How to Become a Tax Preparer in Arkansas
The State of Arkansas does not provide professional certification for tax preparers. The skills and knowledge needed to prepare taxes professionally can be acquired by training with a private company or through taking community college or university classes in accounting.
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Instructions
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Training to Become a Tax Preparer in Arkansas
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Research private companies that specialize in tax preparation as well as colleges and universities that offer accounting classes. Links to private firms can be found at the Arkansas State Board of Accountancy website.
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Decide which path works best for you. Most private companies offer on line-only courses; however, college classes would count toward an associate or bachelor degree in accounting. A degree in accounting is required to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Though a CPA designation is not necessary to prepare taxes, it can open up more career opportunities beyond tax preparation.
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After completing a course of education, find a job. Working for a private company or government agency can offer the mentoring and experience necessary to excel as a tax preparer. Working as an individual will provide flexibility, though it is advisable to obtain a bond to protect yourself financially. A bond would not be necessary as an employee of a company or government agency.
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Tips & Warnings
Tax preparers are sometimes called tax specialists. Community colleges may have certificates to become a tax specialist.
Individuals are responsible for their own taxes, and the same goes for studying to be a tax preparer. Beware of any company with guarantees that seem too good to be true.
Being a tax preparer is a job like any other and will require time and effort.
