And oftentimes, bookkeepers who enjoy analysis and tax law move how long does it take to become a bookkeeper into the position of accountants. A lot of people working in this field today started with just a high school diploma, and that’s enough. What matters more is that you’re good with details and you’re willing to learn. Some people do study accounting or finance in college, but it’s not something you have to do. If you really want to start this career, even a short online course or a basic certificate can help you learn the skills. Before pursuing certification, it’s essential to understand what a bookkeeper does.
What’s the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?
Start by understanding foundational accounting concepts such as debits and credits, assets and liabilities, and how financial statements work. These principles form the basis of all bookkeeping tasks and help you understand how transactions affect a business’s finances. The Certified Bookkeeper (CB) credential from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) is one of the most recognized certifications in the field. It validates your knowledge of bookkeeping fundamentals, including adjustments, payroll, and financial statements.
What do accountants do?
So, you’re ready to jump into bookkeeping, but not sure where to start? Let’s walk through a few simple steps to help you find the right fit and start building your career. Freelancing sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Belay are filled with part-time bookkeeping opportunities, so check out these platforms to see what’s available. Many jobs are fully remote, project-based, and ideal for beginners building their portfolio. Many people start with free or low-cost resources to learn the basics and build their skills.
Step 7: Apply for Bookkeeping Jobs or Start a Freelance Business
Certifications like Certified Bookkeeper (CB) or QuickBooks Certification boost your credibility and employability. The world of bookkeeping is always evolving, especially with new tools and technologies reshaping the industry. Staying updated with trends and mastering software like Xero or FreshBooks can set you apart. Warren Buffett once said, “Accounting is the language of business.” Accurate bookkeeping translates that language into actionable insights, helping businesses thrive. A bookkeeper is the financial gatekeeper of any business, managing invoices, payments, and bank reconciliations to keep the financial engine running smoothly.
Check out our guide on small business bookkeeping essentials for all the wisdom you need. While there is some overlap between bookkeeping and SMB accounting, these are two distinct roles with separate and vital functions to the financial health of an organization. The program is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, https://www.cesp-europa.org/2022/03/22/what-is-accounting-exploring-key-concepts-and/ ACBSP Accredited by the Council of Business Schools and Programs, and is endorsed by the Institute of Management Accountants.
How to Become a Tax Preparer in Arizona
Earning your credential is going to take time, effort and patience, but the career advantages you’ll gain are well worth the effort. Just be sure to also obtain qualifying accounting education and hands-on experience. Assess your own goals and needs to decide if it is worth the investment. While not universally required, certification remains one of the clearest ways to communicate your skills and commitment to the profession.
- Some employers may only require you to have a high school diploma for an entry-level bookkeeping position.
- Use keywords like remote bookkeeper, virtual bookkeeping, or freelance bookkeeping when you search.
- She started her career as a software developer specializing in human resource management (HRM), payroll, and quality systems.
- Working as a paid or unpaid intern will give you valuable insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of a bookkeeper, teaching you skills you’d only glean from real-life work experience.
- This skill becomes vital when handling both short-term and long-term projects throughout their careers.
Study required material
- However, with proper preparation (300 to 400 study hours), most candidates succeed.
- QuickBooks also provides a webinar, held by expert QBO accountant Hector Garcia, which covers how to set up QuickBooks Online and provides guidelines on some of the useful features of the product.
- If you want to work as an independent contractor or freelancer, you must prepare a bookkeeper engagement letter.
- If you want the freedom to work in a variety of environments and skills that will transfer in many different jobs, bookkeeping could be for you.
- A Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping meets the registration requirements to provide BAS services.
- The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is the most recognized credential in the field.
- Breaking into bookkeeping in 2025 is more accessible than most finance careers, requiring only strategic planning and dedication to skill development.
They handle everything from cash flow management to payroll and tax preparation. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported over 1.7 million bookkeeping jobs in 2022, with steady demand ahead. Most clients and employers prefer hiring candidates with a high school diploma or GED. Having this accolade helps demonstrate to employers and clients that you have the basic math, communication, and Cash Disbursement Journal writing skills that are necessary to succeed in this type of role. Unlike accounting jobs, you may be able to apply and accept a bookkeeping role without pursuing a postsecondary degree.