Tax Preparer Jobs in Arlington, TX
Tax preparers stay busy in Arlington, where a large population of families, small-business owners, and self-employed workers all need help filing each year. Texas has no state income tax, so local preparers focus on federal returns, small-business filings, and the many gig and contract workers across the DFW economy. Seasonal storefronts and year-round CPA firms both hire preparers heavily from January through April.
Current Tax Preparer Openings in Arlington, TX
Listings marked External are sponsored openings provided by the Jobs2Careers network.
Top Arlington Employers Hiring Tax Preparers
Tax roles in Arlington cluster in seasonal chains, CPA firms, and small business:
- H&R Block - multiple Arlington offices hiring seasonal tax preparers.
- Jackson Hewitt - storefront and retail-based tax prep positions.
- Liberty Tax - seasonal preparer roles across the city.
- Local CPA and accounting firms - year-round tax associates handling business and individual returns.
- Bookkeeping and tax service firms - small-business tax and filing support.
- Independent tax practices - enrolled agent and preparer roles.
Tax Preparer Salaries in Arlington
- Entry-level or seasonal preparer: about 30,000 to 42,000 dollars annualized, often hourly plus incentives during season.
- Experienced preparer (3 to 7 years): about 45,000 to 62,000 dollars.
- Enrolled agent or senior tax professional: about 65,000 to 85,000 dollars or more.
These are estimates that vary by employer and season. Seasonal roles often pay hourly with per-return bonuses, while credentialed preparers and enrolled agents earn more year-round at CPA firms.
How to Become a Tax Preparer in Arlington
Anyone who prepares federal returns for pay needs an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). Many start through tax-prep courses offered by chains like H&R Block or at Tarrant County College. To represent clients before the IRS, preparers can become an Enrolled Agent by passing the IRS Special Enrollment Examination, or become a CPA through the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy. No state license is required in Texas beyond the federal PTIN.
What the Job Involves
Tax preparers interview clients, gather income and deduction documents, prepare and file accurate federal returns, and advise on credits and liabilities. In Arlington, much of the work is concentrated in the January-to-April season, though CPA firms handle extensions, business filings, and planning year-round. Seasonal hours can be long during peak weeks.
Skills Employers Look For
- Knowledge of federal tax rules and forms
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Tax software proficiency
- Customer service and clear explanations
- IRS PTIN, and EA or CPA for advancement
Career Path and Advancement
Many Arlington preparers start seasonal, then build a returning client base and move into year-round roles. Earning the Enrolled Agent credential or a CPA opens the door to higher-paying tax accountant and advisory positions at local firms, or to running an independent practice.
Related Careers in Arlington
Tax preparers in Arlington often explore these related paths:
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a license to prepare taxes in Arlington?
You need an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) to prepare federal returns for pay. Texas has no additional state license. To represent clients before the IRS, you can become an Enrolled Agent or a CPA.
Is tax preparation a seasonal job in Arlington?
Often, yes. Many storefront roles at H&R Block, Jackson Hewitt, and Liberty Tax run January through April, while CPA firms keep tax staff year-round for business filings and planning.
How much do tax preparers make in Arlington?
Seasonal and entry-level preparers earn roughly 30,000 to 42,000 dollars annualized, while experienced preparers and enrolled agents can earn 65,000 to 85,000 dollars or more year-round.
How do I become an Enrolled Agent?
You pass the IRS Special Enrollment Examination covering individual and business tax, then maintain the credential with continuing education. It lets you represent clients before the IRS nationwide.
Does Texas having no income tax affect tax preparers?
It means Arlington preparers focus on federal returns and business filings rather than state income tax. There is still strong demand from families, small businesses, and self-employed workers.
Ready to apply? Browse all Tax Preparer jobs in Arlington, TX on LocalJobPage and apply today.