The Opportunity
Virginia Estate & Trust Law PLC (VAET) seeks a knowledgeable and experienced Fiduciary Tax Preparer/Accountant to join our team. This is an exceptional opportunity to become part of a highly respected boutique law practice that is recognized as one of Central Virginias first comprehensive estate planning estate and trust administration and fiduciary services firms. At VAET you will be immersed in an environment that values technical excellence innovation and a client-centered approach working alongside professionals who are leaders in the field of trust and estate law.
About Virginia Estate & Trust Law
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
- Exclusive Focus: VAET has focused on estate planning estate and trust administration and fiduciary services since its founding in 2002. This discipline allows us to provide in-depth expertise and tailored solutions for every client.
- Innovators in the Field: Our founder Derek Smith established the firm to offer fiduciary services in addition to estate planning and estate settlement-a pioneering concept that ensures clients plans are administered as intended with technical skill deep expertise and sensitivity.
- Award-Winning Team: Our attorneys have decades of collective experience with many of them recognized by their peers within and beyond the Commonwealth for their own professional accomplishments.
- Collaborative and Supportive Culture: We routinely partner with investment advisors accountants financial planners and other professionals who specialize in other practice areas. We offer our services with a high level of client care and expertise allowing our referral partners to confidently offer additional support to their clients.
- Client-Centered Philosophy: We believe in listening to and connecting with our clients delivering creative solutions that address wealth preservation philanthropy business succession and stability for future generations.
- Professional Development: VAET is committed to the ongoing growth of its team offering opportunities for professional advancement and a supportive collegial work environment.
Position Overview
Reporting to the Director of Estate Administration the Fiduciary Tax Preparer/Accountant will:
- Prepare fiduciary income (1041) estate (706) and gift (709) tax returns; occasionally prepare decedents final personal income tax return (1040).
- Review tax returns prepared by estate administrators and outside accountants.
- Manage tax return processes ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Maintain accurate records for trusts and estates including tax information and payment dates.
- Possess strong expertise in estate and trust tax preparation.
- Proficient in managing fiduciary tax matters specifically for trusts and estates.
- Provide technical expertise to attorneys and estate administrators.
- Train and mentor new estate administrators.
- Communicate with the IRS and Virginia Department of Taxation to request information and resolve tax issues for decedents estates and trusts.
- Collaborate with attorneys staff and firm partners to meet client and/or firm tax needs.
- Work with the Director of Estate Administration to plan and manage tax season.
- Prepare and/or review fiduciary accountings for trusts and estates.
Qualifications
- Bachelors degree in Accounting Finance or related field or the equivalent education through career experience.
- Strong expertise in estate and trust tax preparation.
- Experience managing fiduciary tax matters specifically for trusts and estates.
- Ability to provide technical expertise to attorneys and estate administrators.
- Experience training and mentoring preferred.
- Excellent communication skills for interacting with the IRS Virginia Department of Taxation attorneys staff and firm partners.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with attorneys staff and firm partners.
- Experience preparing and reviewing fiduciary accountings for trusts and estates.
Why Join VAET Law
- Reputation for Excellence: Work with a firm consistently recognized among the best in Virginia for estate and trust law.
- Specialized Expertise: Be part of a team whose entire focus is on estate trust and fiduciary services-no one-size-fits-all solutions.
- Long-Term Client Relationships: Our clients know we will be there for the long term providing continuity and deep understanding of their needs.
- Collaborative Team: Join a collegial group of attorneys administrators and professionals who value mentorship and teamwork.
- Meaningful Impact: Help families and individuals achieve their goals preserve their legacies and navigate complex tax matters with confidence.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health dental and vision insurance.
- Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
- Retirement plan with employer contributions.
- Opportunities for professional development and growth.
- Hybrid work situation with some time required in the office. Must live in Greater Richmond area.
To Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in this position. Please contact Tom Prest at if you have any questions. For best consideration applications should be received by August 22 2025.
Confidentiality
All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
Join us in providing exceptional service to our clients and making a meaningful impact in the field of estate and trust law at a firm that is truly unique in its depth professionalism and commitment to excellence.