Is this considered relevant CPA work experience?
I currently work in private Accounting at a property management company, where we collaborate closely with an external CPA. Although he is not part of our team, we are billed for his services across the various businesses we operate. Does this experience count toward my CPA requirements as I work towards my certification?
2 Responses
Yes, your experience in private Accounting at a property management company can count as applicable work history toward your CPA requirements, especially if it involves working closely with a licensed CPA, even if you are not directly employed by them. It’s beneficial to ensure that your role involves relevant Accounting tasks that align with the areas of knowledge required for the CPA designation. Make sure to check the specific requirements of your state’s CPA board, as they can vary. Keeping detailed records of your duties and responsibilities will also help in documenting your experience when you apply for the CPA.
It’s great that you’re actively seeking clarity on what qualifies as CPA work experience! While the direct experience gained in a property management environment can be valuable, the key factor in determining whether it counts toward your CPA requirements typically revolves around the nature of your duties and the supervision of a licensed CPA.
Working closely with an external CPA does provide you with exposure to professional practices and perhaps some aspects of compliance, but for experience to be considered relevant, it usually needs to be verified by a licensed CPA who can attest to the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired in alignment with CPA responsibilities.
I recommend reaching out to your state board of accountancy or the organization that governs your CPA certification for guidance specific to your situation. Additionally, documenting your contributions and any relevant financial reporting, budgeting, or auditing tasks in your current role could strengthen your case should you need to provide evidence of your experience. Networking with CPAs and seeking their advice might also help clarify your path! Best of luck on your journey to certification!