Nearly every public and private business entity – across all levels of government, small and large businesses, and major accounting firms (KPMG, EY, Deloitte, PwC) – hires finance professionals.

Demand for accounting and finance jobs shifts with the economy. As the economy grows, so does the need for accounting and financial management services. To improve their accounting skills, knowledge, credibility and job prospects, many financial and accounting professionals earn specializations in various accounting niches. We’ll explore five of the most popular accounting and finance certifications and how they’ll benefit finance professionals. 

What are accounting and finance certifications?

There are several different accounting and finance certification types. One of the most well known is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification. CPAs specialize in auditing, compliance, taxes, forensic accounting, fraud examinations and more. Another popular finance certification is the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification, which leans toward financial analysis.

Other lesser-known certifications include certified bank auditor, certified fraud examiner, certified information systems auditor, certified internal auditor and enrolled agent. However, CPA is the most sought-after certification, as many accountants’ careers will plateau early on without one.

Did you know? Accounting and finance professionals are usually familiar with several of the best accounting software solutions integral to various business types.

What are the benefits of being certified?

Certifications indicate specialized knowledge, which can help clients hire the right accountant for their needs. According to the Institute of Financial Consultants, current financial certifications can also help accomplish the following:

• Enhance professional reputations.
• Support continued professional development.
• Demonstrate a high level of commitment to the field.
• Validate skills and knowledge.
• Communicate credibility.
• Increase opportunities for career advancement and increased earnings.
• Differentiate candidates in a competitive job market.

Certifications also have benefits that extend to the public, the financial industry and employers. Certifications can help businesses do the following:

• Standardize practices.
• Increase cooperation between organizations in the same discipline.
• Provide the means for self-regulation.
• Increase employee competence.
• Identify quality service providers.
• Provide the means to establish an ethical code.
• Establish customers’ confidence in employees.
• Make employment decisions.

Did you know? As firms recruit new employees for accounting and financing jobs, certifications immediately demonstrate potential hires’ areas of specialized knowledge.

Top 5 accounting and finance certifications

We’ll take an in-depth look at five of the most popular and valuable accounting and finance certifications, along with some additional credentials you may be interested in pursuing.

1. Certified Government Financial Manager

Those interested in government accounting, financial reporting, auditing and budget planning at the local, state or federal level should consider the Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) certification offered by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA).

To get a CGFM certification, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of professional experience in government financial management. They must also pass three CGFM exams:

• Governmental Environment (GE)
• Governmental Accounting, Financial Reporting and Budgeting (GAFRB)
• Governmental Financial Management and Control (GFMC)

Each exam costs $125. Candidates must also pay an application fee of $80 for AGA members, $36 for student members and $109 for nonmembers.

According to LinkedIn Salary, those who have obtained their CGFM certification typically earn about $98,000, with the high end around $140,000.

2. Certified Management Accountant

The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) is the membership organization behind the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification, which is aimed at management accountants and financial professionals.

Regarding what differentiates a CMA from other accounting-related professionals, the IMA explains that CMAs understand the “why” behind numbers, not just the “what.” That means a CMA’s role may involve analyzing and reporting monthly financials, forecasts and the annual budget, as well as providing strategic planning input.

A CMA certification can be lucrative. IMA’s 2021 Global Salary Survey reports that the median total compensation for CMAs is 58% higher than it is for those without the designation. The study found that the overall median base salary in 2021 was $110,000, with an overall median total compensation of $124,000.

To achieve the CMA designation, you must have the following:

• Current IMA membership
• A bachelor’s degree or an approved accounting certification
• Two years of relevant work experience
• A passing score on the two-part CMA exam

The first part of the CMA exam covers financial reporting, planning, performance management and analytics. The second part focuses on financial strategy and decision-making. 

The IMA charges $275 for a Professional membership, an entrance fee of $280 (for professional members) and $460 for each exam part. (A discount is available to students and academic members, and a limited number of scholarships is available each year.)

Tip: The latest two-part CMA exam went into effect on Jan. 1, 2020. Review the CMA exam structure and FAQs to prepare.

3. Certified Public Accountant

The creme de la creme of accounting certifications is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA). CPAs can work for public- or private-sector organizations or as consultants. CPAs can handle various tasks, such as financial records maintenance, corporate finance, budget oversight, tax preparation, and financial planning. 

Some CPAs earn additional certifications and engage in more specialized activities, including serving as an internal financial records auditor, applying forensic accounting techniques to detect financial crimes and acting as a fraud examiner.

Each state – and several jurisdictions – certify and license CPAs through their boards of accountancy, so you’ll need to research the requirements of your locale. A typical minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree with courses in general accounting, cost accounting and more. AccountingEdu.org and the Association of International Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) CPA exam page are good starting points to determine the requirements you’ll need to meet.

The typical CPA salary is about $73,000, based on salaries reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The AICPA indicates that the average salary for CPAs with significant experience is about $120,000.

Did you know? Small businesses hire CPAs so they can spend less time worrying about taxes, save money by taking advantage of deductions, keep finances up to date, and stay in good standing with the IRS.

