The Best Tax Manager Certifications for 2024

It requires specialized knowledge and expertise to navigate the complexities of tax regulations.  Tax managers play an essential role in navigating these tax waters to ensure the clients and companies they represent comply with the law and limit their tax liabilities.

Getting certified is one of the best ways tax managers can remain abreast of ever-changing tax laws and making sure they can offer the best tax advantages.

Do Tax Managers Need Specific Certifications?

Certifications are not generally mandatory to secure a job as a tax manager.  But that does not mean they are not beneficial.  As with most jobs, employers are always trying to hire and retain the most qualified candidates.  Meaning that a tax manager with specialized training and certifications is more likely to receive the highest paying positions over his or her non-certified counterparts.

What Are Some of the Top Tax Manager Certifications?

There are many different certifications a tax manager could benefit from.  Each one offers unique benefits.  But which one is best is entirely subjective in that it depends on your ideal career growth and interest areas.

That said, here are four of the top certifications for tax managers.

1.      Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Perhaps the most widely recognized financial certification, CPA certification covers a wide range of areas, from auditing and taxation to financial accounting.   Tax managers who are looking to open the door to senior tax management positions would significantly benefit from this certification and the credibility that comes with it.  Further, if a tax manager is looking to pivot their career path from tax to finance, a CPA certification will help them do it.

2.      Enrolled Agent (EA)

An EA certification specifically allows individuals, like tax managers, to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).  The EA differs from the CPA in that it is narrowly tailored to focus on tax matters.  So, if you are a tax manager who wants to focus solely on tax issues, the EA certification may be your ideal choice.  And the specialized tax knowledge that comes with it will be highly coveted by employers.

3.      Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA)

A CTA is an international certification with global recognition.  It is offered by the Chartered Institute of Taxation in the United Kingdom.  CTAs are highly regarded for their focused and practical tax knowledge.  If you are a tax manager looking to improve your international tax knowledge to gain clients outside of the country, the CTA certification may be perfect for you.

4.      Master of Science in Taxation (MST)

An MST is not technically a certification, but for those passionate about a tax career who are not afraid of further education, pursuing an MST degree is a great option.  MST degrees provide graduates with in-depth knowledge of tax law and tax-related topics including federal, state, and international taxation; estate planning; and tax research. This in-depth knowledge will quickly separate MST graduates from their peers when applying for jobs and higher-level positions.

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