How to Become a Bookkeeper in Kentucky

A bookkeeper is a person who knows a lot about accounting, sometimes mixed up with an accountant.

This job suits people who are good at math and are neat.

Their main task is to record sales, purchases, and other money stuff that happens in a company.

It’s an office job that usually stays steady, and if you’re interested in becoming a bookkeeper in Kentucky, you’re in the right spot!

Keep reading for more info!

How to Become – Step by Step

You should know that bookkeepers in this state find jobs by taking one of the following paths:

• Education
• Practice

No matter what you choose, both these methods share the first step.

Step 1 – Earn Your High School Diploma

Before anything else, you need to complete high school and earn a diploma.

This is a requirement, however, you can also get a GED as an alternative if you can’t get a high school diploma at the moment.

Step 2 Education – Earn a Degree

You don’t have to get a degree because some employers hire accountants who learn through hands-on experience.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) suggests that most jobs might ask for some college education.

You can pick between two types of degrees:

• Associate’s Degree
• Bachelor’s Degree

But whichever you choose, it should be in accounting or business.

Step 2 Practice – Gain Experience

To take this step, you must have worked for at least 1 year but no more than 2.

The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) needs 2 years of experience for a license.

However, the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) only asks for 1 year of experience for certification.

Step 3 Education – Gain on-the-job Training

Bookkeepers need some training on the job if they choose the education path.

This training usually lasts for 6 months.

During this period you’ll have to get used to working with the appropriate software at the pace your employer requires.

Step 3 Practice – Earn Credentials

If you’re taking this route, having a certification on your resume is mandatory.

Having two would be even better.

Here are the certifications you can get:

• Certified Bookkeeping Professional (CPB) from NACPB
• Certified Bookkeeper (CB) license from AIPB

Both NACPB and AIPB are nationally recognized organizations.

To get these certifications, you will need to pass all four exams they offer.

The first two exams are held at specific testing centers.

For the last two tests, you can use your workbook during the exam.

These certifications are available to both those who chose the educational path and those who didn’t.

You’ll need to keep your skills sharp by completing 24 hours of training every year.

Bookkeeping Programs in Kentucky

After you have all the info on education, it is time to see what programs you can join.

Eastern Kentucky University

For just $2,195, you gain access to an online training program offered by the University of Southern Indiana.

The tuition can be paid in installments and covers the exam fee.

Upon completion of the program, you’ll be prepared to sit for the AIPB Certified Bookkeeper certification.

This self-paced course spans 140 hours and can be completed in 6 months.

Enrollment is open at any time, as the program is available 100% online.

WKU Continuing and Professional Development

This online program teaches professional bookkeepers everything they need to know.

It goes through important concepts and prepares you for the national certification test by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB).

While in the program, you can learn by watching videos, engaging in activities, and practicing quizzes.

All these will help you pass the exam and become a successful bookkeeper.

University of Kentucky

This university has 3 accounting programs as can be seen below:

• Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting
• BSBA/MS Accounting
• Finance BBA

All 3 programs have a duration of 4 years.

Also, all 3 diploma programs take place in the Von Allmen School of Accountancy.

The first course requires 120 semester hours to graduate.

Candidates to the program must meet these prerequisites:

• The pre-major courses for accounting majors
• At least 27 credit hours of coursework

Bookkeeper Salary in Kentucky

When you’re thinking about your job choices, it’s natural to wonder how much you might make when you start.

In Kentucky, the typical salary for these pros is about $41,598 each year.

Lots of things can affect this amount, and below you’ll see which cities offer higher salaries.

Regional Salary in Kentucky

Bookkeeper Schools by State