4. Chartered Financial Analyst

The CFA Institute offers the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification, which is geared toward investment and portfolio managers, corporate finance advisors, and analysts.

Candidates for the CFA designation must have the following: 

• A passport for ID purposes
• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Four years of investment decision-making work experience
• Or a combination of education and experience

Earning the CFA designation requires passing three exams – levels I, II and III – which are offered every June. (The Level I exam is also offered in December.) The Level I exam focuses on knowledge and comprehension of investment tools. The Level II exam tests a candidate’s application and analysis of asset valuation. The Level III exam tests for portfolio management skills.

The CFA Institute charges a one-time program enrollment fee of $450 and a standard registration fee of $1,000 for each exam. Early registrants pay $700 per exam.

The BLS listed the median salary for financial managers as $134,180 in 2020.

5. Enrolled Agent

Tax professionals may be interested in earning the Enrolled Agent (EA) credential. Created by the IRS, the EA credential identifies people qualified to represent U.S. taxpayers in personal and business tax situations, such as collections and appeals. A certified EA typically has a lot of experience in tax preparation for a wide variety of federal and state tax returns. The EA is the highest credential you can achieve through the IRS.

To become an EA, you must have worked for the IRS for at least five years interpreting the tax code, or you must pass the three-part Special Enrollment exam (SEE). 

You must also do the following:

• Obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number
• Pass a background check
• Adhere to ethical standards
• Complete 72 hours of continuing education every three years

Each part of the SEE costs $185, and candidates must pay a $67 fee to apply for enrollment.

The National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) offers more information and training resources for becoming an EA.

The salary for EAs varies widely by location in the U.S. According to LinkedIn Salary, the range is $30,000 to $65,000. 

Did you know? Like financial certifications, marketing certifications can help professionals advance their marketing careers and display specialized knowledge.

Other finance and accounting certifications to consider

• Certified bookkeeper: The Certified Bookkeeper (CB) certification comes from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. This certification can help you achieve more high-level bookkeeper positions.
• Institute of Internal Auditors certifications: The Institute of Internal Auditors is well known for its Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certification, but it also offers the Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA) certification and Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP) certification, among a few other credentials.
• AICPA certifications: In addition to providing CPA exam information and resources, the AICPA offers several certifications of its own, including the Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV), Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF), Certified in Entity and Intangible Valuations (CEIV), Certified in the Valuation of Financial Instruments (CVFI), and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designations.

These are some higher-level and specialty certifications of note:

• Certified Chief Accountant (CCA)
• Financial Risk Manager (FRM)
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
• Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA)
• Master Analyst in Financial Forensics (MAFF)
• CAIA Charterholder

Financial certification FAQs

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions on financial or accounting certifications.

Which are the easiest and most difficult accounting certifications to obtain?

All of the featured certifications here have rigorous requirements. 

• CFA: The CFA designation requires a bachelor’s degree (at minimum) and four years of experience in addition to two exams. It takes four or more years, on average, to complete the CFA program, with candidates logging more than 300 study hours per exam level.
• CPA: Most CPAs have earned a bachelor’s degree, and several pursue an MBA with a specialization in accounting or a master’s degree in accountancy. The licensing exam varies by state but is typically spread over two days.
• CGFM and CMA: The CGFM and CMA designations require a bachelor’s degree or accounting certificate and a minimum of two years of professional experience in addition to passing three exams.
• EA: The EA designation requires five years of experience or a passing score on the three-part SEE.

How long does it take to get an accounting certification?

Depending on the certification, you should expect to study between 150 and 300 hours for the exam.

Which accounting certification is most valuable?

Many people consider the CPA the most valuable certification because of its versatility and general demand by employers and clients (for CPA consultants). CGFM, CMA and CFA certification holders and seasoned CPAs have the highest earning potential, with salaries over $100,000 that can easily climb above $140,000 with experience.

Where do you find the right certification for you?

Certifications are usually connected to specializations in the accounting and financial fields. When looking into which certifications might be right for you, first consider which areas of finance and accounting interest you. Courses are available across all the various certifications in colleges and other educational institutions.

What are the benefits of being certified as opposed to not being certified?

Certifications indicate a high level of commitment and skill, helping people expand their finance and accounting career opportunities. Certifications can also lead to more internal promotions, as many professionals without their CPA certification hit a professional plateau. When a financial professional is certified, clients feel more confident in an institution’s or accounting firm’s ability to manage their money.

Sean Peek contributed to the writing and research in this article.

Many financial planners have an interest in becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). But while some understand what they are getting into when they decide to take the exam — the cost, the time it will take, and how having the charter will help their careers — others don't. 

Before you make that decision, it is crucial to understand that earning the CFA designation is a grueling process. You need to consider whether the benefits for your career outweigh the challenges associated with studying for and passing three notably difficult exams (the pass rate for the August 2022 CFA level 1 exam was 37%).

As one who has passed the exam and created materials for others hoping to pass, here's my advice.

