To delegate or not to delegate? When to seek help at a small business accounting firm

When a person starts a small business accounting firm, sometimes it feels like they’re juggling sticks that are on fire. There’s always too much to do for just one person, but you may be scared your employees will get burned if you hand off too much responsibility.

 

But, boy, can the fire get hot if you’re juggling too much! At Universal Accounting School, we’ve seen the toll that taking on too much leaves on business owners as we’ve helped them start small business accounting firms. Our team of coaches, many of whom started successful firms of their own, struggled with the pressure of doing it all.

 

Don’t get left holding on to the heat. Owners who struggle to delegate tasks and outsource work may feel like they are unable to take a break. This can lead to feelings of burnout and a lack of work-life balance, impacting their physical and mental health. Here are some ways to build trust with your team and pass on key tasks with confidence.

 

1. Don’t micromanage

It’s hard for employees to build confidence at your small business accounting firm if you’re always checking over their shoulder to see how they’re doing. They’ll work more slowly if they feel like  they need their boss to sign off on everything they do and worse, they may feel frozen if they’re stuck on a task and do nothing if you’re too busy to guide them.

 

Micromanaging can build a frustrating dynamic for your employees and showing your confidence in them by leaving them alone to work on an assigned task (even if they don’t perform it exactly as you expected them to) will strengthen your relationship so you can trust them with more.

 

2. Train and retrain

We all know the old adage about teaching a man to fish versus giving a man a fish, but in the world of small business accounting firms, sometimes CEOs feel like it’s just simpler to do the fishing themselves.

 

You can’t always train everyone on everything they need to know, but setting time aside to ensure that employees have the training they need to carry out their responsibilities will make things run smoother over the long run. Don’t be afraid to revisit training to clearly lay out your expectations for specific tasks. Your employees are juggling a lot, just like you, and a simple reminder of a training can be all it takes to make a project shine.

 

3. Empower employees

This suggestion is dependent on the amount of trust you can build with your employees. How can you empower them with more to handle if you don’t trust their performance in the first place? A great way to build trust is by recognizing and rewarding good performance. Invest in your employees’ success and they’ll be more likely to invest in yours.

 

Empowering your employees to take ownership of their work and make their own decisions can lead to innovations and growth that you never would have imagined. Build that trust for employees to go off script and be creative without potential backlash from the top.

 

4. Address poor performance with empathy

As much as we’d like to imagine that delegating tasks will always lead to a smoother operation at your small business accounting firm, eventually you’ll run into a situation where an employee lets you down on something you asked them to do. Remember, the goal is to make your life and their life easier by sharing responsibility, not for you to pile on if they’re already frustrated with their performance. That will only make it harder to work together in the future.

 

Take time to empathize with your employee and discuss solutions for the next opportunity you give them. Don’t berate them or belittle them for their slip up in front of other employees. You’ll build more office morale, and thus more confidence in handling the tasks you delegate, by treating your employees with respect and giving them specific strategies for improving when they slip up. No one has an infinite leash of course, but you’re more likely to get an employee back on track if you understand where they’re coming from.

 

5. Prioritize and outline

As you weigh what you need to delegate at your small business accounting firm, consider how you’ll lay out these tasks for your employees. If you’re going to give them new responsibilities, be sure to make it clear where that new ask fits in as a priority with the work they’re already doing. The point of delegating is not to pass off your burnout onto your employees by giving them to handle. It’s to create a healthy and uplifting environment for everyone who works at your firm.

 

Don’t leave any space for confusion when you ask an employee to take on a new assignment. Let them know what they should prioritize finishing before jumping on what you’ve asked them, or if you need them to drop everything and get to work. If you don’t, you may leave them feeling overwhelmed and confused.

 

The Universal Solution

Universal Accounting School has helped small business accounting firm owners get the most out of their companies since 1979. Universal specifically designs its online video instruction to help CEOs make their businesses sustainable without constant oversight from the top. Learn more on how you can build a better work-life balance for yourself by calling 877-801-8080 today, or schedule a time to discuss your future online by clicking here.

