CPA vs. Accountant: Explaining the Difference for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many confuse accountants with CPAs—and it’s not hard to see why. They both work with numbers, prepare financial reports, and help individuals and businesses make smarter financial decisions. But while they may seem interchangeable on the surface, the distinction between a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and a general accountant runs deeper than just a job title.

Not all accountants are CPAs—and not all financial tasks require one. A CPA is a licensed professional with the authority to perform audit services, represent clients before the IRS, and issue certified financial statements. Accountants, on the other hand, often focus on internal financial processes like budgeting, payroll, and financial reporting. As financial regulations evolve and career expectations shift, understanding these roles becomes essential for students, business owners, and aspiring professionals alike.

In this guide, I will walk you through the key differences between CPAs and accountants, from education and responsibilities to salary outlooks and long-term career paths.

Key Things You Should Know About a CPA vs. an Accountant

CPAs must pass a rigorous licensing exam and meet strict state requirements, whereas accountants can begin working with just a relevant degree.
Accountants typically handle day-to-day financial tasks like bookkeeping, budgeting, and reporting, while CPAs are qualified to perform audits, represent clients before the IRS, and sign off on financial statements.
CPAs earn significantly more on average, with annual salaries around $91,980, compared to $68,326 for non-certified accountants (ZipRecruiter, n.d.).

Is a CPA the same as an Accountant?
What are the main responsibilities of a CPA vs. an Accountant?
What are the educational prerequisites you need to be a CPA vs. an Accountant?
What core skills benefit both CPAs and Accountants?
How long does it take to become a CPA compared to becoming an Accountant?
What is the salary outlook for a CPA vs. an Accountant?
Which industries are best for a CPA vs. an Accountant?
How can emerging technologies and online education reshape your accounting career?
How Does Ongoing Professional Development Impact Your Accounting Career?
Can affordable online accounting associate degree programs kickstart your accounting career?
What are the different career paths for a CPA vs. an Accountant?
CPA vs. Accountant: Which role will have a higher demand in the future?
Becoming a CPA vs. an Accountant: Which is better for you?
Can entrepreneurial skills boost your accounting career?
Other Things You Should Know About CPA vs. Accountant

Is a CPA the same as an Accountant?

The short answer is no, and here’s why. Imagine walking into a business and asking to speak with the accountant—chances are, that person could be handling anything from managing payroll to preparing tax documents. But if you ask for the CPA, you're requesting someone with a specific set of credentials and legal authority. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they’re not synonymous.

There are approximately 1,562,000 CPAs and accountants employed across the US, highlighting just how expansive and varied the field really is. This overlap in job titles often blurs the lines, but the distinction matters. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between a CPA and an accountant:

Credentialing: A CPA holds a state-issued license earned by passing the Uniform CPA Exam and meeting education and experience requirements; an accountant does not need a license to work.
Scope of Work: CPAs can perform audits, file reports with the SEC, and represent clients before the IRS; accountants are limited to general financial tasks like bookkeeping and reporting.
Legal Authority: Only CPAs are authorized to sign audited financial statements and provide attestation services.
Education and Exams: CPAs must complete 150 college credit hours and pass a four-part exam (Becker, n.d.); accountants typically need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.
Regulatory Oversight: CPAs must complete continuing education and follow a state board’s code of ethics; accountants have no such regulatory requirement unless working in a licensed capacity.

What are the main responsibilities of a CPA vs. an Accountant?

Think of a CPA as the specialist and an accountant as the generalist. While both work in the same financial ecosystem, their responsibilities diverge in terms of scope, complexity, and legal authority. An accountant lays the groundwork—organizing, analyzing, and reporting financial data. A CPA, on the other hand, builds on that foundation with the credentials to offer regulated services, represent clients before government agencies, and provide strategic guidance at the highest levels. These roles often overlap, but their day-to-day responsibilities are distinct, and choosing between the two depends on the depth of expertise required.

Accountant Responsibilities:

Bookkeeping: Track financial transactions and reconcile bank statements. Explore our guide on how you can earn a bookkeeper certification.
Budgeting and Forecasting: Help businesses and individuals plan expenses and manage cash flow effectively.
Payroll Processing: Calculate wages, withhold taxes, and ensure compliance with labor laws.
Financial Reporting: Prepare internal reports like income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
General Tax Filing: Prepare and file individual or small business tax returns, typically without IRS representation rights.

