What Does a CPA Do?

Certified Public Accountants

Who ranks among the most trusted professionals? CPAs.

Who are required to maintain high standards through continuous education? CPAs.

Who have a strict code of ethics compliance? CPAs.

CPAs are trusted financial advisers because they must pass the rigorous CPA Exam and meet work experience requirements before being licensed. These requirements for licensure ensure CPAs maintain the highest standards. CPAs can be:

Auditors
Business advisers
Decision makers
Tax consultants
Accounting consultants
And much more for both individuals and businesses.

The following are some of the positions CPAs hold:

Tax and Financial Planning

CPAs help individuals and companies with financial planning, investments, taxes, mergers and acquisitions, and much more.

Consulting Services

Individuals, businesses, financial institutions, nonprofits, and government agencies need CPAs for objective advice in both financial and strategic areas.

Assurance Services

In addition to traditional audit services, such as examining annual reports, new niche areas of assurance have increased the demand for the expertise of CPAs.

Forensic Accounting

Also known as investigative accounting or fraud auditing, forensic accounting digs into financial records searching for evidence of criminal misconduct.

Information Technology (IT) Services

Exploding IT growth has created huge opportunities for CPAs with strong computer and data security skills to design and implement advanced systems.

International Accounting

In today's global economy, CPAs with an understanding and mastery of international trade and regulations are in great demand.

Environmental Accounting

With increasing resources focused on environmental issues, these CPAs conduct compliance audits and design preventive systems to ensure compliance.

This information is published courtesy of the AICPA's "Takin' Care of Business" brochure.

CPA Career Profiles

Explore various career possibilities that exist with an accounting degree and CPA credential. From entrepreneurs to educators, CPAs have the opportunity to create their own career paths.

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