Education and career benefits
The charter may enhance your career mobility and earning potential by giving you a leg up on other job candidates and colleagues. The operative word here is "may." Career progression involves many variables, many of which you will likely have limited control over. But having an additional credential, especially one as universally recognized as the CFA charter, will never hurt you.

Even if you work as an independent financial advisor, having the charter can help you. Many advisors have earned the Certified Financial Planner designation, which, as the name suggests, focuses on overall financial planning for individuals. The curriculum for the CFP exam covers areas such as retirement planning and insurance needs. The CFA exam, by contrast, focuses more on financial analytics. An advisor with both designations will likely be better positioned to assist clients map out a strategy for financial success and to recommend the best investments for executing on the strategy. And since just about 5% to 10% of CFPs also carry the CFA designation, holding it can help set you apart. 

There are several financial career paths where being a CFA charterholder is a significant advantage and one of those areas is investment management. As that sector becomes more commoditized and competitive it becomes increasingly imperative for investment professionals to earn additional accreditation as a way to differentiate themselves from the rest of the pack.

As for skills, charterholders can be an advantage when it comes to areas including  asset management for nonprofits; equity or fixed income analysis;  quantitative analysis; academia; and, last but not least,  financial planning.

The average salary for an MBA degree-holder is $135,000, compared to $93,000 for a CFA charterholder. However, an MBA program can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000 and take two years to complete — or longer if you pursue it as a part-time student. The CFA exams cost $3,000 and require approximately 300 hours of study per exam. However, the potential income differential should not be the deciding factor between these two designations as the programs are completely different in focus. The right choice is very much driven by the type of career you want to pursue.

Getting — and keeping — the job
I'm often asked by accurate graduates, "How do I make myself bulletproof in this industry?" Employment in the financial world is very much tied to the economy, and in tough economic times, there will be layoffs. Earning the CFA charter is one step you can take to maximize your chances of survival when companies are reducing headcount. The additional knowledge you receive from studying for the exams, as well as the dedication you show by setting and achieving a difficult goal, will show your employer flexibility and dedication.  

In order to earn the CFA designation, one must demonstrate a deep understanding in investment analysis of different financial assets, of management and of ethics. In the process, you will gain knowledge, add an impressive credential to your CV and boost your reputation. Investment professionals know the dedication and time it takes to earn the charter. When they see that you have earned it, they recognize that you possess superb analytical skills, ethical grounding and dedication. 

Pass or fail
Each level of the CFA curriculum and exam are different in subject matter and format. Level I focuses on fundamentals, such as bond pricing and probability concepts. Level II covers the same Topics as Level I, but in far more detail and with a focus on real-world application of the concepts. In Level III, the most advanced level, candidates are expected to perform sophisticated analysis on multiple asset classes and to explain their decisions and conclusions. Level III is also different in terms of format. Whereas Levels I and II are composed of  multiple-choice questions, Level III is split between multiple choice and essay questions. Note that ethics comprise a significant portion of all three levels on the exam. 

In 2021, pass rates for all three levels plunged to record lows, causing lot of hand-wringing among current and future candidates who wondered whether it was "too technical" that year; if CFA Institute had decided to raise the minimum passing score; or whether pandemic-related disruptions and other reasons factored into the dramatic plunge.

To me, the "why" of  the dropped pass rate is irrelevant. If you're studying for an exam, you want to be in that passing group, so it's more important to do what's necessary to pass, rather than look for reasons why you might not. The CFA exams are hard but fair, and the bottom line is that if you study, you pass. By studying, I mean that you need to devote yourself to the goal. Although you can't ignore your fundamental obligations to work and family, at the same time, you must recognize that you can't go out with friends after work because that represents time you could be studying. Turn off the TV and shut off the phone — or at least turn off social media).

I believe that there are three main reasons why people fail the CFA exams: you allow yourself to be too distracted; you don't study for at least 300 hours for each level;  and/or you don't have a strategy to take the exam.

Here are two tips to help you pass:

•  Set a schedule and stick to it: Create a balance between the time you need to study and when you need to do other things. I passed all three levels the first time and it wasn't luck: I worked very hard because I was motivated. I didn't want to have to study for it again. Develop the discipline to schedule different aspects of your life so you set yourself up for success.

• Time the arc of your studying so that on exam day you're at the peak. Ideally, when you walk into that test center, you're never going to know more about this material. Don't fill your head with information months in advance and then do minimal studying until you take the exam. It's difficult to force yourself to keep studying when you finished your primary studying months before the exam, and you likely won't retain as much from that initial effort as you might think.

The CFA is not for everyone, but nearly everyone who has earned the charter agrees that the effort was worthwhile. Do you have the dedication and discipline to put in the effort? If so, then the path to the charter is a great journey to embark on.

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

It is always a sad day when a financial adviser receives a call that a client has passed away or experienced a tragic event.

Throughout their careers, advisers navigate many types of life events in partnership with their clients and can be a valuable resource for the family. Usually, they have checklists, relationships with estate planning attorneys and tax professionals, and contacts in the community who can assist with managing change.

But what happens if it’s the adviser who dies?

