Information on Business:
Basics:
As an accountant you are helping your clients with very important decisions, their finances. The unique perspective that you have allows you to pinpoint areas where improvement is needed and help your client manage their finances better. There are two major fields of work you can concentrate on, one is small business accounting in which you would work as the person managing the financial affairs of a small business. The second field is personal accounting, in which you would help individuals manage their finances and plan for taxes.
To Get Started:
It is important to decide early on if you will visit you clients at their place or if they will come to yours. If they come to you be prepared to have an inviting professional setting with adequate furniture. Since you will interact with your clients frequently and with expertise in your field, you need not to appear condescending in any way, this is a quick way to lose a client. People skills will set you apart and gain you the loyalty of your clients. You will need to get a CPA certification to perform most accounting tasks required for taxes and also to boost your credentials.
Tips:
You can work from home in this business and it is an opportunity for people with disabilities. Since most of the work will be done by you, a staff is usually not required. Make sure you have errors and omissions insurance. Keep an eye on additional costs such as membership subscriptions and continuing education. You can charge $40 or more per hour for your work. For related information about this business do a search for the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, The American Accounting Association and the National Association of CPA Firms. For other links do a search for the Internal Revenue Service and accounting.com
Definition:
A person that keeps financial and inventory records for clients and advices them clients on financial regulations and best procedures.
Revenue Range:
$25,000 to $100,000 per year
Education and Training Required:
A 4yr degree, a master's or doctorate degree, a professional license. Experience in business area you wish to cover.
Equipment Required:
Computer, accounting software, fax, stationery, office furniture, cell phone.
