Top 11 Account Assistant Certifications

Certifications are important for account assistants in the job market because they demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skill level. Certified account assistants typically have a higher earning potential than those without certifications. Employers value certified accountants because they have already completed rigorous coursework and passed exams that demonstrate their ability to understand and interpret financial statements, budgeting, tax laws, and other accounting principles. Having a certification also shows employers that the individual is committed to staying up-to-date on industry trends, practices, and regulations. Furthermore, certifications provide credibility to the accountant's resume when applying for jobs or promotions.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Account Assistants and explain how they can contribute to an Account Assistant's career.

What are Account Assistant Certifications?

Account assistant certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a person’s knowledge of accounting principles and procedures. It is designed to help individuals gain the skills and confidence necessary for success in entry-level accounting positions. Account assistant certifications are typically earned by completing coursework, passing exams, and having the appropriate experience.

The primary benefit of obtaining account assistant certification is improved job prospects. Having a certified credential on your resume can make you more attractive to employers, as it shows them that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform well in an accounting role. The certification also provides employers with assurance that you understand basic accounting concepts, such as debits and credits, financial statements, taxation, payroll processing, and bookkeeping. As such, many employers prefer to hire applicants who have obtained their account assistant certification over those who do not.

In addition to helping you get hired, having an account assistant certification can also lead to higher salaries or better job opportunities down the road. With the right credentials and experience under your belt, you may be able to advance further in your career than if you had no certification at all. Furthermore, possessing an account assistant certification will enable you to stay up-to-date with changes in the field of accounting so that you remain competitive in your profession.

Pro Tip: When considering an account assistant certification, make sure to look for a program that offers hands-on training and experience. This will help you develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your role as an account assistant. Additionally, be sure to research the available certifications and find one that is recognized by employers in your industry.

Related: What does an Account Assistant do?

Top 11 Account Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Account Assistants today.

1. Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB)

Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) is a professional certification for bookkeepers who demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the field of accounting. A CPB is a qualified individual who can provide financial services to businesses, organizations, and individuals. The CPB designation requires passing an exam administered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB).

It typically takes about six months to complete the necessary coursework and prepare for the exam, but this can vary depending on your prior experience with accounting and bookkeeping. To become a Certified Public Bookkeeper, you must pass the AIPB's comprehensive examination, which covers topics such as financial statements, taxation, payroll, cost accounting, auditing procedures, financial reporting standards, and more.

The cost of becoming a Certified Public Bookkeeper varies depending on where you live. In general, it will cost around $500-$1,000 to take the exam and become certified. This includes registration fees for the exam as well as any study materials or courses you may need to purchase in order to prepare for it.

Once you've passed the exam and become certified as a CPB, you'll be able to use your certification to demonstrate your expertise in bookkeeping and accounting practices to potential employers or clients. You'll also be eligible for membership in professional organizations such as the AIPB that offer additional resources and benefits for CPBs.

2. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is a professional certification in the field of management accounting. It is granted by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) to individuals who have met the educational and experience requirements and passed a two-part exam. The CMA credential demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in financial planning, analysis, control, decision support, and professional ethics.

To become a Certified Management Accountant, an individual must meet the following requirements:

1. Have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university;

2. Have two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management;

3. Pass the two-part CMA Exam administered by IMA; and

4. Agree to adhere to IMA's Code of Professional Conduct.

The CMA Exam consists of two parts: Part 1 – Financial Planning, Performance & Control and Part 2 – Financial Decision Making. Each part is four hours long and contains multiple-choice questions as well as essay type questions. Both parts must be completed within 18 months of starting the exam process in order to receive credit for taking it. The cost of taking the CMA Exam is $415 for IMA members and $555 for non-members.

3. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). The CIA certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in the field of internal auditing. It is one of the most widely recognized certifications for internal auditors and is accepted globally.

To become a Certified Internal Auditor, individuals must meet certain qualifications and pass three exams. The first exam covers topics such as risk-based auditing, governance, and ethics; the second exam focuses on IT audit and assurance; and the third exam covers business analysis and information systems.

The exams are offered at testing centers throughout the world on a regular basis. The cost for each exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$300 per exam.

In addition to passing all three exams, applicants must have two years of experience in internal auditing or related fields to qualify for the certification. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their official CIA certificate within 6-8 weeks after completing their last exam.

4. Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)

Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) is a professional certification program developed by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of financial professionals in the public sector. The CGFM program consists of three exams: Governmental Environment, Governmental Accounting, Auditing and Financial Reporting; and Governmental Financial Management and Control.

It typically takes between 18 months to two years to complete all three exams. To get started, you must first become a member of AGA. You can then register for the CGFM program online or by mail. Once registered, you will receive study materials that will help you prepare for each exam.

