Tax Associate (Entry Level)

About This Role

H&R Block is hiring Tax Associates to prepare and review individual and small-business tax returns at its retail locations. This is an ideal entry point for graduates pursuing a career in taxation or public accounting, with training, certification, and advancement opportunities provided by H&R Block's in-house Tax Institute.

Job Overview

• Job Title: Tax Associate (Entry Level)
• Company: H&R Block
• Location: Kansas City, MO / Chicago, IL / Houston, TX / Philadelphia, PA / Los Angeles, CA
• Job Type: Full-time
• Experience Level: Entry-level (0–2 years)
• Salary Range: $18–$26/hr
• Posted Date: 2026-06-03
• Application Deadline: 2026-07-03

Role Context

Tax Associates work in H&R Block retail offices of 3–8 people during tax season, serving a walk-in and appointment client base. You will be trained on H&R Block's tax preparation software and complete the required IRS AFSP (Annual Filing Season Program) or EA coursework before your first season. This role is high-volume during January–April, with lighter activity the rest of the year.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare individual (1040) and small-business tax returns using H&R Block software
• Conduct client interviews to gather income, deduction, and life-event information
• Identify credits and deductions to minimize client tax liability legally
• Review prior-year returns for carryforward items and year-over-year consistency
• Explain tax results to clients in clear, non-technical language
• Stay current on IRS code changes through H&R Block Tax Institute courses

Requirements & Skills

• Bachelor's in Accounting, Finance, or Business (or enrollment in a tax curriculum)
• Basic understanding of individual income tax concepts
• Client service orientation and ability to handle a high-volume appointment schedule
• Attention to detail in data entry and return review
• Willingness to complete H&R Block Tax Institute certification before first season
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) is a significant plus in client-facing locations

Benefits & Work Conditions

• $18–$26/hr with performance bonuses tied to return volume and accuracy
• H&R Block Tax Institute training provided at no cost
• Flexible scheduling during off-peak season
• Paid health benefits for qualifying full-time associates
• Career path to Tax Specialist, Senior Tax Advisor, or office management roles

Who Should Apply

Recent graduates with interest in taxation and direct client interaction. This role builds the practical tax preparation skills that form the foundation of any public accounting or enrolled agent career. It is especially valuable for those planning to pursue CPA or EA licensure.

About the Company

H&R Block is the largest consumer tax preparation company in the US, preparing over 20 million returns annually at its 10,000+ retail locations and through its digital services. Its Tax Institute trains associates on the latest IRS regulations and software tools each year.

How to Apply

Apply through H&R Block Careers or visit a local office. Positions open in September each year for the upcoming tax season. No prior tax preparation experience is required — training is provided.