Frequently Asked Questions FAQs Become a CPA

Let an expert do your taxes for you from start to finish with TurboTax Live Full Service. Or get your taxes done right, with experts by your side with TurboTax Live Assisted. Government accounting, maintaining and examining the records of public agencies. Also, accountants with a CPA certification tend to advance to positions of more responsibility within one to two years and often are promoted to senior-level jobs within a few years after that. Earning the CPA credential is a big time commitment, and the exam process is difficult.

Our site does not feature every educational option available on the market. We encourage you to perform your own independent research before making any education decisions. Many listings are from partners who compensate us, which may influence which programs we write about. Develop the analytical skills needed to not only become an accountant—but to continue your evolution. Get tips for success from 10 in-field experts to help you climb the career ladder and increase your earning potential. Gain insights for every career stage in our free Accounting Career Guide.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) job description

Receiving your CPA certification distinguishes you from other business professionals – the benefits are increased trust, opportunity, and financial reward. Becoming a Certified Public Accountant gives an accountant higher standing in the eyes of business contacts, professional peers, regulators, and clients alike. This is because a CPA has met minimum education requirements, https://www.thenina.com/retail-accounting-as-a-way-to-enhance-inventory-management/ passed a rigorous four-part exam, and agreed to abide by a code of ethics. Some CPAs specialize in forensic accounting services, where they reconstruct destroyed financial records or investigate whether fraudulent activities have occurred. The articles and research support materials available on this site are educational and are not intended to be investment or tax advice.

Lastly, when considering a CPA, check their online reviews or their Better Business Bureau accreditation. By doing your due diligence, you will have the best chance of hiring a highly qualified CPA. Your business started as a hobby and you want to know how the IRS will classify your company.

How to Choose a CPA

Individuals are also required to complete 150 hours of education and have no fewer than two years of public accounting experience. To receive the CPA designation, a candidate also must pass the Uniform CPA Exam. A CPA can provide a variety of services depending on whether they are in a public practice or work real estate bookkeeping for a corporation as an accounting professional. The services an accountant can provide includes analyzing financial data, maintaining accounting records, providing financial projections, and preparing taxes. The CPA designation isn’t required to work in corporate accounting or for private companies.