A tax associate ensures their company is reporting their finances and submitting tax paperwork in compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Tax associates generally do not work independently, but instead are hired on as part of a team. The tax associate reviews their company's financial records to verify that the company is in compliance with laws (such as Internal Revenue Service requirements). They also must ensure the company is paying proper taxes for payroll, income, investments, and property. The tax associate generally has access to many different company financial documents to guarantee the correct taxes are being paid. They must be highly organized to keep track of these files, and they must follow any relevant company privacy rules and privacy laws.

Tax associates typically work in an office environment during regular business hours. However, overtime may be required; for example, during busy periods such as upcoming filing deadlines, a tax associate may be required to work evenings and weekends. Tax associates usually work closely with accountants, other tax aides, and other relevant financial professionals in the office.

A bachelor's degree in accounting, auditing, or a related field is typically required for this position. Larger companies may require a master's degree in a relevant field as well. Status as a certified public accountant (CPA) may be required or preferred as well. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Tax Associate Tasks

• Use software to enter data and file taxes for clients.
• Collect, validate and return tax documents.
• Ensure compliance to timelines, information requests and legal requirements.
• Research and explain tax information, needs and paperwork, offering advice.

With a pay rate for Tax Associates that is 14 percent greater than the national average, San Jose offers a comfortable salary for those in this profession. Tax Associates will also find cushy salaries in San Francisco (+14 percent), New York (+11 percent), Los Angeles (+9 percent), and Seattle (+7 percent). Trailing the national average by 12 percent, Cleveland is the market with the smallest paychecks. A couple other locations with smaller-than-average paychecks include St. Louis (5 percent lower) and Atlanta (4 percent lower).