Bookkeeping Business

What Is a Bookkeeping Business and How Does It Work?

In today’s fast-paced business environment, maintaining accurate financial records is essential for success. This is where a bookkeeping business comes into play. But what exactly is a bookkeeping business, and how does it work? Whether you’re a small business owner looking to understand your options or considering a career as a bookkeeper, this article will shed light on the ins and outs of the bookkeeping industry, including modern trends like virtual bookkeeping, outsourced bookkeeping, and certifications like bookkeeping certification and QuickBooks certification courses.

Understanding a Bookkeeping Business

At its core, a bookkeeping business provides financial record-keeping services to individuals or companies. Bookkeepers handle the day-to-day recording of financial transactions such as sales, purchases, receipts, and payments. Unlike accountants who often deal with analysis and strategic planning, bookkeepers focus on maintaining accurate, up-to-date books that reflect the company’s financial activities.

A bookkeeping business can range from a solo operation run by an individual bookkeeper to a larger firm with multiple clients and specialized staff. Many small and medium-sized businesses rely on bookkeeping businesses to keep their finances organized, ensuring compliance with tax regulations and helping owners make informed decisions.

How Does a Bookkeeping Business Work?

Typically, a bookkeeping business operates by providing clients with tailored financial record-keeping services, which include:

  • Recording daily financial transactions
  • Managing accounts payable and receivable
  • Reconciling bank statements
  • Preparing financial reports such as profit and loss statements
  • Ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations
  • Managing payroll processing

Bookkeeping businesses usually bill clients either hourly, monthly, or per project, depending on the volume and complexity of work.

The Role of Technology

Technology has transformed bookkeeping significantly. Many bookkeeping businesses leverage cloud-based accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks, which streamline the bookkeeping process and allow real-time access to financial data. One growing trend is the rise of the virtual bookkeeper.

Virtual Bookkeeper: The New Norm

A virtual bookkeeper provides bookkeeping services remotely, using internet-based tools to communicate and manage financial records. This model allows bookkeeping businesses to serve clients across different locations without physical presence. Virtual bookkeeping offers several advantages:

  • Cost-Effective: Reduces overhead costs for both the bookkeeping business and clients.
  • Flexibility: Bookkeepers can work from anywhere, allowing for better work-life balance.
  • Access to Expertise: Businesses can hire highly specialized bookkeepers regardless of location.

Virtual bookkeepers typically use cloud-based platforms, making it easy for clients to share financial data securely and for bookkeepers to update records in real time.

Outsourced Bookkeeping: Why Businesses Choose It

For many businesses, especially startups and small companies, managing an in-house bookkeeping team isn’t feasible due to cost and resource constraints. This has fueled the growth of outsourced bookkeeping services, where companies hire external bookkeeping businesses to handle their financial records.

Outsourcing bookkeeping offers several benefits:

  • Cost Savings: Avoid expenses related to hiring, training, and maintaining in-house staff.
  • Expertise: Access to professional bookkeepers who are up-to-date with the latest accounting standards.
  • Focus on Core Business: Business owners can concentrate on growing their business rather than managing books.

Outsourced bookkeeping is often paired with virtual bookkeeping, allowing companies to access professional services flexibly and affordably.

Becoming a Bookkeeper: Importance of Certification

If you’re interested in starting your own bookkeeping business or working as a professional bookkeeper, obtaining formal certification can greatly enhance your credibility and skills.

Bookkeeping Certification

A bookkeeping certification is a professional credential that validates your knowledge and expertise in bookkeeping practices, accounting principles, and financial regulations. Certifications are offered by various professional bodies and typically cover:

  • Recording financial transactions
  • Preparing financial statements
  • Payroll management
  • Tax regulations
  • Accounting software proficiency

Having a bookkeeping certification can open doors to more clients and higher-paying opportunities, as it assures clients that you have the necessary skills to manage their finances accurately.