CPA Responsibilities:

Audit and Assurance Services: Conduct independent audits and certify the accuracy of financial statements.
Tax Preparation and Representation: Prepare complex tax returns and legally represent clients in IRS disputes or audits.
Forensic Accounting: Investigate financial discrepancies and fraud for legal cases or internal reviews.
Compliance and Regulatory Reporting: Ensure businesses comply with federal and state regulations, especially when filing with the SEC.
Strategic Financial Consulting: Advise clients on mergers, acquisitions, risk management, and financial planning.

What are the education prerequisites you need to be a CPA vs. an Accountant?

The road to becoming a CPA is longer, more rigorous, and paved with exams. Meanwhile, the path to becoming an accountant is more flexible and accessible. Both roles typically begin in the same place: a degree in accounting or a related field. But if you're eyeing the CPA role, you’ll need to take your education a step further, both in depth and duration. Think of it like this: if becoming an accountant is earning your driver’s license, becoming a CPA is qualifying for a commercial pilot’s license. The commitment is greater, but so are the opportunities.

Here’s how the two tracks compare:

Accountant Education Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree: Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
No Licensing Mandate: No formal licensure is needed, which means you can begin working as an accountant straight out of college.
Optional Certifications: Accountants may pursue additional credentials like CMA (Certified Management Accountant) or EA (Enrolled Agent), though these are not required.

CPA Education Requirements:

150 Credit Hours: All US states require CPA candidates to complete 150 semester hours of college coursework—typically 30 credits beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Accounting Core: Must complete a significant number of credits specifically in accounting, auditing, and business law, depending on which state you're in.
Uniform CPA Exam: Candidates must pass all four sections of the CPA exam, a comprehensive test covering auditing, financial reporting, taxation, and business concepts.

The bottom line here is that becoming an accountant is quicker and gets you into the workforce faster, but earning a CPA license unlocks higher-level roles, increased responsibility, and more earning potential. For further comparison, you may also explore our comprehensive steps to become a CA (Chartered Accountant), especially if you're considering an international career in accounting and finance.

What core skills benefit both CPAs and Accountants?

Behind every accurate balance sheet or well-filed tax return is a blend of analytical thinking, ethical judgment, and strong communication. Whether you're a CPA advising corporate boards or an accountant managing small business finances, the skill set required to succeed in either role goes beyond crunching numbers. In fact, the most effective professionals in both fields combine technical precision with human insight—translating data into decisions and regulations into real-world impact.

Here are the core skills that benefit both CPAs and accountants:

Attention to Detail: A single error can ripple through a financial report or tax filing. As such, both roles demand precision and accuracy.
Analytical Thinking: Interpreting financial data and identifying areas for improvement are essential for both accountants and CPAs. These skills can be sharpened through training offered by online data analytics master’s degree programs.
Ethical Integrity: Handling sensitive financial information requires a high level of trust, professionalism, and a strong ethical foundation.
Communication Skills: Whether it’s explaining complex tax law to a client or presenting findings to a leadership team, clear and confident communication is critical.
Tech Proficiency: From Excel and QuickBooks to advanced accounting software and cloud platforms, being tech-savvy is a major advantage in today’s digital-first financial environment.

While the credentials may differ, success in both careers depends on mastering these core competencies, and applying them in a fast-changing business landscape.

How long does it take to become a CPA compared to becoming an Accountant?

If accounting is the starting line, becoming a CPA is running the full marathon. The timeline for each career path reflects the depth of responsibility, regulation, and expertise involved. According to Indeed (2025), becoming an accountant can be relatively quick—some professionals enter the field with just a two-year associate degree, gaining early experience in entry-level roles like bookkeeping or junior staff accounting. Others pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree, which is the most common route and provides a broader foundation for mid-level positions.

In contrast, the road to becoming a CPA is more demanding. On average, it takes about five years of education to meet the 150-credit-hour requirement most states enforce. This is followed by one to two years of supervised work experience, and then candidates typically spend another 18 months preparing for and passing all four sections of the CPA exam. The process is intense—and intentionally so—because CPAs are licensed to perform high-stakes services like audits, regulatory filings, and IRS representation.

