Tax Intern

At American Equity we offer leading annuity products that help empower our clients to fulfill their needs and wants in retirement. Our success comes from hiring high-energy individuals who embody the beliefs that drive our unique culture. We currently fund over half a million retirements nationwide, and have been headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa, for over twenty-five years with satellite offices in Charlotte, NC and New York, NY.

The American Equity Summer Internship Program offers an immersive real-world experience, closely replicating the career journey of an American Equity professional. Each intern will contribute to meaningful, hands-on projects that drive measurable business outcomes, gaining valuable experience along the way.

Interns will also have the opportunity to present their project work to company leaders, network with executives, and participate in educational programs designed to support their personal and professional growth. Additionally, interns will engage in community service projects and social events, building connections with fellow interns and the broader American Equity team.

GENERAL PURPOSE OF THE JOB

The Tax Intern works with the Tax Team to support federal and state tax compliance, income tax provision preparation, and tax-related reporting activities. The intern assists with gathering and organizing data, preparing supporting schedules, and maintaining documentation to support accurate and timely tax filings and reporting. This role offers hands-on exposure to corporate taxation, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance within a structured, professional environment.

LAUNCHPAD INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

The American Equity Launchpad Internship Program is designed to identify, develop, and empower the next generation of talent. Through meaningful project work, mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities, interns gain real-world experience while building the skills and connections needed to launch their careers.

The Launchpad Internship Program is a 10-12 week, in-person experience based in our downtown Des Moines office. Interns gain hands-on experience, collaborate with professionals across the organization, and contribute to work that drives meaningful business outcomes.

Program Highlights

• Contribute to meaningful projects that deliver real business impact.
• Receive dedicated mentorship from leaders and colleagues across the organization.
• Participate in an Intern Hack-a-thon focused on solving real business challenges and presenting innovative solutions to company leaders.
• Develop professional skills through learning sessions, leadership presentations, and networking opportunities.
• Engage in community service projects, Des Moines Intern Connections events, and social activities with fellow interns.
• Receive competitive compensation, including a housing stipend and recognition opportunities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists with preparation of federal and state indirect tax filings, including premium tax, withholding tax, franchise tax, sales and use tax, and excise tax.
• Supports data collection and organization for income tax return preparation.
• Assists with compiling documentation for tax audits and tax authority inquiries.
• Helps track tax filing deadlines and maintain compliance calendars.
• Assists in gathering financial data and preparing supporting schedules for quarterly and annual income tax provisions.
• Supports reconciliation of tax-related accounts and preparation of workpapers.
• Assists with maintaining tax documentation and supporting files.
• Supports process improvement initiatives and special projects as assigned.
• Completes project and support tasks with guidance from mentor and department leader.
• Collaborates with fellow interns across departments on a strategic, cross-functional initiative that drives meaningful business impact.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Actively pursuing a bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field of study. Interest in taxation, accounting, or financial reporting preferred.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS:

• N/A

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Basic accounting knowledge and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Ability to follow instructions and work within established procedures.
• Problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze structured data.
• Ability to work cooperatively and successfully with employees and external partners.
• Ability to manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Intellectual curiosity and willingness to learn.
• Travel is not required in this position.

DISCLAIMER:

This description covers the major purpose and essential functions of the job. It is not intended to give all details or a step-by-step account of the way each task is to be performed. Employees may receive other job related instructions and be required to perform other job related work requested by their manager. All requirements are subject to possible modification to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities.

At American Equity, our core values-Empowered, Passion, Integrity, and Caring-are more than words. They guide how we support one another and how we serve our clients every day. To learn more about American Equity, our culture, and our values, visit the Careers site.

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