QuickBooks Certification Course

One of the most sought-after credentials in the bookkeeping world is the QuickBooks certification course. QuickBooks is a widely used accounting software, especially among small and medium-sized businesses. Being certified in QuickBooks demonstrates your proficiency in navigating the software’s features, including:

  • Setting up client accounts
  • Managing invoices and payments
  • Tracking expenses and income
  • Running financial reports

A QuickBooks certification can be a powerful selling point for your bookkeeping business, especially if you plan to work with businesses that rely heavily on this software.

Setting Up Your Own Bookkeeping Business

Starting a bookkeeping business today is more accessible than ever, thanks to digital tools and online learning resources. Here’s a simplified roadmap for launching your bookkeeping business:

  1. Gain Skills and Certification: Take courses on bookkeeping principles and accounting software like QuickBooks. Earn bookkeeping certification and QuickBooks certification to build your credentials.
  2. Define Your Services: Decide if you want to offer traditional bookkeeping, virtual bookkeeping, or outsourced bookkeeping services.
  3. Set Up Your Business: Register your business legally, create a website, and invest in essential software.
  4. Build Client Relationships: Network with small businesses, freelancers, and startups that may need bookkeeping help.
  5. Deliver Quality Work: Accuracy and timely financial reporting are key to client retention.
  6. Continuously Learn: Stay updated on tax laws, accounting standards, and software updates.

Why Bookkeeping Businesses Matter

Every business, regardless of size, needs to track its finances accurately. A reliable bookkeeping business ensures that financial records are not only accurate but also ready for tax filing, audits, and business planning. Without proper bookkeeping, companies risk penalties, cash flow issues, and poor decision-making.

Moreover, the rise of digital and remote services means bookkeeping businesses can now offer more flexible and scalable solutions to clients worldwide. The demand for skilled bookkeepers, especially those with certifications and QuickBooks expertise, continues to grow.

Final Thoughts

A bookkeeping business plays a critical role in the financial health of businesses by managing daily financial records and ensuring compliance. With advancements in technology, virtual bookkeepers and outsourced bookkeeping have become popular models, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

For those considering entering this field, obtaining a bookkeeping certification and completing a QuickBooks certification course are excellent ways to boost credibility and skill sets. Whether you’re a business owner seeking bookkeeping support or an aspiring bookkeeper, understanding how bookkeeping businesses work is the first step toward financial clarity and success.

Tax Preparer Certification

Why Tax Preparer Certification Matters More Than Ever in 2025

In 2025, the landscape of tax preparation is evolving faster than ever. With increasing complexities in tax laws, rising demand for financial accuracy, and the growing popularity of outsourced bookkeeping, the importance of professional qualifications like tax preparer certification has never been more critical. Whether you’re considering a career pivot to become a tax preparer or looking to enhance your existing skills with a tax preparer course, understanding why certification matters today can set you apart in a competitive market.

The Changing Face of Tax Preparation in 2025

The modern tax environment is shaped by multiple factors — rapid legislative changes, technological advancements, and a shifting economic landscape influenced by globalization and digital business models. Tax preparers must navigate these complexities to serve individuals and businesses effectively.

With businesses increasingly relying on outsourced bookkeeping to streamline their financial operations, tax preparers often depend on accurate, timely data from external sources. This makes the role of the tax preparer even more pivotal. Those with proper certification can confidently handle intricate tax issues, ensure compliance, and optimize client returns.

Why Tax Preparer Certification Is More Crucial Than Ever

1. Navigating Complex Tax Regulations

Tax codes evolve constantly, reflecting changes in government policy, economic conditions, and social priorities. For example, in recent years, new credits for green energy, digital economy taxes, and cryptocurrency regulations have emerged. Without a robust understanding of these changes, tax preparers risk errors that could lead to audits or penalties for their clients.

