What does a CPA do?
Certified public accountants are officially designated accountants who serve the public interest, have fulfilled certain licensing and certification requirements, and have passed the CPA exam. They commonly provide a range of financial services including tax advice and preparation, bookkeeping, payroll services, and support with audits. They prepare balance sheets, profit & loss statements, and other financial documentation. They may also provide advice related to financial areas such as investing, paying for college, or retirement planning.
Certified public accountants have a CPA license and have successfully passed the associated exam. They typically also have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. They must have in-depth expertise with a wide range of accounting practices and issues, including auditing and tax return preparation. Proficiency with common accounting and bookkeeping software programs is helpful.
How much does a CPA make near United States?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$124,979
/ yrCPA Career Path
Learn how to become a CPA, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
CPA Insights
Tesco“Flexibility with hours which was good for me as a part time job during a levels”
Bey & Associates“Good pay and it sounded good”
Summit CPA Group“Amazing flexibly and great team to work with.”
Harry C. Lin, CPA“Good training and good for CPAs.”
Commission on Audit“life balance and good compensation”
GAAP Point-of-Sale“No work and life balance”
PwC“Kind and career development for future”
PBMares“Good people and mission.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a CPA
- Management Accountant
- Accountant
- Accounting Manager
- Cost Accountant