A finance professional who prepares and analyzes financial records for individuals, businesses, and governments.
What accountants do
Accountants record transactions, prepare financial statements, analyze costs, file taxes, and ensure compliance with accounting standards. They support audits, advise on business decisions, and reconcile accounts on a monthly and annual cycle.
Training path
Most US accountants hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Public accountants typically earn the Certified Public Accountant credential, which requires 150 college credit hours, passing four exam sections, and supervised experience. Industry accountants often pursue CMA, CIA, or CFE designations.
Settings
Accountants work in public accounting firms ranging from the Big Four to small local practices, in corporate finance departments, nonprofits, government, and as solo practitioners serving small businesses.
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Accountant starts with A and ends with T. Browse other professions along the same letter.
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