In a nutshell:

Accountant: Can start working with an associate degree (2 years) or bachelor’s degree (4 years).
CPA: Requires more extensive education, experience, and testing—often taking 6 to 7 years in total.

If you’re passionate about the business analysis side of accounting, you might be also interested in embarking on a journey as a business analyst. Check out the list of business intelligence analyst career requirements for your reference.

What is the salary outlook for a CPA vs. an Accountant?

Compensation often reflects complexity. In the case of CPAs and accountants, that’s especially true. While both roles offer solid earning potential, the CPA designation often leads to higher salaries thanks to increased responsibility, greater specialization, and licensure that qualifies professionals for high-stakes financial work. Whether you’re comparing job offers or planning a long-term career strategy, understanding how salaries stack up at different percentiles is key.

Below is a chart that breaks down the current US wage data for the two professions, where a CPA’s salary can reach up to $146,500, while accountants earn a competitive $108,500 at the higher end:

Which industries are best for a CPA vs. an Accountant?

Some financial professionals build their careers around spreadsheets—others around strategy. CPAs and accountants may share a foundation in financial principles, but the sectors where they thrive often look very different. While CPAs are frequently pulled into complex, high-regulation environments like public accounting or corporate finance, accountants find rewarding careers across a broader set of industries that value operational support and budget oversight.

Industries Where CPAs Excel:

Public Accounting Firms: PA firms rely heavily on CPAs for audits, tax advisory, and compliance.
Corporate Finance and SEC Reporting: Public companies value CPAs for their ability to manage financial statements in accordance with strict regulations.
Government and Nonprofits: From auditing agencies to regulatory bodies, CPAs are essential for transparency and accountability.
Forensic Accounting and Litigation Support: CPAs are often called upon for investigations, fraud detection, and expert testimony.

Industries Where Accountants Thrive:

Small to Midsize Businesses: Accountants often handle full-cycle bookkeeping, budgeting, and financial reporting.
Healthcare and Education: These sectors need accountants to manage grants, budgets, and operational expenses.
Hospitality and Retail: Accountants support day-to-day cash flow management, payroll, and vendor payments.
Technology Startups: Agile accounting teams keep fast-growth companies financially sound during scaling.

To further understand career benchmarks, we recommend checking out our information systems manager career guide, one of the many potential paths for accountants, to give you a clearer picture of what the profession entails. Additionally, it's also helpful to look at where the largest concentrations of accounting professionals are employed. The following chart breaks down the number of professionals at the leading accounting firms in the United States in 2024, giving you a more comprehensive view of where CPAs and accountants are making their mark at scale.

How can emerging technologies and online education reshape your accounting career?

Advancements in digital tools and online learning platforms are opening new avenues for both CPAs and accountants. Many professionals now enhance their core competencies with specialized tech skills, enabling greater efficiency in tasks such as automated data analysis, real‑time reporting, and regulatory compliance management. Furthermore, online education offers flexible avenues for acquiring in‑demand skills without compromising current work commitments. For instance, pursuing a cheapest accredited online accounting degree can provide cost‑effective access to modern accounting practices and innovative analytical tools. This integration of technology and streamlined learning formats is reshaping career trajectories, allowing individuals to stay ahead of industry demands while continuously optimizing their professional skill set.

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Staying current with industry trends and regulatory updates is essential for both CPAs and accountants. Regular professional development not only refreshes core competencies but also introduces emerging technical skills and leadership strategies that differentiate seasoned professionals. For CPAs, mandatory continuing education reinforces legal and ethical standards, while accountants can enhance their portfolios by pursuing specialized certifications and targeted training. This commitment to lifelong learning plays a pivotal role in career progression, influencing decision-making, adaptability, and ultimately, compensation benchmarks such as the accountant salary.

Can affordable online accounting associate degree programs kickstart your accounting career?

For emerging professionals, pursuing an associate degree in accounting offers a cost-effective entry point that builds a solid foundation in financial principles and operational practices. This pathway not only enables quicker entry into entry-level roles but also fosters skills essential for future specialization and advancement in the accounting field. By combining practical coursework with flexible, remote learning options, students can balance professional responsibilities while acquiring vital competencies. Exploring affordable online accounting associate degree programs may reveal strategic opportunities to accelerate career progression and expand access to further credentials over time.

What are the different career paths for a CPA vs. an Accountant?

