Contract Tax Preparer

Overview
HGN Tax Prep is seeking a knowledgeable tax preparer with experience preparing individual and business tax returns. The position is focused on technical tax preparation and practical accounting knowledge rather than sales, consulting, or corporate-style management duties.

The ideal candidate understands how tax returns fit together mechanically — from trial balances and depreciation schedules to equity roll-forwards and shareholder basis. This role works primarily with individuals, small businesses, farms, and passthrough entities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and review:
• Form 1120-S (S Corporations)
• Form 1120 (C Corporations)
• Form 1065 (Partnerships)
• Form 1040 (Individuals)
• Analyze and work from client trial balances and financial statements.
• Roll retained earnings, partner capital, and shareholder equity correctly from year to year.
• Prepare and maintain fixed asset and depreciation schedules, including common MACRS depreciation methods used for farm and business equipment.
• Prepare individual returns involving:
• Brokerage statements and investment reporting
• Rental activities
• Schedule C businesses
• Schedule F farm operations
• Preferred additional knowledge:
• Schedule E passthrough reporting
• Shareholder and partner basis
• Passive activity loss limitations
• At-risk limitations
• Assist with bookkeeping in QuickBooks Online (QBO), including:
• Classifying transactions
• Reconciling and tying accounts to statements
• Cleaning up bookkeeping records
• Other bookkeeping assistance as needed
• Communicate clearly with clients regarding missing information, accounting issues, and tax return questions.

Software Used

• Drake Tax Software
• QuickBooks Online
• Microsoft Excel

Qualifications

• Strong working knowledge of federal income tax law and tax return mechanics.
• Experience preparing business and individual tax returns independently.
• Ability to understand and work through balance sheets, equity accounts, and depreciation schedules without step-by-step supervision.
• Familiarity with agricultural and small business returns is preferred.
• Experience with QuickBooks Online bookkeeping is appreciated.
• CPA, EA, or accounting degree is welcome but not required if experience is sufficient.

Pay is hourly, and depending on qualifications, may be between $45-$55/hour.

About HGN Tax Prep

HGN Tax Prep focuses on accurate tax preparation, technically sound workpapers, and practical service for individuals and small businesses. The firm emphasizes competence, reliability, and clear financial reporting over sales-driven metrics or volume-based preparation.

Pay: $45.00 - $55.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Professional development assistance

Experience:

• Tax Preparation: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• CPA or EA License? (Preferred)

Work Location: Remote