Understanding your adviser’s work will help you understand what to do in this scenario. Those who are licensed as investment adviser representatives (IARs) act on behalf of their clients with a third-party custodian, such as Charles Schwab or Fidelity.

If an unexpected death or disability occurs, your money is safe and will be accessible at the custodian’s institution. The adviser may buy and sell investments for their clients, but the custodian holds the money, tracks the cost basis and generates the statements and tax forms.

As a client of the custodian, you will have access to your investments, statements and tax forms. But without an adviser, your account will not be actively managed. Hopefully, your adviser had a succession plan in place, and the transition to a new adviser whom you find professional, trustworthy, and likable will be simple. If not, you will need to begin the process of finding a new financial adviser.

Searching for an adviser

In your search, consider looking for a financial adviser who is a certified financial planner. This designation is considered the top credential for a financial adviser. To become a CFP, the adviser must complete the following four Es:

— Education: A CFP candidate must complete coursework on financial planning through a registered program and hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

—Exam: Candidates for the CFP certification must pass a rigorous exam, which assesses the candidate’s ability to apply financial-planning knowledge to real-life situations.

—Experience: A CFP candidate must complete 6,000 hours of professional experience related to financial planning, or 4,000 hours of apprenticeship experience that meets additional experience within 10 years before or five years after passing the CFP exam.

—Ethics: A CFP acts as a fiduciary, which means acting solely in the best interest of their client when providing financial advice. The certifying board conducts a detailed background check on all candidates. Once a CFP is designated, they take a bi-annual ethics exam. Passing is mandatory to maintain the designation.

Checking their credentials

To be sure about licensure, conduct an internet search for potential advisers’ names and review their websites, including partner profiles, services offered, industries served and any information for potential clients.

Access to the internet has made researching credentials a much easier task. You’ll want to confirm that the adviser is licensed, has a clear record and is not using a designation that they do not have. Three great places to do that research are:

—FINRA BrokerCheck: Commission-based brokers, and insurance or annuity salespeople are governed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Use the FINRA BrokerCheck tool to investigate their history and qualifications. Visit brokercheck.finra.org.

—The Security Exchange Commission Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website: Use this site for due diligence on fee-only registered investment advisers (RIAs). Visit adviserinfo.sec.gov. FINRA’s BrokerCheck website will connect you to the SEC’s site if the individual works solely as a fee-based adviser.

—The CFP Board’s online database: All CFPs are listed in this database, so you can verify each adviser’s credentials. Visit letsmakeaplan.org .

CFP.net also offers resources to help with this task. Posted on the site is a list of questions to ask a potential adviser. The list can be found at letsmakeaplan.org/how-to-choose-a-planner/10-questions-to-ask-your-financial-adviser.

Ask an adviser is paid

Fee-only advisers are paid either a percentage of assets under management or a set project or hourly fee rate. This fee typically starts at 1% of the assets under management and scales down as assets increase.

A fee-only adviser does not receive any commission or other payments from the providers of financial products that they recommend. Fee-only advisers have a fiduciary duty to their clients, meaning they must place the client’s best interests first.

Fee-based advisers are paid by the client but may also receive income from other sources. For instance, they may receive commissions on financial products they sell to their clients. This relationship has the potential to create a conflict of interest. However, in the right circumstances, a fee-based adviser is charged with the same fiduciary duty as a fee-only adviser, so it’s important to understand how your adviser is being compensated.

Commission-only advisers earn their income by receiving commissions on the products they sell. Those products may include financial instruments, such as insurance policies, annuities, and mutual funds. The more transactions they complete or the more accounts they open, the more they are paid. Similar to a fee-based adviser, this payment structure has the potential to create a conflict of interest, or at least call into question whether the adviser has only your best interests in mind.

Questions to ask

Prior to engaging with an adviser, ask if they have a succession plan in place. This plan will outline a business contingency plan if your adviser retires, becomes disabled, or unexpectedly dies. A succession plan could include a younger partner who is geographically close and affiliated with the same investment management firm and custodian.

You’ll also want to understand their personal niche. To do this, ask the adviser what types of clients they serve. The adviser could be a generalist, assisting many different clients with many different needs, or they could specialize in a specific demographic. Specializations could include women, athletes, widows, doctors, business owners, or ultra-high net-worth families. You’ll want to find someone who aligns with your needs.

Lastly, be sure to ask about expected communication. Remember, advisers are running a business and should set clear expectations about how — and how often — they will communicate with you. Ask the adviser what their practice is for returning phone calls and emails.

When you leave a message for them, should you expect to hear from them personally? Or will their assistant be responding? And, how quickly? It is standard business practice for an adviser to return a call or email by the end of the day or, at the latest, within 24 hours. Also ask how often you should plan to meet with the adviser. Are these meetings typically in person or virtual?

Following your discovery work, set up an initial meeting. It is a best practice to interview at least two advisers. Ask to review their engagement letter (that is, the contract that you will be signing with the adviser), and inquire about what the process and timeline will be to open new accounts and transfer your assets.

Don’t be afraid to ask many questions. After all, you want to find an adviser who aligns with your goals and objectives, while placing your best interests first.

