tax information clearly and effectively, and also possess negotiation skills for dealing with delinquent accounts.

The occupation requires integrity and the ability to handle sensitive information confidentially. Tax Collectors must be fair and consistent in their application of tax laws, ensuring that all taxpayers are treated equitably.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a key role in the financial management of government resources.
The challenge of working with complex tax codes and regulations.
The opportunity to assist and educate taxpayers about their tax responsibilities.

You might make a good Tax Collector if you are...

Detail-oriented, with a strong ability to manage financial records and data.
Skilled in communication, capable of explaining tax laws and policies clearly.
Ethical and fair, with a strong sense of integrity.
Good at problem-solving and negotiation, especially in resolving payment issues.
Interested in government operations and public service.

Pros:

Stable career in public service with the government.
Opportunities to interact with a wide range of people.
Intellectual challenge of working with complex tax codes.

Cons:

Dealing with stressed or upset taxpayers can be challenging.
High responsibility and need for accuracy in handling financial information.
The job can be repetitive and requires strict adherence to procedures and laws.

How to become a Tax Collector

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is usually required, which is about 4 years of post-secondary education. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in lieu of a formal degree.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics for strong numerical skills.
Government or Civics to understand the role of taxation in society.
Business Studies to gain a basic understanding of finance and accounting.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in student government to understand public administration.
Joining debate or public speaking clubs to develop communication skills.
Volunteering for community service to experience public service roles.

Preparation after high school

Earning a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
Internships or entry-level positions in government offices or financial departments.
Certifications in accounting or tax preparation can be beneficial.

More resources

National Tax Association - Provides resources and information on taxation policy and practice.
American Academy of Tax Practice - Offers training and certification for tax professionals.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Provides comprehensive information on federal tax laws and regulations.
Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) - Offers resources and training for public finance professionals.
Federation of Tax Administrators - A resource for state tax administrators and practitioners.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.