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 forms 1040, Schedule C, 1120, 1120-S, and 1065.

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

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

• Detect bookkeeping problems that may impact the accuracy of tax returns, make straightforward supported adjustments as necessary, and document or escalate any issues that need correction before filing.

• Engage directly with clients to request necessary information 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 that involve R&D credits/Form 6765 where applicable, and identify missing documentation or items needing specialist/advisor review.

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

• Document workpapers, assumptions, adjustments, open questions, client discussions, and next steps in a clear manner.

• Independently resolve routine tax preparation inquiries using tax knowledge, research, and internal resources; escalate only in cases that are genuinely advisory, legally sensitive, complex, or beyond the 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, particularly with small business returns.

• Familiarity with at least some of the following: 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 recognize when bookkeeping issues or necessary adjustments impact the accuracy of tax returns.

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

• Ability to explain tax concepts clearly, calmly, and empathetically to individuals without tax expertise.

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

• Demonstrated 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.

• Big 4 experience with Ernst Young, KPMG, Deloitte, & PWC.

• Experience with R&D credits and Form 6765, including qualified research expenses, payroll tax credit considerations, and substantiation requirements.

• Background in preparing returns for startups, software companies, engineering firms, product-development businesses, or other R&D-intensive clients.

• Experience in conducting draft review calls and making or suggesting adjusting journal entries.

• Familiarity with Drake Tax or similar professional tax software.

🏝️ Benefits

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