The Facts about Tax
Long-time Fort Smith CPA shows job takes hard work
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hen it comes to filing taxes, ensuring one files correctly can be intimidating. Luckily, with Certified Public Accountants (CPA), these worries can be put to rest. According to the Occupational Information Network (O*NET), an accountant’s job is to “analyze financial information and prepare financial reports to determine or maintain record of assets, liabilities, profit and loss, tax liability, or other financial activities within an organization.” For Michael Higgins, a 30-year veteran as a CPA with Norris Taylor & Company Certified Public Accountants, the job allows for joy in helping others. ”My favorite part of working in this field is income tax preparation,” he says. “As most of our clients are small businesses or individuals, this is the area where I feel I can be the most 52 | Career Watch Arkansas
helpful to their needs. The overall goal in my job is the desire and ability to provide ethical, accurate, and sound accounting and tax advice to my clients. Many times, that advice is in the business realm, but often this advice carries over to their personal lives.” Higgins adds that the occupation does not come without its challenges, including keeping up with accounting pronouncements made by governing boards and associations in financial statement preparation and reporting. “As much of our practice is tax preparation, keeping up with the latest tax regulations is also of major concern,” he says. While the field offers tough challenges, it also provides for rewarding experiences. “The most rewarding part of working in this field is the relationships you make with your
