Employment in tax preparation services averaged 95,000 in 2022

Average annual employment in tax preparation services was between approximately 95,000 and 98,000 from 2017 to 2022, after being above 100,000 most years from 2006 to 2016 and peaking at 113,000 in 2009.

On a monthly basis, this industry exhibits considerable seasonal variation, following a regular pattern each year such that employment in most months is significantly different from the annual average. Employment in tax preparation services usually reaches its annual maximum in February, and its annual minimum in July, August, or September.

In 2022 for example, tax preparation services employment peaked at about 142,000 in February, declined to 139,000 in April, and dropped to near 62,000 in August.

In contrast, in 2009, tax preparation employment reached nearly 238,000 in February, was near 193,000 in April, and fell to less than 44,000 in July.

While the annual maximum employment in this industry, mirroring annual average employment, has been on a downward trend since 2009, the annual minimum has been trending up since 2001.

These data are from the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW) program. Data for 2023 are preliminary. QCEW data are calculated with data in quarterly reports from establishments covered by the unemployment insurance program. Employment that is not covered by unemployment insurance (for example, the self-employed) is not included in QCEW data. The tax preparation services industry (NAICS 541213) comprises establishments engaged in providing tax return preparation services without also providing accounting, bookkeeping, billing, or payroll processing services. Offices of certified public accountants are not included. Note that 4th quarter and annual average 2023 QCEW data for this industry will be available June 5, 2024.