AdminA tax consultant is a professional who offers advice and counsel on a variety of financial matters related to income tax, trust, estate and retirement taxes. They help individuals, families and small businesses minimize tax liability and capitalize on deductions. They are more qualified than standard tax preparers, and often have training in tax law or accounting. Some have postgraduate degrees. Others have professional designations like certified public accountants (CPA) or enrolled agents.
The main job duties for a tax consultant involve evaluating the client’s financial and legal situation to determine tax liabilities, preparing complex tax forms and schedules that most tax preparers do not use and offering strategic solutions to mitigate their clients’ tax burdens. They also keep current on tax laws and requirements at both the federal and state level.
Choosing the right tax consultant is an important decision. These professionals have access to a lot of personal information, so it’s essential that you find someone who is trustworthy and you feel comfortable sharing with. Consider asking friends or family for recommendations, and look at online reviews on sites like Yelp and Google.
Other key soft skills for a successful tax consultant include written communication, organizational ability and attention to detail. Often, they are required to review large amounts of documentation and may notice small errors or discrepancies that can have significant implications for their clients. They must be able to effectively communicate their findings and suggestions to both their peers and leadership. Steuerberater