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Bookkeeper, Accountant, or CPA? Decision Checklist

Two checklists in one: who to hire for your business right now, and which path to train for if you're the one considering a career in bookkeeping or accounting.

No email required · Printable PDF · Everything below is also on this page

A calculator and pen resting on a financial chart

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Part 1 — Who Should You Hire?

Check every box that's true for your business right now:

  • I just need my day-to-day transactions recorded accurately → a bookkeeper, or DIY with a template
  • I need help interpreting my numbers, budgeting, or planning for taxes → an accountant
  • I need an audit, complex tax representation, or a signature a bank/investor requires → a CPA
  • I'm comfortable doing my own books with a template and a second opinion → you may not need to hire anyone yet

The Quick Comparison

RoleWhat They DoTypical EducationLegal Authority
BookkeeperRecords day-to-day transactions: sales, expenses, invoices, depositsNo degree required — a course, under a yearNone beyond standard business practice
AccountantInterprets records: financial statements, tax organization, advisingBachelor's degree in accounting/finance (typical)Not a licensed/regulated title
CPAEverything an accountant does, plus higher-stakes work150 credit hours (U.S.) + CPA exam + supervised experienceCan sign audited statements, represent clients before the IRS

Part 2 — Which One Should You Train to Become?

Check every box that's true for you:

  • I want to start working with numbers fast, without years of school first → start with bookkeeping
  • I have (or want) a bachelor's degree and want more analytical/advisory work → aim for accounting
  • I want the highest ceiling and the legal authority to do audits and complex tax work → aim for CPA
  • I'm not sure yet → start with the fundamentals (debits, credits, financial statements) — the same starting point for all three paths

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this checklist the same as the blog post?
It's the condensed, printable version of the full guide. Read the complete explanation, including the Canada-specific CPA note and pay ranges, in the blog post linked below.
Do I need to pick just one?
No. Most small businesses use a blend — DIY or a bookkeeper for weekly work, plus a CPA once a year for taxes.
Is this licensing advice?
No. This is a plain-English overview, not licensing, tax, or legal advice. Requirements vary by state/province and change over time.

Related Resources

Full Guide: Bookkeeper vs. Accountant vs. CPA
Read the complete comparison
Free Mini-Courses
Start with the fundamentals
The Academy
The full curriculum, chapter by chapter
Learn the Basics
Plain-English guides by topic

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