U.S. Tax Preparer, Small Business Returns

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

• Prepare federal and relevant state tax returns for small business clients, including 1040, Schedule C, 1120, 1120-S, and 1065 forms.

• Review client documents, bookkeeping records, year-end financial statements, prior-year returns, and supporting schedules prior to preparing the return.

• Detect missing information, inconsistencies, unsupported balances, or bookkeeping issues before the return is sent for review.

• Recognize bookkeeping issues that impact the accuracy of tax returns, make straightforward supported adjustments when necessary, and document or escalate any corrections needed before filing.

• Engage directly with clients when additional information is required and conduct draft review calls to explain the return, balance due/refund, approval requirements, and next steps in simple terms.

• Prepare or assist with returns involving R&D credits/Form 6765 when applicable, and identify missing documentation or items that need specialist/advisor review.

• Provide clear status updates, respond promptly to both internal and client communications, and proactively highlight any potential blockers or risks to deadlines.

• Clearly document workpapers, assumptions, adjustments, open questions, client conversations, and next steps.

• Independently resolve routine tax preparation inquiries using tax knowledge, research, and internal resources; escalate issues only when they are genuinely advisory, legally sensitive, complex, or beyond the defined scope.

• Quickly correct any preparation-related errors or omissions as indicated by reviewer feedback.

⛳️ Requirements

• Valid IRS PTIN.

• Proven experience in U.S. tax preparation, specifically with small business returns.

• Familiarity with at least some of the following forms: 1040, Schedule C, 1120-S, 1065, and 1120.

• Capability to review financial statements, year-end financials, bookkeeping records, general ledgers, income/expense reports, and supporting documentation.

• Ability to identify when bookkeeping issues or adjustments impact the accuracy of tax returns.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including comfort in speaking directly with clients via phone or video.

• Proficiency in explaining tax concepts clearly, calmly, and empathetically to individuals without a tax background.

• Strong computer skills and the ability to work efficiently across multiple systems in a remote setting.

• Independent ownership, responsiveness, follow-through, and sound judgment within established workflows.

• Willingness to complete BenchTax’s written technical assessment and customer communication assessment.

• CPA or Enrolled Agent designation is preferred.

🏝️ Benefits

• Must meet Bench’s minimum hardware and internet requirements for effective communication and workflow.

• Flexible work arrangements.