The cost of registering for the CGFM program is $225 plus applicable taxes. This fee includes access to study materials, practice tests, and registration fees for each exam. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking each exam which range from $125-$175 per test depending on your location.

5. Certified Professional Accountant (CPA)

Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) is a professional designation that is awarded to individuals who have met the educational, experience, and examination requirements set forth by the state boards of accountancy. CPAs are responsible for providing financial advice, auditing financial statements, preparing taxes, and performing other accounting services.

It typically takes four years to complete the CPA requirements, which include completing 150 college credits in accounting-related subjects and passing the Uniform CPA Examination. In order to sit for the exam, applicants must also meet certain work experience requirements.

In order to become a CPA, applicants must first apply with their respective state board of accountancy. The application process typically requires submitting an application fee, transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, and proof of work experience in accounting or related fields.

The cost of becoming a CPA varies depending on the state board of accountancy's fees and requirements. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $100-$1,000+ in application fees alone. Additionally, applicants may incur costs associated with taking the Uniform CPA Exam such as registration fees and study materials.

6. Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) is a professional designation for management accountants, offered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated excellence in financial reporting, strategic planning, budgeting, forecasting, and decision-making.

To become a CGMA, you must pass the AICPA’s CGMA exam. The exam consists of two parts: Part 1 covers topics such as financial reporting and analysis; Part 2 covers topics such as strategic planning and budgeting. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

You can register for the CGMA exam through the AICPA website. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location; it typically ranges from $250 to $500 USD. You will also need to pay an annual membership fee to maintain your CGMA status; this fee is currently set at $125 USD per year.

Once you have passed the exam and paid your membership fees, you will receive a certificate confirming that you are a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). This certificate is valid for life and can be used to demonstrate your expertise in management accounting to potential employers or clients.

7. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is a professional designation given by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board). The CFP designation is the highest standard of financial planning certification in the United States. It signifies that an individual has met rigorous education, examination, experience and ethical requirements set forth by the CFP Board.

To earn the CFP designation, individuals must complete a series of requirements including: completing a CFP Board-approved educational program; passing the comprehensive two-day CFP Certification Examination; obtaining three years of full-time financial planning related work experience; and agreeing to adhere to the CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility.

It typically takes between two and four years to complete all of these requirements. The cost for taking the exam can range from $550 to $1,500 depending on when you take it and where you take it. In addition, there are fees associated with joining the CFP Board and maintaining your certification that range from $325 to $400 per year.

8. Accredited Business Accountant/Advisor (ABA/ABA)

Accredited Business Accountant/Advisor (ABA/ABA) is a professional designation offered by the Institute of Certified Management Accountants (ICMA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the areas of financial management, business planning, and accounting. ABA/ABA holders are recognized as having the knowledge and skills necessary to provide advice and services to businesses.

To become an ABA/ABA, you must first become a member of ICMA. This requires passing an exam that covers topics such as financial management, accounting principles, business law, taxation, and strategic management. Once you have passed the exam and become a member of ICMA, you can then apply for the ABA/ABA designation. This process typically takes about six months from start to finish.

The cost for becoming an ABA/ABA depends on several factors such as your level of experience in the field and how much time you are willing to devote to studying for the exam. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1,000 USD depending on these factors.

Once you have earned your ABA/ABA designation, you will be able to demonstrate your expertise in financial management and accounting to potential employers or clients. You will also be eligible for special discounts on ICMA membership fees and other benefits such as access to exclusive job postings and networking opportunities with other professionals in the field.

9. Certified Treasury Professional (CTP)

Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) is a certification program offered by the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of treasury professionals. The CTP program is divided into two parts: the CTP Exam and the CTP Certification Program.

The CTP Exam is a three-hour computer-based exam that tests an individual’s understanding of treasury management principles and practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as cash management, risk management, corporate finance, investments, payments systems, international treasury operations, and more. To become certified, an individual must pass the CTP Exam with a score of at least 70%.

The CTP Certification Program requires individuals to demonstrate their commitment to professional development by completing a series of continuing education activities related to treasury management topics. These activities include attending AFP conferences or webinars; reading articles from AFP publications; taking online courses; or participating in other educational activities approved by AFP. Individuals must complete at least 30 hours of continuing education activities within five years after passing the CTP Exam in order to maintain their certification status.

It typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to prepare for the CTP Exam depending on your prior experience with treasury management topics. To get started you should review the study materials available on AFP’s website including practice tests and study guides. You can also take advantage of resources such as online courses or seminars offered by AFP or other organizations that specialize in treasury management training.

