Your Guide on How to Get Bookkeeping Certificate for Career Success

What is a Bookkeeping Certificate?

A bookkeeping certificate is a credential that demonstrates a professional bookkeeper’s expertise in bookkeeping and accounting.

It shows that the holder has gained the knowledge necessary to complete bookkeeping jobs, perform basic accounting tasks, and advance in their accounting career.

Bookkeeping certificates are offered by various organizations, including the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB).

Benefits of Certification for Professional Bookkeepers

• Certification can increase earning potential and enhance professional status.

• It gives a competitive edge in the job market and demonstrates a commitment to the profession.

• Certified bookkeepers can work as QuickBooks Certified Advisors and help small businesses manage their finances.

• Certification can also lead to career advancement opportunities and higher-paying jobs.

Types of Bookkeeping Certifications: AIPB Certified Bookkeeper Certification

• Certified Bookkeeper (CB) certification offered by the AIPB.

• Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) certification offered by the NACPB.

• Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Program, which includes the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping exam.

• Other certified bookkeeper courses and certifications are also available.

How to Get a Bookkeeping Certificate

Comprehensive Online Bookkeeping Certification Courses

• Enroll in a comprehensive online bookkeeping certification course.

• Enroll in a certified bookkeeper course designed to prepare you for the AIPB national certification exam.

• Complete coursework and hands-on exercises to solidify understanding of critical information.

• Online courses can be completed at your own pace and are often more affordable than traditional courses.

Bookkeeping Certification Exams

• Prepare for the AIPB certified bookkeeper certification exam or the NACPB CPB national certification exam.

• Study using practice exams, study workbooks, and online resources.

• Pass the exam to earn your certification.

Cost of Bookkeeping Certification

The cost of obtaining a bookkeeping certification can vary widely depending on the program and the institution offering it. On average, you can expect to invest anywhere from $500 to $2,000 in a certification program. Many programs also offer financing options or payment plans to make the certification more accessible.

Here are some estimated costs for popular bookkeeping certification programs:

• Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate: $499

• American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) Certified Bookkeeper (CB) certification: $599

• National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) certification: $699

• QuickBooks Certified Advisor certification: $499

It’s important to note that these costs typically do not include additional expenses such as textbooks, study materials, and exam fees. As a professional bookkeeper, investing in certification can significantly enhance your career prospects and earning potential, making it a worthwhile expenditure.

Accreditation and Recognition of Certification Programs

When selecting a bookkeeping certification program, it’s crucial to ensure that the program is accredited and recognized by reputable organizations within the industry. Accreditation guarantees that the program meets established standards of quality and relevance, while recognition by industry organizations can enhance the value of your certification.

Here are some accrediting organizations and industry recognitions for popular bookkeeping certification programs:

• Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate: Accredited by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and recognized by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB).

• American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) Certified Bookkeeper (CB) certification: Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and recognized by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA).

• National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) certification: Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and recognized by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

• QuickBooks Certified Advisor certification: Accredited by Intuit, Inc. and recognized by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB).

When researching certification programs, look for accreditation and recognition by reputable organizations to ensure that the program meets industry standards and will be valued by employers. This can significantly boost your credibility and career opportunities as a certified bookkeeper.

Developing Essential Bookkeeping Skills

• Learn to prepare financial statements and perform basic accounting tasks.

• Develop skills in QuickBooks and other accounting software.

• Understand accounting principles and concepts, including assets, liabilities, and equity.

• Learn to analyze and interpret financial statements.

Career Opportunities for Certified Bookkeepers

• Work as a professional bookkeeper or accountant, advancing your accounting career.

• Start your own business management company.

• Work as a QuickBooks Certified Advisor.

• Pursue a career in accounting or finance.

Maintaining Your Certification

• Complete continuing professional education (CPE) credits to maintain certification.

• Renew certification annually or every three years, depending on the certifying organization.

• Stay up-to-date with changes in accounting principles and software.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Bookkeeping Certificate?

• Online courses can be completed in a few months to a year.

• Certification exams can be taken after completing coursework.

• Total time to get certified can vary depending on the course and exam schedule.

Choosing the Right Certification for Your Career Goals

• Consider the AIPB certified bookkeeper certification for a comprehensive certification.

• Consider the NACPB CPB certification for a certification that requires more education and experience.

• Consider the Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate for a certification that focuses on QuickBooks.

Career Advancement Opportunities

• Certification can lead to higher-paying jobs and career advancement opportunities.

• Certified bookkeepers can work as certified public accountants or start their own businesses.

• Certification can also lead to opportunities in finance and accounting.

Conclusion

• Getting a bookkeeping certificate can be a valuable investment in your accounting or bookkeeping career.

• Certification demonstrates expertise and commitment to the profession.

• Choose the right certification for your career goals and maintain it through continuing education.