Teri Parker is a vice president for CAPTRUST Financial Advisors. She has practiced in the field of financial planning and investment management since 2000. Reach her via email at Teri.parker@captrustadvisors.com.

• CPAs are accountants who are tax experts.
• Before you start your business, you should meet with a CPA for tax advice on which business structure will save you money and the accounting method you should use.
• If you’re audited, a CPA can represent you before the IRS.
• This article is for small business owners who want to know when they should seek services from a CPA.

As a small business owner, you may find it difficult to gauge when to outsource responsibilities or handle them on your own. This is especially true in the case of a certified public accountant (CPA), especially if you’ve just started your business or if your company has grown beyond an expected size. 

While you can certainly take care of the day-to-day accounting yourself – especially if you have good accounting software – or hire a bookkeeper, there are instances when the expertise of a CPA can help you make sound business decisions, avoid costly mistakes and save you time.

What is a CPA?

CPAs are tax experts who can file your business’s taxes, answer important financial questions and potentially save your business money. While CPAs have accounting degrees, their certification differs from traditional accountants.

[Related Article: What’s the Difference Between Accountants and Bookkeepers?]

CPAs have passed the Uniform CPA exam – a rigorous exam that tests one’s understanding of tax law and standard accounting practices – and obtained a state license, which includes ethical requirements. They must take professional education courses to maintain their license, and may lose it if they are convicted of fraud, negligence or ethics violations. Furthermore, CPAs have unlimited representation rights to negotiate with the IRS on your behalf.

Key takeaway: A CPA is a specialized type of accountant with tax expertise who can represent you before the IRS.

CPA vs. accountant

An accountant is someone who has earned their bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. A CPA has a bachelor’s degree, but has earned additional designations upon graduation.

To become certified, an accountant must have work experience, pass the Uniform CPA Exam, and meet all state licensing requirements. The exam covers their knowledge of business, accounting, tax and auditing. Additionally, CPAs are required to take continuing education courses throughout their careers to stay up to date on laws and regulations.

Because of this certification, a CPA has a fiduciary responsibility to their clients, while an accountant does not. This means CPAs are legally required to act in the best interest of their clients, whereas a standard accountant does not have a license to lose.

Key takeaway: A CPA is also an accountant, but only about 50% of accountants are also licensed CPAs.  

What does a CPA do?

CPAs can wear many hats for your small business. They handle bookkeeping, preparing important financial documentation (e.g., tax documents and profit-and-loss statements), financial planning and tax filing, among other tasks.

They can also provide sound financial advice for your business as you continue to grow, so you can concentrate on running your business. These are the general responsibilities you can expect from a CPA:

• Tax filing, planning and advice: CPAs are qualified to handle all of your business tax needs, including year-round recordkeeping and filing tax extensions with the IRS.
• Tax and financial compliance: If you are audited, CPAs can reduce the cost of audit findings by negotiating with the IRS on your behalf. Because of their extensive knowledge, CPAs can catch financial and tax problems before they become an issue, thus preventing an audit.
• Consulting: CPAs can assist you with important financial decisions, budgets, financial risk management problems, and other financial services. They can also provide valuable advice on complicated financial matters.
• Forensic accounting: CPAs can help monitor your books and prevent fraud.
• Payroll: If you’re not already using top payroll software, CPAs can set your business up with a platform that works for your company.
• Bookkeeping: CPAs are qualified to help you create, maintain and review financial books throughout your business lifecycle.

Key takeaway: In addition to bookkeeping and payroll, a CPA assists with tax advice, planning and compliance. They can also consult with you on your budget and other complex financial matters.

What’s the average cost of hiring a CPA?

The short answer is that it depends largely on your business and the services you need. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for CPAs is $40. This may not, however, cover specific fees for certain services and consultations.

It’s important to have an idea of the kind of services you need before you meet with a prospective CPA. This way, you can have a clear discussion on how they are going to bill you.

By itemizing costs, you can gain a realistic idea of how the CPA could help your organization thrive. You’ll also be able to weigh the cost and benefits of outsourcing certain services that you may be able to complete through a software program or other means.

While it’s hard to pin down a concrete number for how much you can expect to pay a CPA, it is important to have a knowledge of typical fees and expenses. These are some typical expenses to review before you meet with a CPA:

• Hourly rates
• Administrative fees
• Paperwork fees
• Other fees and services

Key takeaway: The national median wage for a CPA is $40 per hour. Before hiring a CPA, ask about their hourly rate and other potential fees that apply.

Editor’s note: Looking for the right accounting software solution for your business? Fill out the below questionnaire to have our vendor partners contact you about your needs.

When you should hire a CPA?

You don’t necessarily need to hire a CPA as a full-time or even part-time employee to benefit from their knowledge of the ins and outs of business finance, as many offer their services as consultants. These are times you should consider hiring a CPA:

1. Before you start your business

When you’re launching a business and money is tight, the idea of paying hundreds of dollars for a few hours with a CPA may seem extravagant. However, like many other startup costs, it’s an investment (and it’s a deductible expense).

