A tax consultant in the USA, also known as a tax advisor, helps individuals and businesses navigate tax laws, maximize deductions, and ensure compliance with IRS regulations. With the complexity of the U.S. tax system, tax consultants are in high demand.
This guide covers job responsibilities, salary expectations, skills, certifications, where to apply, and tips to secure a tax consulting job in the USA.
What Does a Tax Consultant/Adviser in the USA Do?
A tax consultant provides expert tax guidance, ensuring compliance while minimizing tax burdens. Unlike tax preparers, tax consultants offer strategic tax planning for individuals and businesses.
Key Responsibilities
- Advise clients on tax-saving strategies
- Prepare and file individual and business tax returns
- Ensure compliance with IRS and state tax laws
- Assist clients with IRS audits and disputes
- Guide corporate, estate, and international tax matters
- Stay updated on changing tax laws and regulations
Tax consultants work in accounting firms, corporate tax departments, financial institutions, or as independent advisors.
Salary for Tax Consultant in the USA
Salaries for tax consultants depend on experience, certifications, and industry.
| Experience Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $50,000-$70,000 per year |
| Mid-Level (3-7 years) | $75,000-$100,000 per year |
| Senior-Level (8+ years) | $110,000-$200,000+ per year |
Top-Paying Industries
- Corporate tax and finance
- Public accounting firms
- Wealth management and estate planning
- International Taxation
Senior consultants with CPA, EA, or CTA certification often earn higher salaries.
How to Become a Tax Consultant/Advisor in the USA
1. Get the Right Education
A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, economics, or tax law is typically required. A Master’s in Taxation (MST) or a Juris Doctor (JD) in Tax Law can help with career advancement.
2. Gain Experience in Tax Preparation or Accounting
Start your career by working in:
- Accounting firms
- Corporate finance departments
- IRS or government tax agencies
3. Obtain Tax Certifications
Certifications improve credibility and increase job opportunities. The top certifications include:
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Enrolled Agent (EA)
- Certified Tax Advisor (CTA)
- Chartered Tax Professional (CTP)
A CPA or EA certification can boost salary by 20–30% and improve job prospects.
4. Develop Essential Tax Consulting Skills
To succeed as a tax consultant, you need:
- Strong knowledge of tax laws
- Analytical thinking for tax planning
- Attention to detail for accurate filings
- Good communication to explain tax matters to clients
- Problem-solving skills for handling IRS disputes
Where to Apply for Tax Consultant Jobs in the USA
Top Job Portals
- Indeed
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Glassdoor
- ZipRecruiter
Accounting & Finance Firms
- Big Four firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG)
- Regional and mid-sized accounting firms
- Corporate tax departments
Government & IRS-Related Jobs
- IRS careers website (jobs.irs.gov)
- State revenue departments
Freelance & Independent Consulting
- Start your own tax advisory business
- Offer tax services on Upwork, Fiverr, or PeoplePerHour
How to Secure a Tax Consultant Job in the USA
1. Build a Strong Resume & Cover Letter
- Highlight education, certifications (CPA, EA), and relevant experience
- Showcase tax preparation, auditing, or financial advisory skills
- Use action words (e.g., “Managed tax filings for 50+ clients,” “Optimized tax strategies for corporate clients”)
2. Gain Practical Experience
- Work as a junior accountant, tax preparer, or finance analyst
- Volunteer for tax preparation programs like VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance)
- Intern with accounting firms or corporate tax departments
3. Network with Industry Professionals
- Attend tax and accounting conferences
- Join professional organizations like AICPA and NATP
- Connect with recruiters on LinkedIn
4. Prepare for Job Interviews
Common interview questions for tax consultants:
- “How do you stay updated on tax law changes?”
- “How would you handle a client facing an IRS audit?”
- “What tax-saving strategies do you recommend for businesses?”
5. Consider Freelance or Remote Tax Consulting
Many tax consultants now offer virtual services through:
- Remote tax firms
- Online platforms
- Independent consulting for small businesses and individuals
Job Outlook for Tax Consultants in the USA
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects accounting and tax-related jobs to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031.
Why Choose a Career in Tax Consulting?
- High demand due to tax law complexity
- Competitive salary potential ($50,000-$200,000+)
- Career growth opportunities in the finance and legal sectors
Is a Career as a Tax Consultant in the USA Right for You?
If you have an interest in finance, tax law, and problem-solving, becoming a tax consultant in the USA is a stable and rewarding career choice.