As businesses grow more data-driven and regulations more complex, skilled financial professionals are more essential than ever. In fact, there are about 130,800 job openings for CPAs and accountants combined in the US (BLS, 2024), a pace that outranks the average for all occupations. That growth reflects not just demand—but the increasing diversification of roles in the financial field.

Let’s explore the distinct trajectories that open up based on your path:

CPA Career Paths:

Audit Partner at a Public Accounting Firm: A classic trajectory where CPAs climb from associate to partner, managing major client relationships and audit strategy.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO): With their deep knowledge of compliance and financial planning, CPAs often rise to executive roles.
Tax Specialist or Consultant: CPAs can specialize in corporate or international tax strategy, helping clients minimize liabilities.
Forensic Accountant: Works in fraud investigation and legal support. If you're wondering, "What degree do you need to be a forensic expert?," the simple answer is an accounting degree. Having this background for forensic certifications is essential.
Controller: Oversees internal controls, budgeting, and reporting in mid-size to large enterprises, typically requiring CPA licensure.

Accountant Career Paths:

Bookkeeper or Staff Accountant: Entry-level roles managing daily financial transactions and reconciliations.
Cost Accountant: Focuses on pricing, budgeting, and cost efficiency within manufacturing or retail environments.
Financial Analyst: While not always CPA-required, strong accounting skills help analysts interpret financial data for business insights.
Payroll or AP/AR Manager: Specializations that offer steady progression in operational accounting functions.
Internal Auditor: Accountants can move into audit-focused roles within corporations, particularly after gaining industry experience.

CPA vs. Accountant: Which role will have a higher demand in the future?

While both CPAs and accountants are projected to see steady job growth—6% from 2023 to 2033, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024)—, that demand is being shaped by deeper structural forces: mass retirements, workforce exits, and a rising reliance on technology. The big question is not if the profession is growing, but where the greatest opportunities will lie.

Similarly, professionals often ask, "Is a master's in healthcare administration worth it?" Just like in accounting, advancing your education can open doors to specialized roles and higher demand in competitive fields.

The answer increasingly points toward CPAs. As routine accounting tasks, like data entry and basic reconciliation, are gradually automated, the need for professionals who can provide advanced analysis, ensure compliance, and navigate complex regulatory environments is only rising.

Furthermore, Tipalti (2025) confirms this trend, noting that automation is steadily transforming the need for traditional, manual accounting roles. That doesn’t mean accountants are becoming obsolete—it means the bar is getting higher. Much like the evolving field of sustainability, where sustainability manager education requirements now emphasize a blend of technical knowledge and leadership skills to meet growing corporate responsibilities.

With their rigorous qualifications, legal authority, and ability to handle high-stakes financial matters, CPAs are positioned at the forefront of this evolution. In fact, the Society for Human Resource Management (2023) confirms that there is a CPA shortage in today’s market—a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. A growing web of tax codes, evolving financial regulations, and stricter compliance standards will continue fueling the demand for skilled accountants with CPA credentials.

Becoming a CPA vs. an Accountant: Which is better for you?

The accounting world is like a deck of cards: every role plays a part, but only a few carry the weight of an ace. Accountants keep the game running—balancing ledgers, spotting patterns, making sure no numbers fall through the cracks. But CPAs? They hold the cards that can change the game entirely. With specialized credentials and legal authority, they’re brought in when the stakes are high—audits, mergers, compliance, and beyond. Just as understanding what does a supply chain manager do is crucial in operations, grasping the nuances of CPA responsibilities can set you apart in finance.

So, if you’re deciding between these two paths, it’s not just a question of numbers—it’s a question of narrative. What role do you want to play in the story of a company’s success? For professionals considering further education beyond accounting, it’s helpful to compare potential earnings, such as the average DBA salary, which can reflect the value of advanced business administration degrees in leadership positions.

Consider becoming an accountant if you prefer:

Getting to Work Sooner: You can launch your career with just an associate or bachelor's degree, no licensing hurdles required.
Versatility Without Deep Specialization: From payroll to budgeting, you can handle a wide range of tasks without needing to niche down.
A Steady, Structured Environment: Many general accounting roles offer reliable hours and clear expectations, ideal for those who value consistency.

