Most people think of accountants when tax day approaches each April - however, an accounting career can cover much more than filling out returns at tax time. Indeed, Business TN said, Certified Practicing Accountants (CPAs) can be "vital" to the success and growth of many types of business. The roles a CPA fills for a business can include conducting an audit, advising on acquisitions and transactions, or providing general accounting consultancy. According to the Department of Labor, almost every business sector requires accounting services and CPAs often work anywhere from health care to retail to private equity. In addition to working with businesses, accountants can also assist individuals in personal finance planning, retirement planning and wealth management, Business TN added. There are also accounting opportunities with state and federal government, through agencies such as the Internal Revenue Service. Figures from the DOL show there were 1.3 million accountants and auditors working in the United States in 2006. This number is forecast to grow by 18% by 2016. The median average earnings for these positions in May 2006 were $54,630.  |