Tax Preparers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 73,570 tax preparers, and they earn a median of $50,560/year. The range runs from $31K to $96K. Alaska pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level tax preparers start around $31K. The gap between that and the median ($51K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $96K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $77K | 80 |
| New York | $73K | 6,880 |
| California | $73K | 10,700 |
| Montana | $71K | 340 |
| Minnesota | $66K | 1,330 |
| Texas | $62K | 5,930 |
| Wyoming | $60K | 120 |
| Virginia | $59K | 2,200 |
| North Dakota | $59K | 300 |
| Massachusetts | $59K | 1,800 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a tax preparers make?▼
The median tax preparers salary in the United States is $50,560 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level positions start around $30,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,240.
What education do you need to become a tax preparers?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for tax preparers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for tax preparers.
What are the highest paying states for tax preparers?▼
The highest paying states for tax preparers are Alaska ($77,010), New York ($73,230), California ($73,210), Montana ($71,370), Minnesota ($65,530). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.