17 Tax Specialist Interview Questions and Answers

Are you looking for a career that offers stability and job security? Are you interested in helping businesses and individuals with their tax planning and preparation? If you answered yes to both of these questions, then a career as a tax specialist may be the perfect fit for you.

As a tax specialist, you will be responsible for preparing and filing tax returns for individuals and businesses, advising clients on tax planning strategies, and representing clients before the IRS. To land this in-demand job, you will need to be able to answer questions related to your experience and skills, as well as questions about the tax code.

In this guide, we will provide you with a list of questions that are commonly asked in tax specialist job interviews, as well as sample answers to help you prepare.

Are you familiar with the tax code?

The tax code is a set of rules that govern how taxpayers file their taxes. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the necessary knowledge and skills to complete your job duties. In your answer, explain what the tax code is and why it’s important for tax specialists to understand it. If you are familiar with specific sections of the tax code, list them.

Example: “I am very familiar with the tax code because I’ve been studying it since I started my career as a tax specialist. The tax code is an essential resource for tax professionals because it tells us which deductions we can claim on our clients’ returns. For example, if I didn’t know about section 179D of the tax code, I might not be able to help my client take advantage of the business equipment deduction.”

What are some of the most important skills you have for a tax specialist position?

Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills they’re looking for in a tax specialist. They want someone who is organized, detail-oriented and able to work independently. When answering this question, think about which skills are most important to your success as a tax specialist. Try to choose skills that show you can do the job well.

Example: “I believe some of the most important skills for a tax specialist position are organization and attention to detail. I am very good at keeping track of my work and making sure all of my numbers add up correctly. Another skill I find useful is communication. I enjoy talking with clients and helping them understand their taxes. It’s also helpful to be comfortable using technology since many tax specialists use software to complete their work.”

How would you describe the relationship between the IRS and taxpayers?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your understanding of the relationship between taxpayers and the IRS. This is an important aspect of tax law because it can help you understand how to interact with taxpayers as a tax specialist. In your answer, try to describe the relationship in terms that highlight its importance while also explaining why it’s necessary.

Example: “The relationship between the IRS and taxpayers is one of mutual respect. The IRS has the authority to enforce tax laws, but taxpayers have rights when interacting with the IRS. For example, taxpayers have the right to privacy, which means they should expect the IRS to keep their information confidential. Taxpayers also have the right to appeal any decision made by the IRS.”

What is your experience with preparing and filing tax returns?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience level and how you approach tax returns. You can answer by describing a recent tax return you prepared, including any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

Example: “I recently completed my first tax return for an individual client. The client had multiple sources of income, so I needed to be sure that I was accurately reporting all their earnings. To ensure accuracy, I researched each form of income thoroughly before entering it into the system. In addition, I double-checked my work twice to make sure there were no errors.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to provide a client with additional information or documentation to complete their tax return.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your customer service skills. They want to know that you can communicate effectively with clients and help them understand the tax process. In your answer, try to describe a situation in which you helped a client complete their taxes and how it positively affected their experience.

Example: “When I first started working as a tax specialist, I had a client who was unsure of what documents they needed to provide me for their return. After speaking with them on the phone, I realized that they were missing some important information. I told them that we could still file their taxes without all of the documentation, but that they would need to submit the remaining forms by April 15th or risk paying additional penalties. The client understood and submitted the necessary paperwork before the deadline.”

If a client came to you with a question about their taxes, how would you ensure they understood the answer?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you interact with clients and whether you’re able to communicate effectively. Use examples from your experience where you helped a client understand tax information or concepts.

Example: “I would first make sure that I had all of the necessary documentation for the client so that I could answer their questions as thoroughly as possible. If they still seemed confused, I would try to explain it in different ways until they understood. In my last role, I worked with a client who was unsure about what deductions she qualified for on her taxes. After explaining the process to her several times, she finally understood and was able to file her taxes successfully.”

What would you do if you discovered an error in a previous tax return you had prepared?

This question can help interviewers understand how you respond to challenges and errors in your work. Your answer should show that you are willing to take responsibility for your mistakes, learn from them and make improvements going forward.

Example: “If I discovered an error on a tax return I had prepared, I would first apologize to the client for my mistake. Then, I would contact the IRS or state agency responsible for collecting taxes to inform them of the error. I would also correct the error on any future returns I prepare for this client. In addition, I would ensure that the client received all refunds they were owed as soon as possible.”

