How to Become an Accountant: 5 Key Steps to Success

Becoming an accountant is more than just adding numbers and tracking bills.

It's about helping businesses grow by keeping track of their finances. An accountant analyzes the company's financial statements but focuses more on the actual money movements and transactions to compile the numbers on money coming in and going out. This is usually detailed by departments such as receipts, invoices, sales, payroll, and credit card statements. Modern accountants typically leverage accounting software to centralize all financial processes and automate certain departments to increase efficiency.

Accounting has become one of the most sought-after positions. This article explains how to become a good accountant and the tips to keep in mind to be one.

How to become an accountant in 5 steps

Earn an Associate's Degree Sign up for a training program Acquire a certification Obtain a license Become familiar with accounting software How to become an accountant

Becoming an accountant is one of the most rewarding careers you can choose. You'll be able to work with numbers, stay organized, and help small businesses grow. But how do you go from completely ignoring what a double-entry ledger is to landing your dream job?

It starts with a background in accounting or business administration.

1. Earn an associate degree

The beauty of accounting is that it doesn't require a 4-year college degree. However, that doesn't mean there isn't a surprising amount of knowledge required to do this job. While much of this comes with hands-on work experience, some employers may want to see that you have at least an associate's degree before beginning your career in earnest. The best online programs give you the opportunity to gain practical skills and experience through internships.

Make sure the school you choose offers these courses:

Accounting principles Business Law Computer applications Math Payroll systems Taxes Financial management practices Record keeping methods Marketing principles Development of customer service skills Ethics 2. Enroll in a training program

Along with the education imperative, most employers don't hire a new accountant straight out of high school or college. Most of them want to know that you learned valuable skills that will help you land a full-time job without a problem. Typically, this will take the form of an internship, co-op, or part-time job that will give you in-depth insight into how a company meets new regulations and manages its records.

These programs are generally flexible, allowing students to study at their own pace and often allowing them to work while studying if needed. Online programs also tend to be less expensive than other options because they don't require expensive class time or travel expenses.

This will give you a solid foundation in bookkeeping and help you learn how to set up accounts, track transactions, and perform basic bookkeeping tasks.

3. Acquire Certification

This one doesn't come until a little later, but it's still part of the journey to becoming a fully-fledged accountant. After two years of working as a full-time accountant, you can apply to the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers for official certification. This usually involves taking a few courses and passing a four-part exam.

While not strictly necessary for your career as an accountant, it can open up a high level of better paying work that you might not otherwise be able to access.

After becoming certified by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB), you can work in any state without additional training or testing. Plus, it will give you access to valuable resources that can help you grow your career and expand your network of clients and colleagues.

4. Obtain a license

After obtaining official certification, you can also choose to obtain a license to become a certified public accountant. This distinction opens the highest level of jobs in accounting and offers the best career prospects.

However, to become a Certified Public Accountant, you must complete additional education and training, pass an additional test, and complete 24 hours of training.