Every year, as the calendar flips to certain months, accountants find themselves racing against the clock, managing a whirlwind of deadlines, paperwork, and client requests. It’s no secret that accounting professionals experience a "busy season"—but when exactly does it start, and what can both accountants and their clients expect during this high-pressure period? 

Whether you're a business owner, a freelancer, or an individual filing your taxes, understanding the timing and intensity of an accountant’s busy season can help you plan better and avoid last-minute stress. 

In this article, we are going to explore the key dates, what makes this season so hectic, and how you can navigate it smoothly, whether you're part of the accounting world or simply seeking clarity on what lies ahead.

When is Busy Season for Accountants?

The busy season for accountants is primarily tied to tax-related deadlines, but it can vary based on the type of accounting work they handle. For most accountants, this period spans several months, peaking in the early part of the year. 

However, it’s important to understand that the busy season is not just about taxes—other factors like fiscal year-end reports and business audits can also contribute to the stress. 

1. Tax Season: The Peak of the Busy Period

For many accountants, tax season is the heart of the busy season. This period begins in January and typically peaks in April, leading up to the tax filing deadline on April 15 (or the following business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday). 

  • January: Tax season kicks off with the preparation and gathering of client documents.
  • February to March: The majority of returns are processed, and last-minute filings intensify.
  • April 15: Tax filing deadline for most individuals and businesses.

2. Fiscal Year-End Deadlines for Businesses

For businesses with a fiscal year-end other than December 31, accountants can face additional busy periods. Companies often need their financial statements prepared, reviewed, and audited in time for year-end reporting. 

  • Businesses with fiscal years ending in March, June, or September often have intense workloads in the months following the fiscal year end.
  • Accountants may need to close books, conduct audits, and prepare financial reports.

3. Quarterly Filings and Compliance Reports

Beyond taxes and year-end reports, accountants also manage quarterly filings, compliance documents, and other financial duties throughout the year. While these tend to be less intense than tax season, they still contribute to the busy periods for accountants.

  • Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments: Accountants need to help clients calculate and submit estimated tax payments on April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 (for the following year).
  • Business Compliance Filings: For corporations and partnerships, the deadlines for quarterly financial reports and other regulatory filings add to the overall workload.

4. Busy Season for Bookkeepers and Auditors

While tax season gets the most attention, auditors and bookkeepers experience busy seasons of their own. These professionals often face a surge of work around the time businesses close their books and need audits or reconciliations done. 

The timeline for this varies, but many bookkeepers and auditors experience peak workloads at the same time as tax season or immediately following.

  • Year-End Audits: A rush of audits and reconciliations typically occurs in January to March for businesses with a December 31 year-end.
  • Quarterly Reconciliations: Bookkeepers also experience bursts of work as businesses close their books at the end of each quarter.

In Busy Season How Many Hours Do Accountants Work?

During the busy season, accountants often experience a significant increase in their work hours due to tight deadlines and the sheer volume of tasks. On average, accountants may work 50 to 70 hours per week during peak periods, with some even putting in more than 80 hours during the height of tax season. 

Late nights and weekends become a regular part of the routine as accountants strive to meet client demands, file returns on time, and ensure everything is in order. 

The long hours are not just a result of the workload but also a response to the high-pressure nature of the season, where accuracy and timeliness are paramount.

Accounting Fees in Busy Season vs. Normal Season

Higher Fees: Accountants often charge premium rates during the busy season due to the increased workload, tighter timelines, and higher levels of stress. The urgency of tax filings and the need for precision mean that accountants must allocate more time and resources, which justifies the higher fees.

Hourly Rates:

  • Junior Accountants: $40-$60 per hour
  • Experienced Accountants: $200-$350 per hour
  • Senior-level Accountants: $350-$600 per hour

Flat Fees:

  • Simple Tax Returns: $150-$400
  • Complex Tax Returns: $400-$1,500+
  • Business Tax Returns: $750-$7,500+

Normal Season

Months: May to December, excluding periods around major tax deadlines.

Lower Demand: Demand for accounting services typically decreases after tax season ends, as fewer clients require assistance with tax filings and financial statements during this time.

Standard Fees: During the normal season, accountants charge their regular rates since the volume of work is more predictable and manageable, with fewer time-sensitive projects. The workload is often more evenly distributed, and there’s less pressure to work overtime.

Hourly Rates:

  • Junior Accountants: $30-$50 per hour
  • Experienced Accountants: $150-$300 per hour
  • Senior-level Accountants: $300-$500 per hour

Flat Fees:

  • Simple Tax Returns: $100-$300
  • Complex Tax Returns: $300-$1,000+
  • Business Tax Returns: $500-$5,000+

Why Accountants Are So Busy in Busy Season?

The busy season for accountants is driven primarily by the overwhelming demand for tax preparation and filing services. As individuals and businesses scramble to meet tax deadlines, accountants are faced with a surge in clients needing assistance with tax returns, financial statements, and compliance. 

The volume of paperwork, coupled with the pressure to ensure accuracy and meet tight deadlines, makes this period especially intense. Additionally, accountants often work with clients who have last-minute questions or require customized advice, adding to the overall workload. 

With the need for precision and the time-sensitive nature of the work, accountants often find themselves working long hours to keep up with the demands of the season.

