They say that the only sure things in life are death and taxes, so it's easy to understand why tax careers are popular. Tax employment is steady employment. Everybody has to pay taxes.

Of course, there are many different types of careers in taxation. You can help individuals or companies file their taxes. You can advise businesses about tax law. You can even help overseas employees learn their tax responsibilities.

If you want to be eligible for the best tax jobs:

1. Receive training in tax law and processes. Companies prefer to see that you have a 4-year degree or MBA before they hire you for a tax professional job. This shows that you have the knowledge and skills you need to do a good job.

2. Take an internship while you're still in school. If you are interested in tax employment opportunities at the best companies, you need to gain experience. Internships are a great way to do this. Even small companies will be impressed with someone that has experience right out of college.

3. Ask a professional resume writer to write your resume specifically for tax jobs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Search for tax preparation jobs and other tax-related jobs on job boards

One of the most convenient ways to find tax jobs is by using the many job posting boards. Most of these boards allow you to upload your resume, which makes applying for jobs easy. You can also search for jobs in your area, or throughout the country.

I recommend: Use TaxTalent.com to search for jobs. They allow you to anonymously post your resume so that it doesn't alert your current employer that you're looking for work. CareersInTax.com also has a searchable job board.

Help expats file taxes with overseas tax jobs

People who live and work overseas have complicated tax needs. They may have to pay taxes in both their home country and the country they live in. As an overseas tax accountant, you can help expats navigate the waters.

I recommend: EscapeArtists.com allows you to search for jobs by location. This is great if you already know what country you want to live in. eFinancialCareers also lists tax accounting jobs. You can use their search function to find tax jobs overseas.

Ask a recruiting agency for help finding tax accountant jobs

Many job seekers find that they get more interviews when they use a recruiter. A good headhunter has a number of contacts and this may be just what you need to get your foot in the door of the company you want to work for.

I recommend: ET Search, Inc. is an executive placement firm that specializes in placing tax professionals in positions all over the world. They conveniently list their available positions on their website. Tax Integrity also places qualified tax professionals into great companies.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Look for freelance tax preparer jobs during the busy tax season. You can easily pick up some extra money helping individuals file their taxes.