How to Become an Accountant

An accountant is responsible for managing and analyzing financial records to ensure accuracy, compliance, and effective financial planning. This role is important in helping organizations track income and expenses, file taxes correctly, and make informed decisions based on financial data.

Accountants support efficiency by streamlining financial processes, collaboration by working with different departments on budgeting and reporting, and strategy execution by providing insights that guide long-term planning.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Preparing financial statements and reports
• Tracking income and expenses
• Managing budgets and forecasting
• Filing tax documents and ensuring compliance
• Handling payroll and invoicing
• Conducting internal audits
• Using accounting software to manage records
• Supporting financial decision-making with data analysis

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for accountants and auditors was $81,680 as of May 2024.

Here’s a breakdown by income percentile:

• 10th percentile: $50,440
• 25th percentile: $63,640
• 50th percentile (median): $81,680
• 75th percentile: $103,990
• 90th percentile: $137,280

These figures can vary based on location, experience, industry, and certifications such as the CPA. Accountants working in finance, insurance, and company management tend to earn above the national median.

To become an accountant, you’ll need a mix of formal education, practical skills, and sometimes certifications, depending on your career goals. Here’s a breakdown of the typical qualifications:

Education

Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business
• Associate degree in Accounting (for entry-level roles)
• Master’s degree in Accounting or Business Administration (optional but helpful for advancement)
• Completion of coursework in tax law, auditing, and financial reporting

Key Skills

These are the core skills that help accountants perform their duties effectively:

• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Communication and teamwork
• Public speaking and conflict resolution skills (especially for leadership or client-facing roles)
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Experience

While some roles accept fresh graduates, having experience can make you more competitive:

• Internship or on-the-job training in accounting or finance
• 1–2 years of experience in bookkeeping, auditing, or financial analysis (for mid-level roles)
• Experience working with accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero

Optional Certifications

Certifications are not always required, but they can boost your credibility and earnings:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – often required for auditing or tax roles
• Certified Management Accountant (CMA) – focused on strategic financial management
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) – ideal for those in investment or finance
• QuickBooks Certification – useful for small business or freelance roles

These qualifications help build a solid foundation and open more opportunities as you grow in your accounting career.

Accountants are in demand across a wide range of industries because nearly every organization needs help managing its finances, ensuring compliance, and planning for growth. Their skills are essential in both the public and private sectors.

Common industries that hire accountants:

• Finance and Insurance – Accountants handle investment reports, risk analysis, and compliance in banks, insurance companies, and financial firms.
• Government – Federal, state, and local agencies employ accountants to manage budgets, monitor spending, and conduct audits.
• Healthcare – Hospitals and healthcare providers rely on accountants to track operational costs, billing, and regulatory compliance.
• Manufacturing – Accountants monitor inventory costs, production expenses, and financial efficiency in operations.
• Retail and E-commerce – Businesses in this space use accountants to manage sales reports, vendor payments, and profit margins.
  Technology – Tech companies need accountants to track revenue streams, manage investor funds, and support strategic growth.
• Education and Nonprofits – These sectors rely on accountants for grant tracking, donor fund reporting, and budget planning.
• Professional Services – Accounting firms, law offices, and consultancies hire accountants for financial management and client reporting.

Accountants rely on a range of tools to manage data, streamline workflows, and ensure accuracy. These tools span across accounting, analytics, documentation, and project management functions. Familiarity with these platforms is often expected in mid-to-senior-level roles.

Accounting and Bookkeeping Software
Used for tracking income, expenses, invoices, and tax reporting.

• QuickBooks – For small business accounting and invoicing
• Xero – Cloud-based accounting for managing cash flow and payroll
• FreshBooks – Simplified invoicing and time tracking for freelancers and service providers
• Wave – A free solution for basic accounting and receipts

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
Used in larger organizations to integrate finance with operations, HR, and inventory.

• SAP – Comprehensive ERP for financial planning, procurement, and asset management
• Oracle NetSuite – Cloud-based ERP for accounting, CRM, and e-commerce
• Microsoft Dynamics 365 – Combines financial management with reporting and automation

Spreadsheet and Data Analysis Tools
Used for budget planning, forecasting, and data manipulation.

• Microsoft Excel – A core tool for financial modeling, pivot tables, and formulas
• Google Sheets – For collaborative spreadsheet work
• Tableau – For visualizing financial data and building dashboards
• Power BI – For interactive reports and data analysis in corporate environments

Documentation and Organization Tools
Used to manage records, collaborate on financial reports, and organize tasks.

