• For Jobseekers
  • For companies

Become a certified accountant in Atlanta

Unlock your potential as a certified accountant in Atlanta with our comprehensive guide. Learn about the necessary educational pathways, gain insights into salary expectations, and explore diverse career opportunities in this thriving financial hub. Whether you're just starting or looking to advance your career, find the essential steps to achieve your certification and succeed in the accounting field.

Are you interested in becoming a certified accountant in Atlanta? If so, there are a few steps you need to take to achieve this goal. First and foremost, you will need to obtain a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. This will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this profession.

Once you have completed your degree, you will need to gain some practical experience in the field. Many employers require at least two years of experience before they will consider hiring you as a certified accountant. You can gain this experience by working as an intern or entry-level accountant at a local accounting firm or corporation.

After you have gained some experience, you will need to pass the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. This exam is administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and is designed to test your knowledge and skills in accounting, auditing, and taxation. In order to be eligible to take the exam, you will need to meet certain educational and experience requirements, which vary by state.

In addition to passing the CPA exam, you will also need to meet any other state-specific requirements for becoming a certified accountant in Atlanta. This may include obtaining a license or certification from the Georgia State Board of Accountancy, which regulates the practice of accounting in the state.

Become a certified accountant

Get started

How long does it take to become a certified accountant in Atlanta?

Becoming a certified accountant in Atlanta typically takes around 4 to 6 years. This includes completing a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field (about 4 years), followed by obtaining 30 additional credit hours to meet the 150-hour requirement for CPA eligibility. After that, passing the CPA exam can take several months of preparation.

Atlanta certified accountant salary

The salary for certified accountants in Atlanta varies based on experience, specialization, and the type of employer. On average, entry-level positions start around $55,000, while mid-level accountants can earn between $75,000 and $90,000. Senior accountants and those in specialized roles, like forensic or tax accounting, often see salaries exceeding $100,000. Additionally, the demand for skilled accountants in Atlanta’s growing financial sector contributes to competitive compensation packages, including benefits and bonuses.

What does a certified accountant do?

A certified accountant plays a crucial role in managing financial records, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations. They prepare and analyze financial statements, conduct audits, and provide tax-related advice to individuals and businesses. Beyond traditional accounting tasks, certified accountants also engage in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning, helping organizations make informed decisions. They often collaborate with clients to optimize financial performance and identify areas for improvement. Furthermore, many certified accountants specialize in niches such as forensic accounting, which involves investigating financial discrepancies, or tax accounting, focusing on tax compliance and strategies. Their expertise not only contributes to the financial health of organizations but also instills confidence in stakeholders regarding fiscal responsibility.

Free Personality tests

All of the following assessment tools explore an individual's personality thoroughly, although the Big5 is the gold standard among personality assessments. And what’s key is that are all available for free here:

Check out our remote job board

Get started