Top 11 General Ledger Accountant Certifications

Certifications for a general ledger accountant are important in the job market because they demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to perform the duties of a general ledger accountant. They also provide employers with an assurance that the accountant has met certain standards and is qualified to handle accounting tasks. In addition, certifications can help an individual stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs, as many employers prefer to hire individuals who have achieved certifications in their field. Certifications also provide continuing education opportunities, which can help accountants stay up-to-date on changes in tax laws and other regulations. Finally, certifications may open up doors to higher paying positions or more specialized roles.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for General Ledger Accountants and explain how they can help to advance their career.

What are General Ledger Accountant Certifications?

General ledger accountant certification is a specialized accounting credential that demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a general ledger accountant. It is most often earned through completing a comprehensive professional education program, such as those offered by universities or professional organizations. This certification allows employers to verify an individual’s credentials and expertise in the field of general ledger accounting.

Those who earn this certification are able to demonstrate their understanding of complex financial reporting processes, such as journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial statement preparation. They also have a comprehensive knowledge of accounting principles, including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Additionally, they understand how to use various computer systems for accounting purposes and can analyze data to make sound business decisions.

Having general ledger accountant certification provides numerous benefits to both individuals and employers alike. For individuals, it can open up numerous career opportunities in the field of accounting and finance. Employers benefit from having certified employees on staff who are reliable professionals with the skills needed to efficiently perform their job duties. Furthermore, having certified professionals on staff adds credibility and trustworthiness to an organization’s financial statements.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a general ledger accountant certification, make sure to research the different certifications available and select one that is most relevant to your specific career goals. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices in order to maximize the value of your certification.

Related: What does a General Ledger Accountant do?

Top 11 General Ledger Accountant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to General Ledger Accountants today.

1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional designation given to individuals who have met certain educational and experience requirements set by their state boards of accountancy. CPAs are licensed by the individual states in which they practice, and must adhere to the highest ethical standards.

To become a CPA, one must first meet the education requirements set forth by their state board of accountancy. Generally, this includes completing 150 hours of college-level coursework in accounting and related subjects, such as finance, economics, business law, and auditing. In addition to coursework, most states also require applicants to pass the Uniform CPA Exam administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

The length of time it takes to become a CPA varies depending on an individual's educational background and experience. Most people take between two and four years to complete all of the necessary steps for licensure.

In order to become a CPA, applicants must submit an application with their state board of accountancy that includes proof of meeting educational requirements as well as passing scores from the Uniform CPA Exam. Applicants may also need to provide proof of work experience or other qualifications such as character references or background checks.

The cost for becoming a CPA varies depending on where you live and what type of services you need help with during the process. Generally speaking, costs can range from $1,000 - $3,000 for tuition fees alone; additional expenses may include exam fees ($200 - $1,000), application fees ($100 - $500), review courses ($100 - $2,000), study materials ($50 - $500), and other miscellaneous costs such as travel expenses or fingerprinting fees ($50 - $150).

2. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is a professional certification awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of financial planning, analysis, control, decision support, and professional ethics. The CMA credential is highly respected in the business world and can help you stand out from the competition in the job market.

To become a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), you must meet certain educational requirements and pass two exams administered by IMA. The first exam covers topics such as financial statement analysis, cost management, budgeting and forecasting, performance measurement and reporting, strategic planning, and internal controls. The second exam covers topics such as corporate finance, decision analysis, investments, risk management, information technology management, international business environment, and professional ethics.

It typically takes about 18 months to complete the CMA program. This includes studying for the exams as well as completing any additional coursework or experience requirements that may be necessary for certification.

To get started on your path to becoming a CMA you must first become an IMA member. Membership costs $220 per year ($110 for students). After becoming an IMA member you must then register for the CMA exams which cost $415 each ($310 for students). Additionally there are fees associated with re-taking failed exams or extending your registration period if needed.

In total it will cost approximately $1125-$1300 to become a Certified Management Accountant (CMA).

3. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in internal auditing. The CIA designation is recognized worldwide as the standard for excellence in the field of internal auditing.

The CIA program consists of three parts: an exam, experience requirements, and continuing professional education (CPE). To become certified, candidates must pass all three parts.

The exam consists of four sections: Essentials of Internal Auditing, Practice of Internal Auditing, Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing, and Information Technology. Each section has its own set of questions and topics that must be mastered before taking the exam. The exam can take up to 8 hours to complete.

To meet the experience requirements, candidates must have at least two years of professional internal auditing experience within the last five years prior to application.