The cost for taking the CTP Exam varies depending on whether you are an AFP member or nonmember. For members it costs $450 while nonmembers pay $650 for the exam fee plus additional fees for any study materials purchased from AFP or third parties. The cost for maintaining your certification status includes annual membership dues which range from $125-$275 depending on your membership level as well as any additional fees associated with completing required continuing education activities.

10. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a professional designation given by the CFA Institute to financial professionals who have successfully completed a series of exams, gained relevant work experience, and demonstrated their commitment to the highest ethical standards. The CFA Program is designed to give financial professionals the skills and knowledge needed to make sound investment decisions in today’s complex global markets.

The CFA Program consists of three levels of examinations that must be passed sequentially. The exams are offered twice a year in June and December. Level I is typically taken after completing an undergraduate degree or its equivalent, while Levels II and III are usually taken after two to four years of professional experience in the investment industry.

The cost of taking all three levels of the CFA exam varies depending on when you register for each level, but it typically costs around $2,000 - $3,000 USD for all three levels combined.

To become a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), you must pass all three levels of the CFA Program within seven years and meet other requirements such as having at least four years of qualified work experience in the investment industry. Once you have met these requirements, you will receive your charter which allows you to use the title “Chartered Financial Analyst” (CFA).

11. Chartered Professional in Human Resources Accounting and Finance (CPHR-AF).

Chartered Professional in Human Resources Accounting and Finance (CPHR-AF) is a professional designation for those who have achieved the highest level of expertise in human resources accounting and finance. It is offered by the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada).

The CPHR-AF designation requires a minimum of five years of experience in the field of human resources accounting and finance, as well as completion of an approved program of study. Candidates must also successfully pass an examination administered by CPA Canada. The program typically takes two to three years to complete, including the examination.

In order to obtain the CPHR-AF designation, candidates must first become a member of CPA Canada and then register for the program. Once registered, they will be provided with access to online courses and materials that cover topics such as financial management, taxation, payroll administration, employee benefits, labour relations, and more. After completing all course requirements and passing the examination, candidates will receive their CPHR-AF designation.

The cost for obtaining the CPHR-AF designation depends on several factors such as location and type of program chosen. Generally speaking though, it can range from $2,000 - $4,000 CAD depending on individual circumstances.

Do You Really Need a Account Assistant Certificate?

No, you do not need an account assistant certificate to work in the accounting field. While a certificate may be beneficial and provide evidence of your knowledge and skills, it is not the only way to demonstrate your qualifications. There are many other ways to prove your accounting abilities, such as through experience, education and training.

Experience is often the best way to demonstrate your accounting abilities. Working in the field gives you hands-on knowledge that cannot be gained from any other source. You can also gain valuable insight into how certain tasks should be completed by observing others in the workplace. Furthermore, having a few years of experience can make you more attractive to potential employers than someone with an account assistant certificate but no practical experience.

Education is another key factor that employers consider when hiring for accounting positions. A degree in accounting or finance can give you a strong foundation of knowledge which can be used to further develop your career. In addition, taking courses related to accounting or business management can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and practices.

Finally, training is essential for staying ahead of the competition in the accounting field. Taking classes at professional associations or attending seminars will help keep you informed about new developments and technologies that could benefit your job performance or even open up new opportunities for advancement.

In conclusion, an account assistant certificate may be beneficial but it is not necessary for success in the accounting field. With proper education, experience and training, you can demonstrate your qualifications without relying on a certificate alone

Related: Account Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Account Assistant Certifications

1. What is an Account Assistant Certification?

Answer: An Account Assistant Certification is a professional qualification which demonstrates the holder's knowledge and understanding of the principles of accounting, bookkeeping, finance, and related areas. It provides recognition for those who have achieved a certain level of proficiency in these areas.

2. How do I become certified as an Account Assistant?

Answer: To become certified as an Account Assistant, you must pass the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) exam. This exam covers topics such as financial reporting, taxation, payroll processing, accounts receivable/payable, budgeting and forecasting, and other related subjects.

3. What are the benefits of becoming an Account Assistant?

Answer: Becoming an Account Assistant can open up many job opportunities in the accounting field. It also provides a great opportunity to enhance your professional skill set and build your resume. Additionally, having this certification can lead to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities.

4. How long does it take to become certified as an Account Assistant?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified as an Account Assistant varies depending on how much experience you have in the field and how quickly you can study for and pass the NACPB exam. Typically, it takes around 6 months or more to complete all requirements for certification.

5. Is there any ongoing training required for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, ongoing training is required for maintaining your certification with NACPB. You will need to stay informed about changes in laws or regulations that affect accounting practices so that you can continue to provide accurate advice to clients or employers. Additionally, continuing education courses may be necessary to keep your certification current and valid