A CPA can help you set up your business so you can avoid costly mistakes. These are some of the decisions a CPA can assist you with as you get your business up and running:

• Your business structure: CPAs can recommend the best business structure for your company. The legal structure you use to set up your business – sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or co-op – affects your taxes, liability and reporting requirements. It can also be difficult to change later on, possibly requiring you to reapply for licenses, get a new employer identification number, or notify your bank and insurance company.
• Your accounting practice: A CPA will help you determine whether cash or accrual accounting is the best fit for your business. When you’re setting up your accounting software, one of the first questions it asks is which type of accounting you use. Generally, new businesses use cash accounting – as it’s simpler – but there are instances when the IRS requires accrual accounting, such as if you sell goods to consumers and maintain an inventory. The alternative is the accrual method – recording income and expenses when they’re billed rather than when you receive the money.

2. Tax time

CPAs can prepare tax documents, file tax returns, and strategize ways to minimize your tax liability for the following year. Also, CPAs can represent you if the IRS has questions about your return or if you or your business are audited, which is an important consideration. 

Business taxes are different from personal taxes; even if you’ve always done your taxes yourself, you may want to hire a CPA if your tax situation is complex. For instance, if you hire employees, or if you sell products to customers in multiple states or countries, hiring a CPA to file your taxes can save you time and heartache.

These are other ways CPAs can assist you with your taxes:

• Compliance with tax laws: CPAs help you understand and comply with tax changes. When the tax code changes, such as it did with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a CPA can help you understand if and how the changes affect your business.
• Appropriate deductions: CPAs help you understand which deductions you qualify for. While you want to take as many deductions as you’re entitled to, you also don’t want to make questionable deductions that may trigger an audit. A CPA can help you decide when you should – or shouldn’t – take certain deductions.

These are some instances when you might need a CPA’s advice:

• You’re starting a business and need to know which startup costs are deductible.
• Your business started as a hobby and you want to know how the IRS will classify your company.
• Your home and small business intermingle, and you’re not sure which expenses are deductible. For instance, can you deduct your home office if you also have a desk at another location? If your vehicle is primarily used for work, should you or your business own it? Is your cell phone a business expense? If you take a business trip and extend it for a few vacation days, which expenses can you deduct?

3. Special circumstances

As you run your business, there may be specific instances when you need a CPA’s expertise. For example, if you receive a letter from the IRS notifying you that you’re being audited, or even if it simply requests additional information about your return, you should hire a CPA to represent you. CPAs have experience dealing with the IRS and can help you respond appropriately, supply the information it needs, and resolve the issue as painlessly as possible.

These are some other situations that may prompt you to hire a CPA:

• If you’re thinking about taking out a small business loan, a CPA can help you decide if financing fits your long-term goals. They can recommend the best type of loan for your business, figure out the size of the loan and how payments will impact your cash flow, and prepare financial statements for your loan applications.
• When events in your personal life have the potential to affect your business finances or structure, you may need to hire a CPA – such as if a business partner who is also a family member passes away, or if the business is a marital asset and you’re getting a divorce. CPAs can advise you on whether the event has tax implications, help calculate the value of the business, or prepare financial statements for a sale.

4. When you acquire, merge, sell or close

When you’re facing significant structural or operational changes to your organization – such as purchasing a business, merging with another company, planning to sell or close your business, or deciding whether to take on a new partner or dissolve a partnership – you should consult a CPA about the tax implications for your business and for yourself.

If you’re purchasing a business, a CPA can help you analyze its financial records, verify its assets, and perform your due diligence. If you’re selling your business, a CPA can provide you an idea of the fair market value of your business, and prepare your financial reports and statements.

When you have a serious buyer, they expect you to have perfect accounting records, with an accurate valuation – and you may lose potential buyers or receive a lower offer if you don’t meet these expectations.

Key takeaway: You should plan to meet with a CPA before you start your business, at tax time, when you have complex financial decisions to make, or when you plan to make major changes to the ownership of the business.

What to consider when hiring a CPA

Hiring a qualified CPA can be a lifesaver come tax season, but as you can see, a CPA can help you at every stage of your business. If you’re searching for the right person, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. Look for a CPA who’s familiar with your industry.

It’s important to find a CPA who’s familiar with your industry and the needs of businesses like yours. For instance, if you run an e-commerce business, then your accountant should have experience with serving online companies.

2. Ask for referrals from other business owners.

If you’re friendly with other business owners in your area, ask them for recommendations. The best place to start is a local networking group. If you don’t have anyone to ask for a referral, you can search the American Institute of CPAs.

3. Make sure they’re registered in your state.

Before you hire anyone, use the CPA Verify tool to check that individual’s certification status to ensure they are up to date with their requirements.

4. Check their reputation.

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.

Lori Fairbanks and Matt D’Angelo contributed to the writing and research in this article.

More than 50 certifications now qualify individuals to sit for the CSCA exam

MONTVALE, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / February 16, 2023 / IMA^®, the association of accountants and financial professionals in business, has expanded its CSCA^® (Certified in Strategy and Competitive Analysis) certification program to professionals from other certification groups who now qualify for the certification and can sit for the exam.

