Prepare and examine financial records. Ensure accuracy and that taxes are paid properly.
Pay
$52,780
Lower reported wage
$81,680
Median
$141,420
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.
CPA is a state-issued license, not a requirement for every accounting job. Check the intended services and state-board rules. NASBA reports new education-and-experience pathways with different effective dates; do not assume a universal 150-credit rule.[1][2]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
Internships with accounting firms or businesses can provide experience. The BLS profile does not establish the pay terms of an individual internship.[1]
Costs to check before enrolling
Compare tuition, any additional CPA coursework required by your state, exam and application fees, review materials, and continuing education. Ask employers about reimbursement.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
Majors and routes to explore
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
A related business route. The degree title alone does not establish CPA eligibility.[1][2]
Daily life
What you would do
Examine financial records, prepare reports or tax documents, check accuracy and compliance, and explain findings to clients or managers.[1]
Where you could work
Offices across accounting firms, businesses, government, and self-employment. Some work from home; client visits may require travel.[1]
Hours and flexibility
Most work full time. Longer hours are common during tax season and periodic audits.[1]
Physical and emotional demands
Accuracy, organization, analysis, and explaining financial information are central. Several documents or clients may need attention at the same time.[1]
How you could advance
Experience can lead to senior, supervisory, management, or partner roles. Public accounting and internal business accounting offer different progression routes.[1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.
Questions to ask yourself and an employer
Can I plan around seasonal stretches of longer hours?
Do I enjoy checking details and explaining what numbers mean?
