How to Become a Bookkeeper in Florida

Bookkeepers, often confused with accountants, possess a foundation in accountancy.

This profession demands proficiency in mathematics and organizational abilities.

Their responsibilities include monitoring company transactions such as sales and purchases.

Offering stability, it’s primarily an office-based role.

If pursuing a career as a bookkeeper in Florida intrigues you, read on for more insights!

How to Become – Step by Step

If you want to work as a bookkeeper in Florida, you have to follow one of these ways:

• Education
• Practice

Regardless of which route you choose, the following step is the same for everyone.

Step 1 – Earn Your High School Diploma

Keep in mind that you will first need to get a high school diploma.

You can also go for a GED if you can’t get a high-school diploma.

Whatever you choose, you do need a high-school diploma or GED to continue pursuing your dream job.

Step 2 Education – Earn a Degree

While a degree isn’t obligatory, numerous employers prioritize practical experience over formal education when hiring accountants.

However, according to the BLS, some form of postsecondary education is recommended.

You have two-degree paths to consider:

• Associate’s Degree
• Bachelor’s Degree

Regardless of your choice, the degree should ideally be in accounting or possibly business.

Step 2 Practice – Gain Experience

The subsequent stage entails acquiring anywhere from one to two years of hands-on experience.

AIPB requires a two-year experience threshold for certification eligibility.

In contrast, NACPB mandates only one year of experience for licensure qualification.

Step 3 Education – Gain on-the-job Training

Achieving success as a bookkeeper frequently relies on practical, on-the-job training.

Usually lasting around six months, this training period is pivotal.

Throughout this duration, you’ll develop proficiency in utilizing essential software tailored to meet your employer’s requirements.

Step 3 Practice – Earn Credentials

When aiming for credentials, securing at least one is crucial.

However, your opportunities expand significantly with dual credentials.

Here are the credentials you can pursue:

• Certified Professional Bookkeeper (CPB) designation provided by NACPB
• Certified Bookkeeper (CB) certification provided by the AIPB

Both NACPB and AIPB are nationally recognized organizations offering these credentials.

Obtaining these credentials involves taking four exams administered by these associations.

The first two exams occur at specified testing centers, while the subsequent two are open-book, allowing you to refer to your manual during the test.

Even if you choose an educational path to become a bookkeeper, you remain eligible for these licenses.

Keep in mind, however, that an additional 24 hours of training is necessary.

Bookkeeping Programs in Florida

So, read below to see where you can train as a bookkeeper in this state.

Florida Gulf Coast University

The program offered by this school is meant for future bookkeepers seeking to enhance their expertise through accreditation.

This program costs $2,195 and lasts for 6 months.

There are many benefits to enrolling in this program:

• Reinforces key bookkeeping concepts, definitions, and calculations
• Prepares you for the AIPB national certification exam
• Access to resources like videos, interactive activities, and hands-on exercises
• Practice quizzes, exams, and preparation strategies included

AIPB certification sets a high professional standard

Becoming a Certified Bookkeeper (CB) can increase earning potential and enhance professional status.

The classes include subjects like:

• Learn AIPB CB designation eligibility, code of ethics, and maintenance requirements.
• Apply accrual accounting concepts to transactions spanning fiscal periods.
• Master adjustment of entries, identify and correct accounting errors, and reconcile bank accounts.
• Complete book and tax depreciation, various methods of calculation.
• Basics of payroll, from wage payment to tax deposit and reporting.
• Value inventory, record costs, make entries, and report on financial statements.
• Use basic internal controls to prevent theft, embezzlement, or fraud.

University of West Florida

This university offers only an online course for Bookkeeping and Payroll Management.

This course costs $3,845.

You’ll have to complete the program at your own pace in 12 months.

Unlike with other courses, there are no prerequisites to meet, and no previous experience is needed either.

Bookkeeper Salary in Florida

Before embarking on a career as a bookkeeper, it’s common to contemplate potential earnings.

In the state of Florida, bookkeepers typically earn an average annual salary of around $41,996.

Several elements, such as education and geographic location, play a role in determining this figure.

Check out the following list to pinpoint cities where bookkeepers command higher salaries.

Regional Salary in Florida

Bookkeeper Schools by State