A tax preparer certification program teaches up-to-date tax law, ensuring that certified professionals remain current with all changes. This expertise builds client trust and helps protect against costly mistakes.

2. Increased Accountability and Professionalism

The IRS and other tax authorities have ramped up enforcement efforts, particularly around unregulated or untrained preparers. Certification acts as a credential that signals professionalism and adherence to ethical standards.

For those who want to become a tax preparer, investing in a certification shows a commitment to quality and compliance. It also helps to differentiate oneself in a market saturated with DIY software users and uncertified tax helpers.

3. Integration with Advanced Tax Preparer Software

Tax preparation today relies heavily on sophisticated software to manage complex calculations and e-filing processes. Certified preparers typically receive training on these systems as part of their tax preparer course.

Understanding how to fully leverage tax preparer software improves efficiency and accuracy. This technical skill is vital, especially in 2025, where automation and AI tools increasingly handle routine tasks, but still require expert oversight.

4. Growing Demand for Outsourced Bookkeeping and Tax Services

Businesses are outsourcing non-core functions like bookkeeping to specialized firms or freelancers to reduce costs and focus on growth. This trend, known as outsourced bookkeeping, creates a new synergy between bookkeepers and tax preparers.

Certified tax preparers who can collaborate effectively with outsourced bookkeeping providers add significant value. They can interpret financial data accurately, catch discrepancies early, and provide strategic tax advice — services that uncertified preparers may struggle to offer.

5. Higher Earnings and Career Opportunities

Statistics consistently show that certified tax preparers earn more than their uncertified counterparts. Certification opens doors to working with larger clients, more complex returns, and higher-paying positions in accounting firms or corporate tax departments.

Moreover, having a tax preparer certification makes it easier to start your own practice or join established firms that value credibility. In 2025, this credential is a critical factor for upward mobility in the finance and accounting sectors.

How to Become a Certified Tax Preparer in 2025

If you’re interested in entering the field or boosting your career, here’s a straightforward path to certification:

1. Enroll in a Reputable Tax Preparer Course

A solid tax preparer course covers essential tax laws, filing requirements, ethics, and the practical use of tax software. Many programs also provide continuing education options to keep you updated on yearly tax changes.

2. Gain Practical Experience

Hands-on experience with real tax returns, often through internships or entry-level jobs, complements your coursework and builds confidence.

3. Pass Certification Exams

Certification typically requires passing a rigorous exam demonstrating your knowledge of federal and state tax regulations and your ability to use tax software proficiently.

4. Obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN)

The IRS requires all paid tax preparers to have a PTIN. Certification programs often guide candidates through this process.

5. Maintain Certification with Continuing Education

Tax laws change annually, so staying certified requires ongoing learning — an important part of ensuring your skills remain sharp and compliant.

The Role of Tax Preparer Software in Certification and Practice

One cannot discuss tax preparation today without emphasizing the role of tax preparer software. These tools streamline calculations, verify compliance, and automate submissions. Certified preparers typically receive formal training on popular software platforms during their courses, giving them a competitive edge.

For example, some software solutions integrate seamlessly with outsourced bookkeeping systems, allowing tax preparers to receive up-to-date financial data directly, reducing errors and speeding up the tax filing process.

Certified preparers also understand how to use software analytics to identify deductions and credits that software algorithms might overlook, ensuring maximum client benefit.

Outsourced Bookkeeping and Certified Tax Preparers: A Perfect Partnership

The rise of outsourced bookkeeping services has transformed how businesses manage finances. These bookkeeping providers collect, organize, and maintain financial records remotely, often serving multiple clients simultaneously.

Certified tax preparers complement this model perfectly by taking the clean, accurate bookkeeping data and converting it into compliant, optimized tax returns. The efficiency of this partnership reduces turnaround times, lowers costs, and improves financial outcomes for clients.

