CPA versus Bookkeeper - What's the difference?

The dividing line between CPAs and bookkeepers.

One of the most common questions I hear is, ‘What is the difference between a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a bookkeeper?’ While many think the two are interchangeable, there is actually a very distinctive line between them. A CPA is capable of performing the same tasks as a bookkeeper, but a bookkeeper cannot perform the higher-level tasks of a CPA.

In most states, CPAs are required to have a high-level degree and official certification. This enables them to be closely regulated, but it also means their services come at a higher cost to you. This is where bookkeepers come into play: saving you money. Utilizing a bookkeeper for day-to-day transactions and a CPA for higher-level, more complex practices, will keep your accounting costs to a minimum.

View the chart below for a quick reference of the duties of a CPA and a bookkeeper.

The right bookkeeper keeps your daily workflow organized and can also help you fully assess your business financials, plan, and initiate processes to help your business succeed and give you full visibility for making those tough financial decisions.

As a business owner, utilizing a team of a CPA and a bookkeeper is the best decision. This way, you can save money and have a knowledgeable team to help you handle your finances.

At Wise Bookkeeper, we communicate directly with your CPA to save you time and stress. Contact us today to address your bookkeeping needs.

To set up a time for a free evaluation, visit www.wisebookkeeper.com