How well do you understand the tax implications of different business structures?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of the different business structures that exist and how they affect tax liability. Use examples from your experience to show you understand the differences between these structures and their impact on taxes.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with small businesses, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies and S corporations. I know that each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to tax liability. For example, sole proprietorships are easy to set up but can be challenging to scale because of the way they’re taxed. LLCs offer more flexibility than sole proprietorships but still have some limitations. S corporations allow for complete separation between personal assets and company assets, which is a major benefit.”

Do you have experience preparing business tax returns?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience level and how you might fit into their company. If you have no prior experience preparing business tax returns, consider describing a time when you had to learn new processes or procedures quickly.

Example: “I’ve prepared individual tax returns for several years now, but I also completed an online course on how to prepare business tax returns last year. I found that it was actually quite similar to preparing individual tax returns, so I feel confident in my ability to perform this task if necessary.”

When preparing a tax return, what is your process for verifying a client’s information?

This question can help an interviewer understand how you approach your work and the steps you take to ensure accuracy. Your answer should include a step-by-step process for verifying client information, including any tools or resources you use to confirm data.

Example: “I always start by reviewing my client’s previous tax returns. This helps me get a better idea of their financial situation and gives me insight into what they have reported in the past. I also check with the IRS website to see if there are any changes to tax laws that may affect my client. Finally, I compare my findings against the client’s records to make sure everything is accurate.”

We want to attract high-net-worth clients. How would you market our firm to this demographic?

This question is an opportunity to show your creativity and how you can help a company attract new clients. High-net-worth individuals are often looking for tax specialists who can provide them with the best service, so it’s important that you demonstrate your ability to market the firm effectively.

Example: “I would start by researching high-net-worth individuals in my area. I would then create a marketing plan based on their needs and preferences. For example, if they’re interested in finding a tax specialist who can offer them financial advice, I would highlight our team members’ credentials and experience. If they’re more interested in finding someone who can save them money, I would explain how we use technology to find deductions and credits.”

Describe your process for handling complex tax returns.

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your ability to handle complex tax returns and how you approach them. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, attention to detail and organizational abilities.

Example: “I start by reviewing the client’s financial information and identifying any areas of concern or confusion. I then work with my team to determine which forms we need to complete the return. Once I have all the necessary paperwork, I review each form carefully to ensure that I haven’t missed anything. If I find an error, I correct it immediately so I can submit a new return before the deadline.”

What makes you stand out from other tax specialists?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your skills and experience. They want to know what makes you unique from other candidates. When answering, think of a skill or quality that sets you apart from others. You can also mention any certifications you have.

Example: “I am passionate about helping people understand the tax system. I enjoy teaching clients how to file their taxes so they can do it themselves in the future. In my previous role, I created a free tax filing service for low-income families. I helped over 100 families last year by preparing their taxes at no cost.”

Which tax software programs are you familiar with?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with tax software programs. If you have previous experience working as a tax specialist, describe which software program you used and how it helped you complete your job duties. If this is your first time using tax software, explain that you are eager to learn about different programs.

Example: “I am familiar with TaxSlayer Pro and TurboTax. I used both of these programs when I worked at my last company, where we offered free tax filing services for low-income families. The software was easy to use, so I could focus on helping clients rather than figuring out how to navigate the system. I also learned some advanced features, such as finding deductions and credits, which helped me provide more in-depth service.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of customer service for a tax specialist?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you prioritize your work and what skills you use to provide excellent customer service. Your answer should show that you understand the importance of providing quality customer service, especially in a tax office where clients are often stressed about their taxes.

Example: “I think it’s important for tax specialists to be empathetic when working with customers. I always try to remember that my clients are probably very stressed out about their taxes and they’re coming to us because they need help. I make sure to listen carefully to each client so I can fully understand their concerns and needs. This helps me give them more personalized advice.”

How often do you update your knowledge of the tax code?

The tax code is a constantly changing document, and it’s important for tax specialists to stay up-to-date on the latest changes. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re committed to your professional development. In your answer, explain how you plan to keep yourself informed about any new developments in the tax code.

Example: “I subscribe to several newsletters that provide updates on the tax code. I also have a few online forums where I can discuss recent changes with other tax professionals. I find these resources very helpful because they allow me to learn about changes before they go into effect.”

There is a new law that impacts how you prepare your clients’ tax returns. How do you update your process?

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to learn new information and apply it to your work. You can answer this question by describing a time you learned about a new law or regulation that impacted how you prepared tax returns, and how you applied the new information to your process.

Example: “I recently attended a seminar on the new tax laws regarding capital gains. I was already aware of some of these changes, but there were several others that I had not considered before. I immediately updated my clients’ tax returns to reflect the new regulations. This helped ensure that all of their taxes were calculated correctly.”