In a rapidly changing world, many are looking for ways to make a successful career without years of schooling. One such career path is accounting. Whether or not you are simply getting started, switching careers or re-entering the workforce, you might be thinking, How did you get here? How do you become an accountant in 2025 in the quickest way?
The good news is, it's possible to start working in the accounting field without spending four or more years in college. This article is going to show you the way to get started on your journey to being a professional accountant faster than ever with these actions, abilities and shortcuts laid out.
Why Work in Accounting?
Accounting is a stable and popular profession. In the United States, over 1.4 million accountants and auditors work, with a huge number of job openings projected through the season, based on the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. Everybody needs a person to work their finances, file taxes, and ensure everything runs smoothly for any business, small or big.
And accounting has many career pathways, from bookkeeping and payroll to tax planning and auditing. You could be employed in a corporate office, sign up for a little firm or launch your very own practice.
Steps to Become an Accountant in 2025
Below are the steps that can help you become an accountant this year:
Step 1 : Choose What Kind of Accountant You Want to Be
Before you jump into the Quickest way to be an accountant, know the kinds of accounting roles. Below are some common ones:
- Bookkeeper: Handles basic financial records and transactions.
- Staff Accountant: Creates financial statements and assists with audits.
- Tax Preparer: Files income taxes for individuals or companies.
- CPA: A licensed expert for more complex work including audits and financial advising.
The more advanced the role, the higher the training and education you will require. But in case you wish to jump in rapidly, begin as a bookkeeper or tax preparer.
Step 2 : Choose a Fast Track Education Path
The standard four year bachelor's degree in accounting or finance was needed for accountants. This is still preferred for senior positions but no longer the only route.
Some quicker education options in 2025 :
1.Associate degree in accounting (2 years or less)
Offered at numerous community colleges and online schools, this degree may teach basic accounting, bookkeeping, payroll & tax prep. It could get you entry level jobs and credits towards a future bachelor's if desired.
2. Online accounting Certifications (3-12 months)
Some platforms like Coursera, edX and LinkedIn Learning provide certificate programs in Bookkeeping, QuickBooks or Tax Accounting. These are for you in case you want to discover the quickest way to be an accountant without returning to school full time.
3. Professional Certifications
Become a Certified Bookkeeper (CB), Enrolled Agent (EA), or QuickBooks ProAdvisor. These credentials are usually acquired in under a year and therefore are a plus to clients or employers.
Step 3 : Learn Accounting Tools and Software
Contemporary accountants utilize technology. Would you like to enter the field quickly? find out to use popular accounting software. This gives you a competitive edge, even if you haven't got a degree just yet.
Here are tools worth mastering:
- Xero
- FreshBooks
- MS Excel
- Drake Tax or ProSeries (for tax prep)
They're usually included in certification programs or are learned via free tutorials and web based practice.
Step 4 : Get Hands On Experience
Even in case you are learning fast, experience counts. Here are quick ways to get it:
1. Internships or Entry Level Jobs
Find part-time or remote accounting jobs. Even bookkeeping jobs or data entry build your skills. Smaller businesses are open to hiring somebody still learning in case you are taking initiative.
2. Volunteer for Nonprofits
Give your books to a nearby non profit organization. It is excellent practice, you are able to include it in your resume.
3. Freelance on Upwork or Fiverr
Many small business proprietors need assistance with tax prep, invoice tracking or payroll. When you get confidence you can provide services online and get genuine client experience.
Step 5: Develop a Resume and Online Presence
With some experience and skills gained, develop a professional resume and LinkedIn profile. Highlight your certifications, accounting tools and practical work.
Develop a free site or portfolio of your services, particularly in case you intend to freelance or even apply for remote jobs.
Step 6 : Seek Long Term Credentials (If Required)
You do not need to become a CPA to begin working, however in case you wish to build your career and improve your salary you might eventually pursue one of the following:
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant): Requires 150 college credits, passing examination, and work experience.
- EA (Enrolled Agent): Special IRS license for tax professionals.
- CMA (Certified Management Accountant): Focus on internal business accounting.
These take more time but are worth considering eventually once you are working and earning.
The Fastest Way for Career Change
When you are changing out of another field, the quickest way to be an accountant could be to:
- Take a 3-6 month bookkeeping/tax course.
- Learn software like QuickBooks.
- Freelance or get a small firm job.
- Work your way up and decide if even more certification is essential.
This particular hands-on route works for adults who do not wish to begin from scratch at college.
Stay Away From Common Mistakes
- Waiting too long to begin : Thinking you are not "fully qualified" to start learning or even applying.
- Ignoring software skills: knowing Excel and QuickBooks is often more useful compared to theory.
- Not networking: Join online discussion boards, Facebook groups or regional meetings to network along with other accounting professionals.
- Skipping taxes: Tax prep is an enormous piece of accounting, learn it.
Related Resources
- Hire an Accountant For Your Business: Benefits, Eligibility, Process
- Hire an Accountant in New York for Small Business Success
- Top 5 Reasons to Hire a CPA Accountant for Your Small Business
There are far more flexible ways to quickly become an accountant in 2025. Regardless of whether you're a student, a stay-at-home mom, or a full time individual searching for something different, the quickest route to becoming an accountant is through fast track education, software and real life experience.
You don't require a degree or years of school. You can be working in entry level accounting jobs in a year or a few months with online learning, no cost tools and hustle. After that, as your professional career advances, you determine whether to be an EA or CPA. Connect with our experts at The Fino Partners to learn more.
