The different roles of bookkeepers, accountants, and Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) is often a confusing subject for many. The origin of confusion typically lies in the fact that all three professions share fiscal responsibility for the organizations, companies, and individuals for whom they work.
Bookkeepers
As recordkeeping professionals who often work as freelancers for small businesses, bookkeepers are mainly responsible for maintaining accounting records, generating invoices, posting debits and credits and processing payroll. Accountants and Certified Public Accountants often view bookkeeping as a more clerical role. Because bookkeepers usually do not have the education credentials accountants and Certified Public Accountants are required to have, they often receive most of their training and experience while on the job.
Accountants
Individuals who work as accountants may work for an accounting firm or within the accounting department of a larger business. A four-year university degree is typically required to work as an accountant. Daily duties of the position include working with accounting clerks who perform billing, make ledger entries and handle payroll. Accountants are typically mid-level employees who report to accounting managers, financial directors and company controllers.
Certified Public Accountants
Certified Public Accountants are among the most educated of accounting professionals. They are required to complete a focused education in accounting and must successfully complete the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Exam. Certified Public Accountants may work for other companies, or they can open their own offices to offer their accounting services to the general public. With more education and certification comes increased responsibility. A Certified Public Accountant may perform auditing, financial and tax services for businesses, nonprofits and individuals taxpayers. Certification as a public accountant must be renewed every two years; continuing education is required to keep the designation current.
Everyday people and businesses that require help with filing taxes and other areas of their financial health should seek out the services of a CPA. Not only do Certified Public Accountants possess the knowledge and training to assist individuals and organizations, but their profession is also regulated by state and federal bodies that set ethical and conduct standards that must be met. Gary Kaplan is a Certified Public Accountant who is licensed to work with clients in Florida, New York, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Utah. To learn more about the services a qualified Certified Public Accountant can provide, visit gkaplancpa.com