For anyone looking to become a tax preparer today, understanding how to collaborate with outsourced bookkeeping firms and use integrated tax software is essential. Certification programs now often include modules on working within this modern, interconnected ecosystem.

Conclusion: Certification Is the Key to Success in 2025

As we move deeper into 2025, the value of a tax preparer certification cannot be overstated. It’s no longer enough to have basic knowledge of tax filing. Professional certification ensures you stay ahead of legislative changes, master complex tax software, and maintain high standards that clients and regulators demand.

In a world increasingly driven by outsourced bookkeeping and automation, certification provides the knowledge and credibility to stand out. If you want to become a tax preparer or grow your tax preparation business, investing in a comprehensive tax preparer course and obtaining certification will pay dividends in trust, career growth, and earnings.

So, whether you’re a budding tax professional or a seasoned accountant looking to sharpen your skills, 2025 is the year to prioritize certification — the foundation of excellence in tax preparation.

Outsourced Bookkeeping Services

Best Outsourced Bookkeeping Services for Small Businesses in 2025

In the fast-paced world of small business ownership, time and money are always in short supply. Between managing operations, marketing, customer relationships, and team building, keeping accurate financial records often takes a backseat—until tax season or cash flow issues arise. That’s where outsourced bookkeeping becomes a game changer.

As we enter 2025, more small businesses are turning to remote bookkeeping services to streamline their financial management and reduce operational costs. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a startup founder, or a small team scaling fast, hiring a virtual bookkeeper can provide the expertise you need without the cost of a full-time employee.

In this post, we’ll explore the best outsourced bookkeeping services for small businesses in 2025, the benefits of hiring remote professionals, and what to look for when choosing the right provider.

What is Outsourced Bookkeeping?

Outsourced bookkeeping refers to hiring a third-party service or individual to manage your financial records, transactions, and reporting. Instead of having an in-house bookkeeper, businesses rely on external professionals—often working remotely—to handle essential bookkeeping tasks.

These services typically include:

  • Recording daily transactions
  • Bank and credit card reconciliation
  • Accounts payable and receivable management
  • Payroll processing
  • Financial statement preparation
  • Budgeting and forecasting assistance
  • Tax-ready financial reports

With the rise of virtual bookkeepers and cloud-based accounting tools like QuickBooks Online, Xero, and FreshBooks, outsourcing your bookkeeping has never been easier or more cost-effective.

Why More Small Businesses Are Choosing Remote Bookkeeping Services in 2025

1. Cost Savings

Hiring a full-time, in-house bookkeeper can cost anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on your location. In contrast, remote bookkeeping services often operate on a monthly subscription or hourly model, with packages tailored to your business size and needs. This makes professional financial management accessible even to micro-businesses and startups.

2. Access to Professional Bookkeeping Expertise

When you outsource, you’re not just hiring a person—you’re hiring a team of experts with experience across industries. Many providers offer professional bookkeeping services backed by CPAs or certified bookkeepers who stay up to date with tax laws and compliance standards.

3. Scalability and Flexibility

As your business grows, your financial needs will evolve. Outsourced providers offer scalable solutions, so you can start with basic transaction management and gradually add services like payroll and financial forecasting as needed.

4. Time Savings and Focus

Bookkeeping can be time-consuming and detail-oriented. Outsourcing frees up your schedule so you can focus on growing your business, serving customers, and doing what you love—while your virtual team ensures your books are accurate and current.

Top Outsourced Bookkeeping Services for 2025

Here are some of the most reputable and high-performing outsourced bookkeeping providers for small businesses this year:

1. Bench

Bench continues to be a top-rated service in 2025, offering intuitive software combined with a dedicated bookkeeping team. It’s an excellent choice for small businesses that want a blend of human expertise and automated tools.

