Summer is here and if you’re like most people, you’re thinking about relaxing at the beach or pool…soaking in the sun and enjoying BBQs with friends. But if you’re looking to get ahead, now is the perfect time to consider taking some continuing education (CE) courses.
Why should you complete CE this summer?
Summer is typically a slower time for tax preparers. So, many find they have more time between June-August and can complete CE before fall hits. With fall, comes the Sept. 15 estimated tax payment deadline and the Oct. 15 extension deadline. Then, there’s back to school and all the fall and winter holidays that also come into play. Completing CE over the summer will free up your fall, so you can focus on the tax deadlines, meet with clients to offer value-added services, and plan for the 2022 tax season.
Plus, completing CE comes with its own set of benefits …
Stay current with the tax law changes
As a tax preparer, you really can’t get by without taking — at the very least — a basic tax law updates course or seminar. Even without any credentials, we all know the tax laws are going to change every year. Preparers need to stay current with the changes that will impact the taxpayers they serve. It would be a disservice to your clients if you didn’t do this bare minimum.
Meet CE requirements
If you are a credentialed tax preparer or if you plan to complete the IRS voluntary Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP), you will have CE requirements that come along with that. Or maybe you’re an RTRP, EA, CTP, CTC, CTA, or CPA. With any of these credentials, you are required to continue your education, or you will lose your status.
Increase your knowledge & learn a new skill
It’s always a good idea to increase your knowledge! Continuing your tax education not only adds value for your current clients but you may also be learning new skills, which can bring in new clients and increase your revenue!
Earn a new credential
Perhaps it’s time to consider working toward a tax credential this summer. With a credential, comes more knowledge, new skills, a higher level of confidence and trust from your clients. Plus, the opportunity to handle more complicated tax returns and increase your revenue!
Stay ahead of the competition
Lastly, it’s always important to stay ahead of your competition. The best way to do that is to continue your education, so you can always add value for your clients. By staying current with the ever-changing tax laws, you’ll be able to guide your clients and advise them of strategies to keep more of their hard-earned money in their wallets. No client ever complained about that and you could create some raving fans from it.