The CSCA certification complements the planning and analysis skills acquired from the CMA^® (Certified Management Accountant) certification and previously, only CMA-certified professionals were eligible for the CSCA. The skills acquired by earning the accounting and finance certifications that now qualify for the CSCA also provide a strong knowledge base to master the skills of the CSCA. A list of newly eligible certifications that qualify for the CSCA is available here.

The CSCA helps professionals master the concepts and techniques that are required to become key players in driving strategic planning at their organizations. With increased automation in businesses, it is more important for organizations to have strategic professionals leading the finance teams.

"With routine tasks becoming automated, upskilling is essential for all professionals," said Srikrishna Mankal, CMA, Chair, ICMA^® (Institute of Certified Management Accountants) Board of Regents. "Professionals need to learn on a continuous basis to be effective leaders, which is one of the reasons why we are opening the CSCA to select accounting and finance certification holders. The knowledge gained from the CSCA will foster career development for all those that earn the certification."

Those that are interested in earning the CSCA sit for one three-hour exam consisting of 60 multiple choice questions and one case study. Passing the exam qualifies the individual for 30 ICMA CPE credits. The CSCA is available for testing in March and September every year.

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For more information on the CSCA, visit https://www.imanet.org/en/IMA-Certifications/CSCA-Certification.

About IMA^® (Institute of Management Accountants)
IMA^® is one of the largest and most respected associations focused exclusively on advancing the management accounting profession. Globally, IMA supports the profession through research, the CMA^® (Certified Management Accountant) and CSCA^® (Certified in Strategy and Competitive Analysis) programs, continuing education, networking, and advocacy of the highest ethical business practices. Twice named Professional Body of the Year by The Accountant/International Accounting Bulletin, IMA has a global network of about 140,000 members in 150 countries and 350 professional and student chapters. Headquartered in Montvale, N.J., USA, IMA provides localized services through its four global regions: The Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe and Middle East/India. For more information about IMA, please visit www.imanet.org.

CONTACT:
Giuseppe Barone
IMA
(201) 474-1681
giuseppe.barone@imanet.org

Brian Sherry
Stern Strategy Group
(908) 325-3860
ima@sternstrategy.com

SOURCE: IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants)

View source version on accesswire.com:
https://www.accesswire.com/739572/IMA-Expands-CSCA-Certification-Eligibility

New Delhi [India], February 18 (ANI/PNN): The finance and investment industry is well-known for being fast-paced and highly competitive. Thanks to this competitive spirit, finance and banking professionals are driven by this urge to take their careers to new heights. Naturally, they go for the CFA certification to emerge as efficient and ethical investment professionals.

However, getting through all three levels of the CFA exam is not something easy to comprehend. QuintEdge is a Finance exams preparation platform which makes sure that all candidates practise and prepare for the exams conveniently.

QuintEdge is the brainchild of CA Yash Jain, an FRM, CFA, and investment banking trainer who has trained 5,000+ candidates in FRM, CFA, financial modelling, valuations, and corporate finance. The company was born out of Yash's vision to bridge the gap in the space of finance education in India.

The company's learning platform is equipped with more than 2,000+ practice questions, including adaptive practice MCQs with solutions, summary notes, and videos to offer a well-rounded preparation experience to individuals. The study modules ensure that every student is prepared in all aspects of finance and investment before taking the actual exams.

"At QuintEdge, our motto is to ensure that every student has learnt the actual concept and has been able to develop strong fundamentals. Hence, we use real-life examples, story-telling techniques, and software to make the students visualise the tough formulas and not just mug them up," says CA Yash Jain, Co-Founder of QuintEdge.

QunitEdge is led by its expert team of faculties, consisting of industry veterans who belong to companies like Bain, Goldman Sachs, and other top investment banks. The platform emphasises providing its students with a top-notch learning experience from industry experts and experienced professionals, making it unlike any other CFA coaching platform in the market.

Yash further elaborates, "We believe that education extends way beyond classroom teaching. Hence, we not only coach our students from the examination point of view but also prepare them for getting a job in the field of finance."

Owing to its uncompromising focus on quality coaching support, the company has also achieved an 88 per cent candidate success rate collectively in CFA exams in the past 4 attempts, collectively and is now all set to touch new heights of success.

More About Quintedge & Future Plans

QuintEdge, a one-of-its-kind Finance exam preparation platform, aims to reach 1 million learners on its platform by December 2023. Currently, the platform already has more than 100K learners enlisted. As the company is striving to attain a new milestone in terms of the total number of learners on the platform, it also plans to touch and transform the lives of more people with its CFA exam preparation services.

This story is provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PNN)

The MarketWatch News Department was not involved in the creation of this content.

Feb 07, 2023 (The Expresswire) -- Pre and Post Covid Report Is Covered | Final Report Will Add the Analysis of the Impact of Russia-Ukraine War and COVID-19 on This Industry.