  • Best for: Startups, freelancers, e-commerce
  • Highlights: Monthly financial reports, year-end tax packages, dedicated bookkeeper
  • Price: Starts around $249/month

2. QuickBooks Live Bookkeeping

This Intuit-backed service integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks Online. You’ll get matched with a virtual bookkeeper who helps categorize transactions and prepare financial reports.

  • Best for: Businesses already using QuickBooks
  • Highlights: One-on-one support, QuickBooks integration
  • Price: Starting from $300/month

3. Belay Solutions

Belay offers U.S.-based remote bookkeeping services and specializes in providing seasoned professionals who can work as part of your extended team.

  • Best for: Businesses wanting personalized support
  • Highlights: High-touch service, weekly reporting, customized financial tracking
  • Price: Custom pricing

4. inDinero

With professional bookkeeping backed by CFO-level support, inDinero caters to growing companies that need more than just basic bookkeeping.

  • Best for: High-growth startups and tech businesses
  • Highlights: Real-time dashboards, tax filing, financial modeling
  • Price: Starts at $300/month

5. Xendoo

Xendoo combines bookkeeping, tax, and CPA services under one roof, giving small businesses an all-in-one financial partner.

  • Best for: Entrepreneurs who want one provider for everything
  • Highlights: Tax filing, weekly bookkeeping, business insights
  • Price: Starts at $195/month

Choosing the Right Virtual Bookkeeper for Your Business

When selecting a provider, consider the following:

  • Industry Experience: Look for a provider with knowledge in your specific niche.
  • Technology: Ensure compatibility with your existing accounting tools.
  • Data Security: Remote providers should follow strict data privacy and encryption standards.
  • Support Availability: Do you want 24/7 chat, phone consultations, or just monthly reports?
  • Customization: Can the provider tailor their services as your business evolves?

Reading reviews, asking for referrals, and booking a consultation can help you make an informed decision.

The Growing Importance of Bookkeeping Training

For business owners who prefer a hands-on approach or want to better understand their financials, bookkeeping training can be a smart investment. In 2025, more training programs are available online, often tailored to small business owners rather than accounting professionals.

These courses cover essentials like:

  • How to use tools like QuickBooks or Xero
  • Understanding cash flow and balance sheets
  • Preparing for tax season
  • Common mistakes to avoid in DIY bookkeeping

Even if you hire a virtual bookkeeper, having a foundational understanding can empower you to make better financial decisions.

Final Thoughts: Is Outsourced Bookkeeping Right for You?

If you’re overwhelmed by your books, falling behind on tax prep, or simply want to ensure you’re making informed business decisions, outsourced bookkeeping could be the smartest move you make in 2025.

With a variety of remote bookkeeping services available, there’s never been a better time to explore your options. Whether you need basic transaction tracking or full financial oversight, these services allow you to tap into professional bookkeeping without the overhead costs of hiring in-house.From solo entrepreneurs to scaling small businesses, the right virtual bookkeeper can help you stay financially organized, reduce stress, and focus on what you do best—growing your business.

Tax Preparer

How to Become a Tax Preparer: Step-by-Step for Beginners

Are you interested in numbers, detail-oriented, and looking for a career with high demand and flexibility? Becoming a tax preparer could be the perfect fit for you. Whether you’re aiming for a full-time role or want to earn extra income during tax season, this guide will walk you through how to become a tax preparer from scratch — step by step.

What Does a Tax Preparer Do?

Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand the role. A tax preparer is responsible for helping individuals and businesses file their taxes accurately and in compliance with the IRS. You’ll calculate tax returns, advise on deductions, and ensure that clients avoid penalties or audits. With proper training, some tax preparers also offer bookkeeping services and year-round financial advice.

Step 1: Understand the Role and Requirements

The first step in learning how to become a tax preparer is to understand what’s required legally and professionally. In the U.S., you don’t need a college degree to start, but you will need specific training and may need to register with the IRS or your state.

Depending on your state, licensing requirements may vary. However, most entry-level tax preparers can begin practicing after completing a tax preparer course and registering with the IRS.