Consider becoming a CPA if you prefer:

Commanding Authority in Finance: You want the credentials to sign off on audits, represent clients before the IRS, and advise at the highest level.
Pursuing Advanced Roles: Whether it's forensic accounting, corporate finance, or public auditing, CPA status opens doors that remain shut to non-licensed peers.
Building a Premium Career Trajectory: You're in it for the long game—higher pay, strategic influence, and leadership opportunities down the line.

Can entrepreneurial skills boost your accounting career?

Integrating an entrepreneurial mindset is becoming a vital asset for both CPAs and accountants in today’s dynamic financial landscape. Leveraging innovative strategies and creative problem‐solving skills can enable professionals to drive business growth, optimize operational processes, and introduce new revenue streams. Such an approach not only complements traditional financial expertise but also equips practitioners to navigate competitive markets and evolving industry demands. Exploring areas like the benefits of entrepreneurship degree can offer valuable insights into combining technical accounting skills with strategic business innovation.

Here’s What Accountants and CPAs Have to Say About Their Careers

“After I passed the CPA exam, I was promoted within six months and entrusted with leading audits for publicly traded clients. The added credibility opened doors I didn’t even know existed—consulting roles, advisory work, even international assignments. More than just a certification, the CPA license gave me a sense of confidence and authority in rooms that once felt out of reach. It’s been challenging, but immensely rewarding.” — Darren
“With just a bachelor’s degree, I landed a job in a mid-sized firm and quickly realized how essential accountants are to a company’s day-to-day health. I’ve built long-term client relationships and helped small businesses make smart, data-driven decisions. It’s fulfilling to be the person people turn to when they need clarity around their finances. There’s real purpose in that kind of trust.” — Lena
“People assume accounting is just numbers on a spreadsheet, but as a CPA working in forensic accounting, I’m constantly investigating, problem-solving, and even testifying in legal cases. Every day feels like solving a financial mystery. This career blends analytical thinking with real-world impact, and I never feel like I'm standing still professionally. I love that I get to make complex issues clear—and meaningful.” — Raj

Key Findings

There are approximately 1,562,000 CPAs and accountants employed across the US.
On average, it takes about five years of education to meet the 150-credit-hour requirement most states enforce.
A CPA’s salary can reach up to $146,500, while accountants earn a competitive $108,500 at the higher end.
There are about 130,800 job openings for CPAs and accountants combined in the US.
While both CPAs and accountants are projected to see steady job growth—6% from 2023 to 2033—that demand is being shaped by deeper structural forces: mass retirements, workforce exits, and a rising reliance on technology.

Other Things You Should Know About CPA vs. Accountant

Can an accountant become a CFO without a CPA license?

Yes, an accountant can become a CFO without a CPA license, especially in private companies or startups where leadership skills, financial strategy, and business acumen carry more weight than credentials. However, in large public companies or highly regulated industries, a CPA license is often preferred—or even expected—due to the complex reporting and compliance requirements. That said, many CFOs come from varied backgrounds including finance, operations, or even engineering. The key factors are experience, leadership, and a strong command of financial management.

Can an accountant perform the same services as a CPA?

No, not entirely. While both CPAs and accountants can handle tasks like bookkeeping, financial reporting, and budgeting, only CPAs can perform certain legally regulated functions. For example, CPAs can audit financial statements, represent clients before the IRS, and issue opinions on public company financials—accountants without the CPA designation cannot. These legal distinctions are what give CPAs a competitive edge in many industries.

How do job opportunities differ for CPAs vs. Accountants in public vs. private sectors?

In the public sector, especially at accounting firms, CPAs are typically favored because they can legally sign audit reports and provide attestation services. These roles often lead to rapid career advancement and client-facing opportunities. In the private sector, both CPAs and accountants can find roles in corporate finance, but CPAs often qualify for higher-level positions like controller or CFO. Overall, CPAs generally enjoy more flexibility and a broader range of career options.

What are the ethical and legal responsibilities of a CPA vs. an Accountant?

CPAs are bound by strict ethical codes and legal responsibilities set by state boards and the AICPA, including mandatory continuing education and a duty to act in the public interest. They can be held legally accountable for misconduct in audits, tax filings, and financial opinions. Accountants without CPA credentials also follow professional standards, but they're not held to the same regulatory oversight or legal liabilities. This heightened accountability is one reason CPAs are trusted with high-stakes financial responsibilities.