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In terms of hiring potential, there is little difference between the two designations. Both certified bookkeeper are nationally recognized and well-regarded by accounting professionals. The primary difference between the AIPB’s certification and NACPB’s license is the resulting title.
Professional Requirements
The classes you will take in your bookkeeping program depend on its scope and structure. If you enroll in a multi-term program, your coursework will likely cover a sequenced, survey-style review of core concepts. Classes aim to develop specific professional skills, especially in the areas covered by the following sample curriculum. One course at the end of the program targets certification prep only, providing an in-depth review of covered topics and their application to the certification exam. On Coursera, enroll in the Intuit Bookkeeping Professional Certificate program to dive into financial statement analysis, assets, liability, and equity. Or explore relevant courses, like Bookkeeping Basics, to develop key skills.
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Bookkeeping Certifications: CB vs. CPB
- Some tasks QuickBooks Live bookkeepers perform include providing assistance in setting up charts of accounts, categorizing transactions, reconciling accounts, preparing financial reports, and more.
- The job also requires an eye for detail, organization, and some basic math skills.
- In general, bookkeeping programs emphasize practical skills and core essentials.
- Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us.
Every job and person is different, but it usually takes about six months of on-the-job training to really get a grasp on the bookkeeping role. If you have a degree in accounting or a related discipline, you will probably pick it up quicker than if you don’t. Many accounting programs feature internships and practicums that help you build experience as you learn.
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Therefore, there are often opportunities opening up for in-house bookkeepers, remote bookkeepers, or freelance bookkeepers. Bookkeepers can advance their careers with experience and education, pursuing roles with more responsibility and stronger professional outlooks. For example, if you have an accounting degree, you can pursue payroll accountant or staff accountant positions.
Communicate Bookkeeping Knowledge
Follow the steps below to figure out how to find the best option for your goals. A bookkeeping certification can yield a high return on investment, depending on a few factors. Here are a few things to consider before obtaining a bookkeeping certification. You can also complete additional certifications to demonstrate your proficiency in advanced subtopics related to bookkeeping. Follow these five best practice tips to improve your bookkeeper certification exam performance. NACPB exams occur online and must be scheduled at least one or two business days before the exam date.
Candidates with relevant education may forgo a course by requesting a transcript review. The CPB license requires passing four exams covering bookkeeping, payroll, accounting, and QuickBooks. Test-takers have two hours to complete 50 multiple-choice questions and simulations in each open-book exam. This guide focuses on CB and CPB credentials, which have the same requirements in all states. Each certifying body sets its eligibility requirements, which may vary by country for globally recognized credentials.
Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact… Cecilia is a freelance writer, content marketing strategist and author covering education, technology and energy. She is a current contributor to the Forbes Advisor education vertical and holds a summa cum laude journalism degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Outside of universities, certifications are available through the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB). Heidi Borst is a freelance journalist, healthcare content writer and certified nutrition coach with a love of all things health and wellness.
While a bookkeeper’s duties may overlap with that of an accountant, bookkeepers do not need a college degree. However employers may prefer some college courses in accounting and finance or a bookkeeping certificate. Choosing a bookkeeping course that emphasizes analytical accounting skills can enhance your employability amid a changing landscape. Review this program guide and ranking, which profiles the top bookkeeping certificate programs. Depending on the certificate or certification program you complete, you may be required to recertify regularly to keep your credential.
The demand for new bookkeepers stems from a need to replace those who retire and workers who transfer to other industries. Although they have many similarities, one option might suit some candidates better. Parts one and two require at least 75% to pass, and each multiple-choice question carries equal weight in the final score. Test-takers receive electronically scored results immediately after completing each part at a Prometric testing center. To apply for CPB licensure, NACPB requires at least one year or 2,000 hours of bookkeeping experience. NACPB bookkeeping education courses develop your bookkeeping, payroll, and QuickBooks Online knowledge.
