With multiple accounting and finance certifications available, it’s important to understand your options, requirements, and benefits to make an informed decision about which path aligns with your career goals.
Certified Professional Bookkeeper (CPB)
The Certified Professional Bookkeeper credential is one of the most practical certifications for professionals managing financial records, bookkeeping, and accounting operations. Pairing this certification with courses like Professional Bookkeeping with QuickBooks can help strengthen technical skills in accounting software.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
The CPA is the most widely recognized accounting credential in the U.S. CPAs handle areas such as taxes, compliance, risk management, and forensic accounting. Offered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the CPA exam includes four parts, and candidates typically require approximately 150 hours of higher education credits and at least one year of relevant work experience.
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
The CFA credential focuses on investment analysis, portfolio management, and financial economics. Administered by the CFA Institute, the CFA exam has three levels, and candidates need a bachelor’s degree plus four years of professional experience in financial services.
One-time enrollment fee: $350
3 levels of the exam: $900-$1,200 (depending on when you register)
Approximate total cost: $3,050-$3,950
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
The CFP certification highlights expertise in financial planning, taxes, insurance, and retirement strategies. The exam includes two three-hour sessions on the same day and is offered only a few times per year.
Approximate total cost: $825-$1,025
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
The CIA exam is conducted by the Institute of Internal Auditors and includes three sections. The cost to become a CIA varies depending on a person’s status as a student, member, or non-member. These are the approximate costs to becoming a Certified Internal Auditor:
CIA application: $65-$130
3 levels of the exam: $675-$1,215 (depending on status as member or student)
Approximate total cost: $740-$1,345
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
CFEs focus on detecting and preventing financial fraud. Offered by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), the CFE exam has four sections, each containing 100 multiple-choice questions.
The CFE exam may be taken online or in person and costs $450.
Enrolled Agent
EAs are authorized by the IRS to represent taxpayers in matters of taxation. The three-part EA exam costs approximately $609 in total.
The Enrolled Agent exam has three parts, each costing $203 bringing the total cost to $609.
Benefits of Earning Accounting and Finance Certifications
Professional certifications demonstrate expertise, enhance your career mobility, and often result in higher salaries. For professionals who move frequently, including military spouses or those seeking remote opportunities, these credentials provide recognition across states and employers. Certifications also prepare you for advanced roles, leadership positions, and specialized areas within accounting or finance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an accounting certificate worth it?
Yes. Certifications make you more competitive, increase earning potential, and expand career opportunities, especially if you relocate or seek leadership positions.
What is the highest accounting certificate?
The CPA is the most well-known accounting certification in the U.S., representing advanced knowledge, expertise, and professional credibility.
Is the CPA or CFA harder to acquire?
Many professionals consider the CFA more challenging due to its three-level exam and advanced investment-related concepts beyond standard accounting practices.