The Big 4 accounting firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC) can open up multiple avenues of career growth and personal development for you. However, landing a job at one of these firms requires effort.
Obtaining the correct certifications can help you get started on the right foot. As you enter the workforce, continue working on your networking skills to get noticed by the big names in the industry.
Want to land a tax compliance role at a Big 4 accounting firm? Read this blog for some helpful tips. Explore the key steps to building a successful career in tax compliance, the certifications required, and much more.
Take your skills to the next level — Explore MS in Accountancy Online
Key Steps to Build a Career in Tax Compliance at a Big 4 Firm
How to build a career in tax compliance at a Big 4 firm? Here’s a step-by-step roadmap for you:
Understand What Tax Compliance Professionals Do
Depending on their positions (junior, officers, etc) and the organizations, tax professionals perform numerous responsibilities:
- Ensuring corporate income tax compliance.
- Assisting with tax audits.
- Providing tax advice.
- Replying to tax orders and notices.
- Comprehending tax laws and regulations.
Build the Right Educational Foundation
Acquiring the proper academic foundation is crucial for securing a tax compliance role at one of the Big 4 companies. Here are a few things to note:
- Most of the companies will be looking for at least a Bachelor’s degree in your field.
- Getting a Master’s degree is highly recommended for a competitive advantage.
- Consider pursuing other specializations and certificates to optimize your chances.
Gain Relevant Internships or Work Experience
While the Big 4 do invite applications from fresh graduates, an internship in the relevant field of work can significantly enhance your chances of landing a top role. Look for internship opportunities that help you:
- Gain practical experience.
- Work with a diverse client base.
- Build on your networking skills.
Also Read: Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting
Develop Skills that Big 4 Firms Look For
Make sure the internship or co-op program that you’re opting for helps you develop the following skills:
- Auditing.
- Tax Planning.
- Financial Reporting.
- Consulting.
Prepare for the Interview and Application Process
Make sure you aren’t appearing for the interview totally unprepared. A quick look at the steps involved in the application and interview processes:
- Go through the job description thoroughly.
- Make sure you’re applying only when your skills are aligned with the job description.
- Once your application is accepted, start preparing for the interview.
- Start by researching the company’s mission, vision, and core values.
- Practice behavioral questions.
- Attempt to answer technical questions.
Also Read: CPA vs. Master’s in Accounting: Which Path Is Right for Your Career?
How to Choose the Right Program to Accelerate Your Career?
A postgraduate degree in accounting will equip you with in-depth knowledge and advanced skills befitting tax compliance roles at the Big 4! Here is a look at the top factors you should consider while choosing a program:
| Parameters | What to Look For |
| Accreditation | Make sure the program is globally recognized. |
| Faculty | Relevant experience in tax compliance, tax laws, audits, etc. |
| Specializations Offered | Check if they align with your career goals. |
| Learning Format | On-campus, off-campus, or hybrid – designed to facilitate your learning style and availability. |
| Program Duration | Assess whether it facilitates the career goal deadlines you’ve set for yourself. |
| Career Opportunities | Check whether the alumni have landed jobs in big organizations. |
>
Also Read: Skills You Will Gain in an Online Accounting Master’s Program
How Edgewood University Prepares You for a Successful Tax Compliance Career (H2)
Explore Edgewood University’s Master’s in Accountancy program to accelerate career growth. Here’s a quick look at what the key accountancy program – Master of Science in Accountancy has to offer:
- Expertise befitting a career in the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
- A hybrid learning format designed for working individuals.
- Access to faculty with outstanding practitioner experience.
- Career counseling.
- Exposure to Accounting Club Events and Volunteer Income Tax Program opportunities.
You can also consider these courses from Edgewood University
- MS in Accountancy in Business Analysis and Reporting Online
- MS in Accountancy in Information Systems and Controls
- MS in Accountancy in Tax Compliance & Strategy
🎓 Explore Our Top-Rated Courses at Edgewood
Take the next step in your career with industry-relevant online courses designed for working professionals.
- Doctor of Business Administration Online
- Master of Business Administration Online
- Master of Science in Accountancy Online
- Dual Degree MBA and DBA
- Accelerated Secondary Education Online
- Accelerated Doctor of Education Online
- Master of Science in Thanatology Online
- Master of Science in Child Life Online
- Master of Arts in Art Therapy & Counseling Online
FAQs on How to Land a Tax Compliance Role at a Big 4 Accounting Firm
Q: What is tax compliance?
Ans: Tax compliance refers to the act of reporting income, expenses, and other relevant financial details to the monetary authorities in strict adherence to the tax laws. It also entails filing correct tax returns within declared deadlines.
Q: What degree is best for a career in tax compliance?
Ans: While the Big 4 do hire freshers with Bachelor’s degrees, a Master’s degree is absolutely recommended for a competitive advantage. Explore Edgewood University’s Master of Science in Accountancy (Henry Predolin School of Nursing, Business, Education, and Health Sciences) for a lucrative career in tax compliance.
Q: Is a CPA necessary for tax compliance roles at Big 4 firms?
Ans: No, a CPA is not necessary for tax compliance roles at Big 4 firms. However, having a CPA certification is beneficial since it demonstrates your expertise in tax compliance. Big 4 firms often prioritize candidates with CPA certifications.
Q: What software tools are used in tax compliance?
Ans: Anrok, Avalara, Vertex, and Sovos are a few popular tax compliance tools used widely today. These tools, which offer streamlined tax filing procedures, are designed to combat challenges related to tax compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
Q: What skills do I need for a tax compliance job?
Ans: Auditing, tax planning, financial reporting, and consulting are a few skills that you must have if you want to land tax compliance jobs at the Big 4. Enroll in an academic program that will help develop these skills.
