A Steuerberater is a professional who provides comprehensive advice regarding taxes and aims to help individuals, businesses, and organizations minimize their potential tax liability. This is a high-level role that requires advanced education in finance or accounting, as well as significant experience with the IRS. In addition, many of these professionals have earned specialized credentials that distinguish them from their counterparts, including a CPA certification, tax lawyer status, or an Enrolled Agent (EA) license.
There are a few key skills that tax consultants must possess to be successful in this role, including strategic thinking and problem-solving, computer and software skills, verbal communication, and a dedication to continuing education. These competencies are essential to the career because tax law is complex and continually evolving.
Tax consultants use their problem-solving skills to identify ways for clients to save money or increase profits, and they also utilize data analysis skills to assess a client’s financial situation. The career demands excellent attention to detail and thoroughness because small errors can cost clients substantial amounts of money. In addition, these professionals often collaborate with other professionals in the accounting field to ensure accuracy and compliance with tax laws.
It is important for tax consultants to stay up-to-date with changes in tax law, so they must be dedicated to continuing education. This enables them to keep their knowledge of the industry current and ensures they are providing accurate and timely information to clients. Additionally, they must be able to communicate the results of their research clearly and concisely in order to make them easy for non-tax professionals to understand.
People who choose to become a tax consultant usually have prior experience in an unrelated field, such as sales, customer service, or administrative work. This background gives them the necessary skills to effectively communicate with clients, as well as other professionals in the accounting and tax fields.
A person may also choose to become a tax consultant after completing a relevant degree program, such as an online Master of Accountancy with a specialization in taxation or a Juris Doctor program that includes a concentration in taxation. Alternatively, a graduate degree in business administration with a focus in management could be appropriate for someone who wants to become a tax consultant.
People can find a tax consultant by asking friends or colleagues for recommendations, consulting lists of qualified professionals compiled by trade associations, and reading online reviews. In addition, they can also visit the websites of specific firms to see what types of services they offer and how they are staffed. Some consultants have a specific area of expertise, such as working with small businesses or assisting retirees with complex tax issues. As a result, some may charge higher rates than others. It is important to carefully research each candidate before choosing one.