What is a CPA?

A CPA—Certified Public Accountant—is a financial professional who speaks the language of business. Today's CPA is in high demand as one of the most valued members of any business team.

CPAs are valued professionals who are running major corporations, starting exciting entrepreneurial endeavors and developing their own practices that handle much more than tax returns. CPAs do many things for businesses and individuals. Basically they analyze how money is used by businesses, non-profit organizations, governments and individuals. If it's about money, it starts with accounting.

What are the requirements to become a CPA?

To become a CPA, you need to meet the requirements of the state or jurisdiction in which you wish to practice. These requirements, which vary from state to state, are established by law and administered by the state boards of accountancy.

Qualifying for Licensure in Georgia

  Education

Education requirements to apply for a CPA license in Georgia vary depending on the date the applicant initially sat for the CPA Exam.

Requirements for licensure if your initial sitting for the CPA Exam was prior to January 1, 1998:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Twenty (20) semester hours in accounting above the introductory level

Requirements for licensure if your initial sitting for the CPA Exam was after January 1, 1998:

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher
  • Total of 150 semester hours of education
  • Thirty (30) semester hours in Accounting above the introductory level
  • Twenty-four (24) semester hours in business related subjects

  Exam

One general requirement to apply for a CPA license in Georgia is that you must have passed the Uniform CPA Exam.

  Experience

One (1) year of continuous qualifying experience:
  • Must include a minimum of 2,000 hours
  • Must be completed not more than one (1) year immediately preceding the date of application
  • Must be under the supervision of an active CPA in good standing

NOTE: The Georgia Board may accept, in lieu of such year of experience in public accounting, evidence satisfactory to the Board of one (1) year of continuous employment in the accounting field in industry, business, academia or government. For more information, please visit the NASBA website

For more information regarding eligibility to take the exam or to receive licensure in Georgia, contact the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) at galicense@nasba.org or by calling (866) 350-0017.

Where do CPAs work?

CPAs work in public accounting, business and industry, government and education. Within these areas, CPAs generally specialize in what they do. They are chief financial officers for Fortune 500 companies and advisers to small neighborhood businesses. They work for public accounting firms, both small and large. They are well-respected strategic business advisers and decision-makers. They act as consultants on many issues, including taxes and accounting.

What is the Earning Potential for a CPA?

Download the 2018 Robert Half Salary Guide for Accounting and Finance to see starting pay ranges for hundreds of accounting and finance positions nationwide. The accounting Salary Guide features up-to-date information, including:

  • Accounting and finance salary figures for more than 400 positions
  • An overview of the hiring environment and emerging trends
  • Insight into where the jobs will be in 2018
  • In-demand skills that lead to higher compensation

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the
 Member Services Department at 800-330-8889, extension 2986.