What does a Tax Preparer do?

According to people in this career, the main tasks are...

TaskImportance
Compute taxes owed or overpaid, using adding machines or personal computers, and complete entries on forms, following tax form instructions and tax tables.
95%
Use all appropriate adjustments, deductions, and credits to keep clients' taxes to a minimum.
94%
Interview clients to obtain additional information on taxable income and deductible expenses and allowances.
91%
Furnish taxpayers with sufficient information and advice to ensure correct tax form completion.
91%
Prepare or assist in preparing simple to complex tax returns for individuals or small businesses.
90%
Review financial records, such as income statements and documentation of expenditures to determine forms needed to prepare tax returns.
89%
Check data input or verify totals on forms prepared by others to detect errors in arithmetic, data entry, or procedures.
87%
Explain federal and state tax laws to individuals and companies.
84%
Answer questions and provide future tax planning to clients.
84%
Consult tax law handbooks or bulletins to determine procedures for preparation of atypical returns.
84%
Calculate form preparation fees according to return complexity and processing time required.
81%
Schedule appointments with clients.
75%