How to Become a Tax Preparers in California
Tax Preparers in California earn a median salary of $73,210/year, which is 45% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a tax preparers takes home approximately $3,333/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a tax preparers can afford in California
Becoming a tax preparers in California
Meet education requirements
Tax Preparers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many tax preparers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for tax preparerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 10,700 tax preparers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Tax Preparers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $84K | $40.19/hr | 770 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $83K | $40.02/hr | 1,590 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $75K | $35.9/hr | 4,240 |
| Fresno | $62K | $29.6/hr | 170 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $60K | $29.05/hr | 50 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $58K | $27.81/hr | 110 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $57K | $27.53/hr | 560 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $51K | $24.34/hr | — |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $49K | $23.39/hr | 870 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $45K | $21.58/hr | 170 |
| Vallejo | $45K | $21.51/hr | 40 |
| Salinas | $45K | $21.41/hr | 70 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $44K | $21.3/hr | 80 |
| Chico | $44K | $21.19/hr | 40 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $44K | $20.93/hr | 70 |
Tax Preparers salary range in California
Tax Preparers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a tax preparers make in California?▼
The median tax preparers salary in California is $73,210 per year ($35.2/hr). This is 45% above the national median of $50,560. Salaries range from $36,250 to $102,290.
What are the requirements to become a tax preparers in California?▼
Tax Preparers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a tax preparers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $73,210, a tax preparers in California would take home approximately $4,745/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for tax preparers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for tax preparers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($83,600), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($83,240), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($74,670). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for tax preparers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $73,210 salary, this means roughly $2,955/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.