• Some professionals use Notion to manage documentation, SOPs, and meeting notes
• Todoist helps accountants track recurring tasks, deadlines, and projects
• Google Drive or Dropbox – For storing financial reports and backing up records

Project Management Tools
Used to plan audits, manage financial reporting deadlines, and coordinate team efforts.

• Monday.com – For tracking projects, compliance checklists, and audit cycles
• Teamwork – Helpful for organizing client projects and timelines in accounting firms
• Trello – For simple task boards and workflow tracking

Time Tracking and Billing Tools
Used in firms or freelance settings to bill clients and track hours.

• DeskTime – Useful for logging time and improving productivity
• Harvest – Tracks billable hours and generates invoices for clients

An accountant’s career path typically follows a clear progression, with opportunities to grow from junior roles to executive-level positions. Advancement depends on experience, performance, certifications, and sometimes specialization.

Typical career path includes:

• Accounting Clerk / Junior Accountant
  Entry-level role focused on data entry, basic bookkeeping, and assisting with financial reporting.
  Average salary: $45,000–$55,000 per year
• Staff Accountant
  Handles daily accounting functions, prepares financial statements, and supports audits.
  Average salary: $55,000–$70,000 per year
• Senior Accountant
  Takes on more complex accounting tasks, supervises junior staff, and ensures regulatory compliance.
  Average salary: $70,000–$90,000 per year
• Accounting Manager / Supervisor
  Oversees a team of accountants, coordinates reporting processes, and collaborates with other departments.
  Average salary: $90,000–$110,000 per year
• Controller
  Manages all accounting operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
  Average salary: $110,000–$140,000 per year
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  Executive-level role responsible for financial strategy, risk management, and high-level decision-making.
  Average salary: $150,000–$250,000+ per year

Tip: Professionals can accelerate their career growth by earning certifications like CPA or CMA, pursuing a master’s degree in accounting or finance, and developing leadership skills. Understanding workplace trends—such as those outlined in Generation X Characteristics in the Workplace—can also help in managing teams and navigating career transitions.

If you’re looking to build accounting skills or pursue a career in the field, there are several reputable learning platforms and institutions to choose from. Whether you’re just starting out or already working and want to upskill, flexible options are available to fit your schedule and budget.

Online Learning Platforms:

• Coursera – Offers accounting courses from top universities like the University of Illinois and Wharton. Great for academic-style learning with optional certificates.
• edX – Features accounting and finance programs from institutions like MIT and Harvard. Ideal for those considering advanced study.
• LinkedIn Learning – Provides bite-sized accounting tutorials and full courses with completion certificates. Helpful for professionals updating specific skills.
• Skill Success – A fast, affordable option for career starters or team leads. The All Access Pass gives unlimited access to over 4,000 self-paced courses, including accounting fundamentals, financial analysis, and software tutorials. It’s designed for those who want to learn on their own time without breaking the bank.

Traditional Education Paths:

• Community Colleges – Offer associate degrees or certificate programs in accounting, often at a lower cost than universities.
• Business Schools – Many top business schools provide bachelor’s or master’s degrees in accounting and finance. These programs are best for those seeking CPA licensure or executive roles in the long term.

Whether you’re learning the basics or preparing for certification, online platforms like Skill Success make it easier to study at your own pace while staying within budget.

Success in accounting goes beyond knowing numbers—it requires strong habits, communication, and a commitment to growth. Here are practical tips to help you stand out and advance in your accounting career:

1. Stay Organized – Use systems and tools to keep financial records, deadlines, and reports in order.
2. Keep Learning – Stay updated with accounting standards, tax laws, and industry tools through courses and certifications.
3. Develop Communication Skills – Being able to explain financial data clearly helps you work better with teams and clients.
4. Build Ethical Discipline – Always prioritize integrity, accuracy, and transparency in all financial matters.
5. Embrace Technology – Learn how to use accounting software, data analysis tools, and cloud-based platforms efficiently.
6. Manage Time Well – Meeting deadlines is critical—set priorities and break down large tasks into manageable steps.
7. Understand the Business – Know the company’s goals and operations so you can provide financial insights that truly add value.
8. Stay Calm Under Pressure – Accounting often involves tight deadlines—practice staying focused and composed during busy periods.
9. Ask for Feedback – Regular feedback helps you improve your performance and shows your commitment to growth.
10. Network with Professionals – Join accounting groups, attend webinars, or connect online to learn from peers and grow your opportunities.