Tip for those just starting their tax career
Hey all - I’m a JD/EA that made a career pivot to tax from a completely unrelated field about 4 years ago. I see a lot of folks here plugging the franchises (HRB, Liberty, etc) to get tax experience. This is a great way to start and I’m not knocking it.
The truth is you do need to start from the bottom, whether you’re switching careers or just getting started.
I’d recommend looking for tax/accounting support roles at small/midsize CPA firms in your area. I was a tax and accounting assistant at a small firm for ~ 2.5 years before I branched out. I did a lot of admin work at the beginning. Scheduling appointments, answering phones, alphabetizing returns in the file room, etc. Over time, I was assigned basic 1040s to prep. Then 1040s with schedule Cs/Es. And eventually, business returns. I was taught the basics of bookkeeping, and by the end of my time there I was responsible for several companies quarterly reconciliations. I also did new client intake to gauge tax and accounting needs and gave brief tax advice where appropriate.
I’ve moved on and work in tax controversy now, but the experience I gained working in a full service accounting firm was invaluable to my career. Having CPA firm experience on your resume also looks a lot better to serious employers.
Also, just a note: while I worked for the CPA firm, I straight up asked for harder tasks, or to take the first whack at projects I was interested in. A C-Corp referral came in? I asked to prep the return first for feedback. Partners took on a client with a weird ass tax issue? I asked to sit in and take notes. Make sure to advocate for yourself.
Anyway - just my two cents.