Step 2: Take a Tax Preparer Course

To build a solid foundation, enroll in a tax preparer course. These courses cover important tax laws, filing procedures, and IRS compliance. You’ll learn:

  • How to file Form 1040 and related schedules
  • Federal and state tax codes
  • Common deductions and credits
  • Ethics and data protection
  • E-filing procedures

Many community colleges and online platforms offer tax preparer classes year-round. Opt for a reputable provider that offers updated course materials and practical experience, especially during tax season.

Step 3: Get Your Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN)

Before you can legally file tax returns for clients, the IRS requires you to obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). It’s a straightforward process:

  1. Visit the IRS PTIN registration website
  2. Create an account or log in
  3. Complete the application
  4. Pay the processing fee (around $30)

Once approved, you’ll receive your PTIN immediately. This number must be included on every tax return you prepare.

Step 4: Consider Additional Certification

Although certification isn’t mandatory to begin, it greatly enhances your credibility and can lead to better job opportunities. A tax preparer certification demonstrates your proficiency and commitment to the profession.

Popular certifications include:

  • IRS Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP): Voluntary but adds credibility.
  • Enrolled Agent (EA): Requires passing a 3-part exam and allows you to represent clients before the IRS.
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA): For those who wish to offer a full range of accounting services.

Taking a bookkeeping course online can also be beneficial, especially if you plan to offer year-round services beyond tax season.

Step 5: Gain Practical Experience

Once you’ve completed your tax preparer training and obtained your PTIN, it’s time to gain hands-on experience. You can:

  • Work under a seasoned tax preparer
  • Join a tax preparation firm like H&R Block or Jackson Hewitt
  • Offer free or discounted services to friends and family
  • Volunteer with organizations like the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program

The more experience you gain, the more confident and skilled you’ll become in handling complex tax situations.

Step 6: Set Up Your Business (Optional)

After building some experience, many tax preparers choose to go independent. If that’s your goal, you’ll need to:

  • Register your business name and obtain a business license
  • Purchase professional tax software
  • Secure data encryption and record-keeping tools
  • Consider errors and omissions insurance
  • Market your services locally and online

Combining tax preparation with additional skills like bookkeeping can make your services more appealing. A bookkeeping course online can provide you with the knowledge needed to manage clients’ financial records beyond just taxes.

Step 7: Stay Up to Date

Tax laws change frequently, so continuing education is crucial. IRS-approved courses help you maintain your credentials and keep up with new regulations. If you’re part of the AFSP or an EA, annual continuing education is required.

Many tax preparer classes and certifications offer updates as part of their ongoing training packages. Subscribe to IRS newsletters or follow tax forums to stay informed.

Why Become a Tax Preparer?

Here are some benefits of becoming a certified tax preparer:

  • Flexible Schedule: Work part-time or full-time, seasonally or year-round
  • Low Startup Costs: No degree required; most of the tools you need are affordable
  • High Demand: Especially during tax season and economic changes
  • Career Growth: Add services like bookkeeping or payroll to expand your offerings
  • Remote Possibilities: Work with clients across the country from your home

Recommended Tools & Courses

To make your journey easier, here are a few reputable options for tax preparer courses and bookkeeping course online:

  • NACPB (National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers): Offers both tax and bookkeeping certification
  • IRS VITA/TCE Training: Free resources for volunteer tax preparers
  • Coursera and Udemy: Affordable, flexible tax preparer training options
  • H&R Block Academy: In-person and virtual training with job placement opportunities

Final Thoughts

Learning how to become a tax preparer is a rewarding journey that opens the door to financial independence and career flexibility. With the right tax preparer course, hands-on experience, and ongoing education, you can establish yourself as a trusted financial professional in your community.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to switch careers, the demand for tax preparers and bookkeepers remains strong — especially in a world that’s growing increasingly digital and compliance-driven. Enroll in a training program, earn your certification, and take the first step today.