What can CPAs do?
Robert Guerrero
Published Feb 03, 2026
They work for public accounting firms, both small and large. They act as consultants on many issues, including taxes and accounting. A CPA, or Certified Public Accountant, is a trusted financial advisor who helps individuals, businesses, and other organizations plan and reach their financial goals.
What services can a CPA provide?
Beyond just filing returns, CPAs can provide four basic services for a business:
- Tax Advice and Planning.
- Audit and Assurance Services.
- Management and Consulting.
- Forensic Accounting.
- Payroll Administrators.
- Bookkeepers.
- Long-Term Planners.
- Tax Filer.
How is a CPA different from other accountants?
Accountants without a CPA certification may prepare a proper tax return, but a CPA offers distinct advantages to clients that non-CPAs cannot provide. Another significant factor is that CPAs are eligible to represent clients before the IRS if audit support is required, while a non-CPA accountant is not.
What are different jobs an accountant CPA can hold?
Private Accounting Jobs:
- Accounting Clerk.
- Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk.
- Accounting Information System Specialist.
- Actuarial Accountant/Insurance Accountant.
- Bookkeeping.
- Budget Analyst.
- Capital Accountant.
- Comptroller/Financial Controller.
How hard is the CPA exam?
With national CPA Exam pass rates hovering around 50%, the Uniform CPA Examination is one of the most difficult professional credentialing exams.
What is the highest paid type of accountant?
Which accounting jobs pay the most money?
- Chief Financial Officer. Glassdoor Salary Range: $86,000 – $286,000+
- Controller. Glassdoor Salary Range: $78,000 – $155,000.
- Accounting Director. Glassdoor Salary Range: $88,000 – $174,000.
- Finance Manager.
- Senior Accountant.
- Tax Accountant.
- Accounts Payable Specialist.