Bookkeepers still play important roles on accounting teams, especially in the small business world. This bookkeeper salary guide explores ways for emerging and established bookkeepers to improve their job prospects and earning power. Factors that influence a bookkeeper’s salary include industry, employer, experience, location and education. Also, earning a certification can often help bookkeepers earn more money. The BLS what is a bookkeeper projects a 6% decrease in the number of bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerk jobs between 2024 and 2034. However, the BLS still estimates an average of 170,000 openings each year during this time for bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks.
Years of Experience
However, salaries can range from $30,000 for those just starting out to $60,000+ for experienced bookkeepers with advanced credentials. Requirements vary by employer, but becoming a bookkeeper does not involve formal qualifications. A four-year degree may not be required, but most employers prefer bookkeepers who have completed some relevant college coursework. A bookkeeping certification is not mandatory, but it can help you stand out from the competition. AIPB requires CB candidates to pass all six credentialing tests Accounting Periods and Methods in no more than three years, so this is the maximum timeline for completing examination requirements. Your total timeline could extend to 5-6 years after factoring in AIPB’s two required years of professional experience, which you have three years to acquire.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks—which includes bookkeepers—earn a median hourly wage of $23.66.
- If you do not meet the experience requirement, we recommend our Professional Bookkeeping with QuickBooks course, which is designed for entry-level bookkeepers.
- You can get a one-month free trial, and there are more units available at the end to dive into more advanced topics.
- Bookkeepers who choose the education path, need to get used to how the bookkeeping software of the company functions.
- Or looking for a way to break into the finance industry without a four-year degree?
- Understanding the industry average and the factors that impact bookkeeping salaries is essential for both bookkeepers and employers.
Bookkeeping Programs in California
In 2020, they combined to account for more than 11.5% of all bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks working in the United States. Some industry experts believe that not enough bookkeepers are emerging to fill available job openings, indicating opportunities for professionals with the right skills. However, master’s degrees in accounting are usually designed for professionals in more advanced or technical positions. Bureau of Labor Statistics, bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks—which virtual accountant includes bookkeepers—earn a median hourly wage of $23.66. Bookkeepers help organizations keep their financial accounts organized and accurate.
Can you specialize in bookkeeping for a specific industry?
Individuals who chose the educational path can also earn these certifications, in the same conditions as everyone else. The demand for accountants, bookkeepers, and other specialists in this field is high. Certified public accountants and accounting bookkeepers have different pay scales, as shown below. An Accounting Bookkeeper supervises the financial data and compliance of a company. Accounting Bookkeepers maintain accurate books on accounts receivable and payable, daily financial reconciliations and entries, and payroll.
Bookkeepers in these roles help clients stay on track by setting up accounts, categorizing transactions, reconciling accounts, preparing financial reports, and more. They ensure that business financial records are up to date and accurate, helping companies make financial decisions and grow their businesses. There are often opportunities for in-house bookkeepers, remote bookkeepers, or freelance bookkeepers. Continue reading to learn about bookkeeping, typical responsibilities, how to become a bookkeeper, and remote bookkeeping opportunities with Intuit.
- Even if you’re not thinking about getting a master’s degree, it’s still good to know what it involves.
- You can gain this knowledge through a course or on-the-job training in an accounting department or working underneath an experienced bookkeeper.
- You’ll also learn about growth outlooks for the profession and tips to maximize your income as a bookkeeper over time.
- Before stepping into the role of a bookkeeper, you’ll need to undergo some training.
- You can pursue these licenses even if you’re going the education route to become a bookkeeper.
- Helene K. Liatsos is a consultant for small businesses, travel agencies, and home-based business startups with more than 25 years of experience.
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