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Business & Finance · Iowa

How to Become a Tax Preparers in Iowa

Tax Preparers in Iowa earn a median salary of $53,660/year, which is 2% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a tax preparers takes home approximately $1,995/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$54K
Median salary in Iowa
-2%
vs. national average
4.9%
State income tax
780
Employed in Iowa

What a tax preparers can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$53,660
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.9% state tax)$3,543/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,548/mo
Rent as % of take-home43.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$53,660/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,995/mo

Becoming a tax preparers in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Tax Preparers positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many tax preparers positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Iowa licensure or certification

Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for tax preparerss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Iowa

Iowa employs 780 tax preparers. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Dubuque.

Tax Preparers salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$64K$30.56/hr210
Dubuque$61K$29.49/hr50
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$60K$28.98/hr80
Cedar Rapids$52K$24.92/hr80
Sioux City$49K$23.39/hr30

Tax Preparers salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$34K
25th percentile
$39K
Median (50th)
$54K
75th percentile
$74K
90th percentile (senior)
$85K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a tax preparers make in Iowa?

The median tax preparers salary in Iowa is $53,660 per year ($25.8/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $54,920. Salaries range from $33,520 to $84,700.

What are the requirements to become a tax preparers in Iowa?

Tax Preparers positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a tax preparers afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $53,660, a tax preparers in Iowa would take home approximately $3,543/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,548/month, that's 43.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for tax preparers in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for tax preparers in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($63,560), Dubuque ($61,330), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($60,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for tax preparers?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $53,660 salary, this means roughly $2,633/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.