A tax accountant is a professional who specializes in preparing and filing tax returns for individuals and businesses. They ensure that clients comply with tax laws and regulations while maximizing deductions and credits. Tax accountants often stay updated on changes in tax legislation to provide accurate advice and strategies for tax planning. In addition to preparing tax returns, tax accountants may also offer services such as auditing, consulting, and financial planning. They help clients understand their tax obligations and can represent them in case of audits by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or other tax authorities.