What Happens to Tax Prep Jobs Now That Tax Season's Over?
Tax prep employment expects major seasonal shifts. What do the latest trends reveal?
Tax Prep Jobs: Hot in Winter, Cooling Off by Summer
Now that tax day is behind us, the hiring frenzy in tax prep is winding down, as it does every year. The cycle is familiar, firms ramp up staffing before the April 15 deadline, then scale back hard. But if you zoom out, the picture gets more interesting.
The Pattern Is Clear, But the Details Are Changing
Every tax season, employment in the industry peaks in February, then dips sharply by late summer. For instance, in 2022, jobs dropped from 142,000 in February to just 62,000 by August. Compare that to 2009, where peaks were closer to 238,000 and a low of 44,000 in July. So what’s changing?
What’s Behind the Long-Term Shift?
- Tech is Taking Over: With DIY software like TurboTax and digital platforms by H&R Block, fewer people need in-person help.
- Regulations Keep Evolving: Simplified tax codes may reduce the need for pros, while complexity can boost it.
- Rise of the Independent Preparer: More tax pros are freelancing or gig-working, often off the radar of official employment data.
- COVID Changed the Game: Remote work and digital-first models are here to stay, and that’s affecting hiring patterns too.
What This Means for Recruiters and Firms
If you’re hiring in this space, or helping others hire, here’s what matters:
- Think Seasonally, Act Strategically
Get ahead of the curve by sourcing experienced seasonal workers early. Build a bench of reliable talent. - Hire for the Future, Not Just the Season
As automation grows, the value shifts to specialized skills, like compliance expertise or tax strategy. - Consider Year-Round Roles
More firms are retaining staff year-round for planning, consulting, and value-added services. Retention strategies matter more than ever.
Last Word
Tax season may be over, but the hiring game isn’t. For firms navigating this evolving landscape, understanding the big-picture employment shifts is key, and working with executive recruiters like Lyneer Search Group can help secure standout talent all year long.