Tips for Accountants to Survive Busy Season

The busy season for accountants can be overwhelming, but with the right strategies in place, you can manage the stress and stay productive. By planning ahead, staying organized, and maintaining a work-life balance, accountants can navigate the intense workload while delivering high-quality service. 

Here are some practical tips to help you survive the busiest months of the year.

Plan Ahead and Set Realistic Goals

Preparation is key to managing a busy season. Break down your tasks into manageable chunks, prioritize high-impact items, and set realistic goals for each day. Use a calendar or project management tool to track deadlines and stay on top of tasks.

  • Create a daily to-do list.
  • Set weekly milestones for major tasks.
  • Avoid over-promising to clients.

Delegate When Possible

Delegation is a powerful tool for staying on top of a heavy workload. Whether you're part of a team or working solo, don't hesitate to pass off tasks that can be handled by junior accountants or support staff.

  • Delegate routine tasks to junior accountants.
  • Utilize administrative support for paperwork.
  • Leverage automation tools to reduce manual work.

Stay Organized with Digital Tools

Using digital tools and software can streamline your workflow and help keep everything organized. Software for tax filing, accounting, and document management can reduce errors and save time.

  • Use QuickBooks for bookkeeping and invoicing.
  • Leverage TaxSlayer for tax preparation.
  • Use Trello or Asana for task management.

Automate Repetitive Tasks

Automating routine processes—such as invoicing, payroll, and reporting—can save countless hours during the busy season. Invest in software or tools that automate these tasks to reduce manual effort.

  • Use Zapier to automate workflows.
  • Set up automated email reminders for clients.
  • Use time-tracking software like Harvest to monitor billable hours.

Take Breaks and Manage Stress

Working long hours can lead to burnout, so it's crucial to take short breaks to recharge. Whether it's a quick walk, a coffee break, or a short meditation session, these moments can increase productivity and reduce stress.

  • Schedule regular breaks throughout the day.
  • Practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises.
  • Stay hydrated and eat healthy snacks.

Set Boundaries with Clients

During the busy season, it’s essential to set clear boundaries with clients regarding your availability. Manage expectations by clearly communicating your office hours and response times to avoid being overwhelmed by urgent requests.

  • Establish clear communication channels (email, phone, etc.).
  • Set realistic deadlines with clients.
  • Use auto-response messages to manage client expectations.

Prioritize High-Value Clients and Tasks

Focus your time and energy on clients and tasks that will have the most significant impact. Identify high-value clients who require more personalized service and prioritize their needs.

  • Create a priority list based on client value.
  • Allocate more time to complex or higher-paying clients.
  • Use client segmentation tools to streamline service offerings.

Keep a Positive Work-Life Balance

It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and grind, but maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential to avoid burnout. Make sure to disconnect after hours and take time for yourself and your family.

  • Set clear boundaries for work and personal life.
  • Take time off during slow periods for relaxation.
  • Maintain hobbies or exercise routines to stay energized.

Is Accounting a Stressful Field?

Accounting can be a highly stressful field, especially during peak times like tax season or year-end financial reporting. The constant pressure to meet tight deadlines, manage complex data, and ensure accuracy leaves little room for error. 

Accountants are often tasked with handling large volumes of paperwork, balancing multiple client needs, and making high-stakes decisions that can impact a company’s financial health. 

While the job can be rewarding, the stress associated with meeting regulatory requirements, long hours, and maintaining attention to detail can take a toll on an accountant’s mental and physical well-being.

The Negative Impact of Busy Season on Weekends

During the busy season, weekends become a critical time for accountants to catch up on work and meet approaching deadlines. As a result, many professionals find themselves sacrificing their personal time to handle the growing demands of tax preparation, auditing, and financial reporting. 

This disruption to weekend downtime can lead to burnout, decreased work-life balance, and even strained relationships. While working weekends is sometimes necessary to meet the heavy workload, it often leaves accountants with little time for rest and relaxation, making it a challenge to recharge before starting another busy week.

The Bottom Line

Handling the busy season as an accountant is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right strategies in place, it’s possible to manage the workload, minimize stress, and deliver exceptional service to clients. By planning ahead, staying organized, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, accountants can survive the busiest months without burning out. 

While the demands of tax season and other key deadlines may seem overwhelming, the rewards of successful management—both for the accountant and their clients—make the effort worthwhile. With these tips in hand, you’re better equipped to face the busy season head-on and come out on top.

FAQs

Q 1: What is the hardest part of being an accountant?

Ans: The hardest part of being an accountant is managing deadlines and the pressure to maintain accuracy, especially during peak periods like tax season or year-end reporting. The workload can be overwhelming, requiring long hours and attention to detail.

Q 2: How old are most accountants?

Ans: Most accountants are typically in their 30s or 40s, with many having gained significant experience by the time they reach mid-career. However, there is a wide age range, with younger accountants entering the field and experienced professionals continuing well into their 50s and beyond.

Q 3: Is accounting a growing or dying field?

Ans: Accounting is a growing field. With the increasing complexity of tax laws, financial regulations, and business needs, demand for skilled accountants continues to rise, especially in areas like tax preparation, auditing, and forensic accounting.

Q 4: Are accountants busy in November?

Ans: Accountants are typically not as busy in November as during tax season, but they still handle tasks like quarterly reports, year-end planning, and corporate tax preparations. The workload can vary depending on clients' fiscal year-end dates and other ongoing accounting needs.