Accountant and Auditor

What Accounts and Auditors Do

Accountants and auditors work for a variety of offices and companies, but they are essentially in charge of keeping a business' or individual's taxes and financial reports organized and legal. They work as a go-between for companies or individuals and government institutions that regulate financial transactions, taxes, and auditing, as well as advise on investments, financial planning, savings, retirement, and legal issues. Most accountants work for either government offices, in public auditing, internal auditing, or management accounting. Within each specialty, the job description varies, and some accountants may find themselves working in more legal and investigative careers, while others help families or nonprofit organizations organize financial records. Accountants and auditors use software systems to help them with everyday tasks, and must also have a working knowledge of all the different forms and systems used by government agencies, the IRS, securities regulators, and other officials they work with.

How to Become an Accounts or Auditor

A bachelor's degree is required to become an accountant or auditor, and while a business degree is the most popular and directly applicable to the field, it isn't necessarily required. Math and economics will also prepare you for a job, as well as a job in general business or a specialization in accounting, finance, or even management. A master's degree isn't always needed for entry-level work, but i can help you work your way up in the field, and many young professionals pursue their CPA (Certified Public Accountant) licensure to raise their potential salary and become more competitive in the job market. If you want to file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission, you must be a CPA, for example. You can become licensed by the State Board of Accountancy, and by passing a national exam and meeting certain specific state requirements, you can become a CPA and find jobs virtually anywhere in the country.

Career Outlook for Accountants and Auditors

While around eight percent of accountants and auditors were self-employed in the United States in 2008, the majority of professionals work for firms, government agencies, bookkeeping and tax offices, and related organizations. The majority of jobs are found in cities, but jobs are available throughout the country. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that jobs for accountants and auditors will grow much faster than the national average, at a rate near 22%. As new regulations and laws are instituted and more businesses open, the demand for skilled accountants will also rise. Those who have earned their CPA will have the best opportunity for jobs, and many accountants also teach at colleges and universities to increase the earning potential. Accountants who have experience or education in information technology or international business will also find that jobs are plentiful. The average salary for accountants who work for tax preparation, bookkeeping and accounting firms was $61,480 in May 2008, while those who worked for state and local governments earned between $51,250 and $53,660.