[119 Pages Report]"Automotive Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) Market" size is projected to reach Multimillion USD by 2029, In comparison to 2023, at unexpected CAGR during 2023-2029 and generated magnificent revenue. This study provides all the most accurate market facts and trends for your business analytics and strategic decision-making. This Automotive Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) Market research report is meant to be helpful to all business owners, investors, and stakeholders in the industry. It provides significant insights into the factors affecting the global Automotive Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) market and the industry's yearly growth.

The MarketWatch News Department was not involved in the creation of this content.

This year, United States taxpayers must file their income tax forms before the April 18, 2023 deadline. For many people, major life changes, business ownership, or simply a lack of knowledge about the ever-changing tax laws make finding a trustworthy tax preparer a good idea. That said, not all tax preparers have the same level of experience and training. Here are tips for finding someone you can trust with your finances and sensitive personal information.

Which type of tax preparer is right for you?

First, it’s important to understand the different types of tax preparers and their qualifications. Only enrolled agents, certified public accounts, and attorneys may represent their clients to the IRS on matters such as audits, collection issues, and appeals.

Enrolled Agent: An EA is a tax preparer that has been approved by the IRS to represent taxpayers. An EA must either have prior qualifying employment with the IRS or pass an intensive two-day exam on federal taxation and complete a background check. To maintain EA status, they must complete a specified number of credit hours each year of continuing education in accounting methods and tax regulations. An EA may work independently or as part of a firm and specialize in specific areas of tax law.

An EA is a good option if you have a more complex tax situation. However, you’ll want to make sure their area of expertise applies to your personal situation. Fees and availability may vary, but you can expect an EA to charge less than a CPA. An EA is also qualified to help you with financial planning and provide you tips that could help you reduce your taxes in the future.

Certified Public Accountants: CPAs have a college degree (or the equivalent in work experience). They are licensed after passing a state professional qualifying exam. They are highly skilled in accounting. This makes them good candidates for complex tax planning and preparation if they are experienced in handling tax matters and enrolled in continuing education programs that keep them abreast of the constant changes to tax laws. If your return is quite complex, a CPA may be your best choice for tax preparation, but keep in mind they will charge much more than basic tax preparers.

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Attorneys: Tax attorneys often charge the highest fees as tax preparers. For taxpayers looking to shelter part of their income legally or for those who need specialized advice on municipal bonds, estate planning, and the like, hiring a tax attorney is a good option.

Non-Credentialed tax preparers: There are about 700,000 people who work as non-credentialed tax preparers in the United States. They often work part-time or only during the tax season. These preparers must have an active preparer tax identification number through the IRS, but beyond that, regulating tax preparers is done at the state level. In the vast majority of states, anyone can prepare tax returns for others without having to take an exam, get a license, or comply with other government regulations.

Most tax preparers are legitimate and competent, but keep in mind that without a national license requirement, they may be working off of their own personal research and experience. Because of this, it is important you conduct a thorough interview with the tax preparer before you hire them.

How to choose the right tax preparer.

When it comes to choosing the right kind of tax preparer for you personally, much will depend on the complexity of your tax situation. After you’ve decided what qualifications your tax preparer needs, the following tips will help you choose someone who is trustworthy and competent:

• Review the tax preparer’s credentials. EAs, CPAs, and tax attorneys are all qualified to represent their clients to the IRS on all matters. Other preparers can help you with forms and basic matters but cannot represent you in case of an audit. Don’t be afraid to ask about these or other qualifications before you hire someone.

• Be wary of spectacular promises. If a tax preparer promises you larger refunds than the competition, this is a red flag. Many such tax preparers base their fees on the amount of your return and may be likely to use shady tax preparation tactics. In addition, it’s wise to avoid tax preparers who offer “refund anticipation loans” as you’ll probably lose a large percentage of your return to commission fees.

• Get referrals from friends and family. One of the best ways to find a trustworthy tax preparer is to ask your loved ones for recommendations. Once you have a few options, check BBB.org, paying careful attention to other consumers’ reviews or complaint details. This will provide you a clear view of what you can expect.

• Think about availability. If the IRS finds errors in your tax forms or decides to perform an audit, will your tax preparer be available to help you with the details? Find out whether you can contact the tax preparer all year long or only during tax season.

• Ask about fees ahead of time. Before you agree to any services, read the contracts carefully and understand how much the tax preparer charges for their services. Ask about extra fees for e-filing state, federal, and local returns, as well as fees for any unexpected complications.

• If things don’t add up, find someone else. If a tax preparer can’t verify their credentials, has a record of bad reviews from previous clients, or their business practices don’t seem convincing, don’t do business with them. Remember that if you hire them, this individual will handle your sensitive personal information – information you need to keep safe from corrupt or fraudulent tax preparers.

Go to BBB.org to read more about protecting yourself from ID scams and to get tax tips and resources. You can also read more about BBB accredited tax preparers near you who follow the BBB Standards of Trust.

Rick Walz is the President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Northern Indiana, which serves 23 counties. Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit www.bbb.org.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Consumer Advocate: Tips for finding a trustworthy tax preparer