You can earn certification from the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) and the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB). The NACPB offers a certified public bookkeeper (CPB) certification, while the CPB offers a certified bookkeeper (CB) certification. Both the CPB and CB certifications require similar eligibility requirements. In these programs, you can learn accounting principles, accounting software, payroll, how to prepare financial statements, and more. Earning a bookkeeping certificate can be a valuable investment in your bookkeeping or accounting career. While it is not required, completing a comprehensive course from a reputable institution boosts your skills and demonstrates to potential employers that you’re reliable and dedicated.
As an independent business owner, you’ll have to learn how to do your freelancing taxes too. A bookkeeper is skilled at keeping documents and tracks a wide net of financial information. Bookkeeping is a great starting point if you are interested in the field but not fully committed and want to test the waters. You may also be an ideal bookkeeping candidate if you want a good job with a respectable wage and decent security but may not be looking for a long-term career.
Common Questions About How to Get Bookkeeping Certification
The distinctions between accounting and bookkeeping are subtle yet essential. Bookkeepers record a business’s day-to-day financial transactions. The two careers are similar, and accountants and bookkeepers often work side by side. However, significant differences exist, like work conducted in each career and needed to be successful. professional bookkeeper The following analysis compares the education requirements, skills required, typical starting salaries, and job outlooks for accounting and bookkeepers. They may also assist with payroll processing, budgeting, and maintaining financial records in accordance with established accounting principles and procedures.
This makes bookkeeping a popular choice for those without degrees or those ready for a career change. Department of Labor’s Occupational Handbook, some of the most in-demand accounting jobs include comptroller, accounting manager, senior tax accountant, and internal auditors. For a long-term career, accounting offers much more upward mobility and income potential. The education required to be competitive in the field is greater, but the payoff down the road can be considerably higher.
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However, certified professionals may enjoy advantages in the job market. At the same time, the number of predicted bookkeeping job openings per year over that period is 197,600. Compare this to the expected 136,400 annual openings for accountants and auditors (BLS, September 2022).
After your 7-day free trial period ends, the certificate costs $39/month in the US and Canada as part of Coursera’s subscription service. This certificate can be completed in four months, so for many learners, it costs around $160 USD. Learn how to work through the phases of the accounting cycle to produce key financial statements. If you’re just launching your bookkeeping career, a professional certification can set you apart from the competition.
Can you make a career out of bookkeeping?
These requirements are the same for all U.S. professionals, regardless of state residency. However, employers in other countries may not recognize AIPB or NACPB credentials. Bookkeepers working internationally should research other globally recognized credentialing options. Maybe you enjoy the idea of being your own boss, or you’re still wondering if it’s for you. Becoming a certified bookkeeper enhances your credibility and increases your earning potential.
- Of course, a background in accounting practices will help you ride out a learning curve as a new bookkeeper.
- Another key responsibility for accountants includes conducting routine audits to ensure that statements and the books are following ethical and industry standards.
- Some bookkeepers may also have to facilitate financial transactions and ensure transactions are legally compliant.
- She is a former Google Tech Entrepreneur and she holds an MSc in International Marketing from Edinburgh Napier University.
- These offices may have particular insights about companies and roles in their area.