The CPE requirement involves completing at least 120 hours of CPE every three years after becoming certified. The CPE must be related to internal auditing or other areas that are relevant to the profession such as accounting or finance.

The cost for the CIA program varies depending on where you take it and how you plan on studying for it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000 - $3,000 USD depending on your study materials and other associated costs such as travel expenses and registration fees.

4. Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) is a professional designation awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in management accounting, financial reporting, strategy development, risk management, and other related areas.

The CGMA designation requires passing an exam administered by the AICPA and CIMA. The exam consists of two parts: a written section and an online simulation. The written portion covers topics such as financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, performance measurement, business analysis, and strategic planning. The online simulation tests your ability to apply these concepts in a real-world setting.

To become a CGMA you must meet certain qualifications. These include having at least three years of full-time experience in professional accounting or finance roles; holding a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution; passing the CGMA exam; completing the required continuing education hours; and being in good standing with both AICPA and CIMA.

It typically takes around six months to prepare for the CGMA exam. There are several resources available to help you prepare for it including self-study materials from AICPA/CIMA as well as third-party prep courses from organizations such as Gleim or Becker Professional Education.

The cost of becoming a CGMA varies depending on which route you choose to take for preparation. The self-study materials from AICPA/CIMA cost around $1,000 while third-party prep courses can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on which one you choose. Additionally there is an application fee of $50 when you register for the exam and an additional fee of $250 when you submit your application to become certified.

5. Certified Financial Manager (CFM)

Certified Financial Manager (CFM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Certified Financial Managers (ICFM). The CFM certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in financial management and have met the highest standards of professional practice.

To become a CFM, you must meet certain educational, experience, and ethical requirements. To qualify for the CFM exam, you must have at least three years of full-time experience in financial management or related fields. You also need to complete an approved course in financial management or pass an online examination administered by ICFM.

The CFM exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as accounting principles, financial analysis, budgeting and forecasting, investments, risk management, and strategic planning. It takes approximately four hours to complete the exam.

The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $225 to $300 USD. You may also be required to pay additional fees for study materials or other services related to the exam.

Once you have passed the CFM exam, you will receive a certificate that is valid for life and can be used to demonstrate your expertise in financial management.

6. Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)

Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) is a certification program offered by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of government financial management. The CGFM certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of governmental accounting, auditing, financial reporting, budgeting/finance, and internal control.

The CGFM program consists of three exams that must be taken sequentially:

1. Governmental Environment

2. Governmental Accounting & Financial Reporting

3. Governmental Budgeting & Finance

It usually takes about six months to a year to complete all three exams depending on your study habits and preparation time. To become certified, you must pass all three exams within a five-year period. You will also need to meet the AGA's education and experience requirements prior to taking any exam.

The cost for each exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of AGA. For members, each exam costs $250 while non-members pay $350 per exam. There may also be additional fees associated with registering for an exam or re-taking an exam if necessary.

7. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

A Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) is a professional who has been trained and certified to detect, investigate, and prevent fraud. The CFE credential is the most widely recognized anti-fraud certification in the world. It is awarded by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), an international organization dedicated to preventing, detecting, and deterring fraud.

The CFE credential requires candidates to pass a four-hour exam that covers topics such as financial transactions, investigation techniques, legal elements of fraud, fraud prevention and deterrence, and other related topics. Candidates must also have two years of professional experience in the field of fraud examination or a related field.

It typically takes six months or more to prepare for the CFE exam. Candidates should plan on studying at least 8-10 hours per week for several months leading up to their exam date. The ACFE offers a variety of study materials including books, online courses, practice exams, and webinars to help candidates prepare for the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CFE credential varies depending on whether you are an ACFE member or non-member. For non-members, it costs $400 USD plus applicable taxes to register for the exam; members pay $250 USD plus applicable taxes. In addition to these fees, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials or enrolling in preparation courses offered by third parties.

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

Accredited Business Accountants/Advisors (ABA/ABV) are professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in accounting, taxation, financial management and business advisory services. They have the knowledge and experience to help businesses of all sizes with their financial decisions.

It typically takes two to three years to become an ABA/ABV. To qualify, applicants must pass a series of exams administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). The exams cover topics such as auditing, taxation, financial reporting and business law.

To become an ABA/ABV, applicants must also complete at least 150 hours of continuing education every three years. This includes courses related to accounting, finance and business management topics. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate professional experience in the field through references or other verifiable evidence.

The cost for becoming an ABA/ABV varies depending on the number of exams taken and the type of continuing education courses completed. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000 to become an ABA/ABV depending on the individual's circumstances.

9. Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP)

Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP) is a certification offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and experience in government auditing. The CGAP credential is designed to help internal audit professionals advance their careers and demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence.

The CGAP exam consists of two parts: the Knowledge Exam and the Performance Exam. The Knowledge Exam tests your understanding of government auditing principles, practices, and standards. The Performance Exam assesses your ability to apply these principles in real-world situations.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CGAP exam. To get started, you should take an IIA-approved review course or self-study program that covers all of the topics on the exam. You should also read relevant publications from the IIA and other sources to gain a better understanding of government auditing principles and practices. Additionally, you should practice answering sample questions from past exams to become familiar with the types of questions you will see on the actual exam.

The cost for taking the CGAP exam varies depending on where you take it and which version you choose (online or paper). Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$600 USD for members of IIA and $550-$750 USD for non-members.

10. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a professional certification offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is designed to certify individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in information systems auditing, control, and security. CISA certification is recognized globally as the standard of excellence for professionals working in the field of information systems audit, assurance, security, and governance.

To become certified as a CISA, individuals must pass an exam administered by ISACA. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering five domains: The Process of Auditing Information Systems; Governance and Management of IT; Information Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation; Information Systems Operations, Maintenance and Support; Protection of Information Assets.

The exam typically takes four hours to complete. Candidates must also have at least five years of cumulative work experience in one or more areas covered by the CISA exam domains.

The cost to take the CISA exam is $575 for members of ISACA or $760 for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual maintenance fee that must be paid each year to maintain active status as a CISA professional. This fee is currently set at $45 for members or $85 for non-members.

11. Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA Canada).

Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA Canada) is a professional designation for accountants in Canada. It is the highest level of certification for accounting professionals in the country, and it is recognized internationally.

To become a CPA in Canada, you must complete an accredited program of study and pass the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP) and Common Final Examination (CFE). The CPA PEP consists of four modules: Financial Reporting, Strategy and Governance, Management Accounting, and Audit & Assurance. After completing these modules, you must pass the CFE to become a Chartered Professional Accountant.

The amount of time it takes to become a CPA depends on your individual circumstances, but it typically takes between three to five years. This includes completing the educational requirements as well as gaining relevant work experience through an articling program or other approved experience.

To get started on your journey to becoming a CPA in Canada, you will need to ensure that you meet all of the admission requirements set out by CPA Canada. These include having completed at least 90 credit hours from an accredited university or college program; having successfully completed the CPA preparatory courses; having obtained at least 24 months of acceptable practical experience; and passing the Common Final Examination (CFE).

The cost of becoming a CPA in Canada varies depending on which province or territory you are located in. Generally speaking, tuition fees for the entire process can range from $5,000 - $15,000 CAD depending on where you live and how many courses you need to take. In addition to tuition fees, there are also registration fees associated with applying for membership with one of the provincial accounting bodies as well as additional fees associated with taking exams such as the CFE.

Do You Really Need a General Ledger Accountant Certificate?

Yes, a general ledger accountant certificate is an important credential to have in the accounting field. A general ledger accountant is responsible for maintaining financial records and preparing financial statements. This requires knowledge of accounting principles, as well as a thorough understanding of the company’s financial system. The certificate provides proof that you have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in this role.

Having a general ledger accountant certificate is also beneficial when it comes to job opportunities. Employers appreciate applicants who can demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the profession by obtaining a certificate from an accredited institution. This shows potential employers that you are serious about your career and are willing to go the extra mile to stay current on industry trends and best practices. It also serves as proof of your mastery of the subject matter, which can give you an edge over other candidates during job interviews.

Finally, having a general ledger accountant certification may give you access to higher-level positions or increased pay rates since many employers prefer certified professionals who can handle more complex responsibilities. Additionally, some organizations may even offer special bonuses or incentives if they see that you possess this certification. Therefore, obtaining a general ledger accountant certificate is certainly worth considering if you want to advance your career in accounting.

Related: General Ledger Accountant Resume Examples

FAQs About General Ledger Accountant Certifications

1. What is a General Ledger Accountant Certification?

Answer: A General Ledger Accountant Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of general ledger accounting, including topics such as financial statement preparation, budgeting, and forecasting.

2. What are the benefits of obtaining a General Ledger Accountant Certification?

Answer: Benefits of obtaining a General Ledger Accountant Certification include improving job prospects and earning potential, being able to demonstrate proficiency in the field of accounting, and staying up-to-date on industry standards and best practices.

3. Who should pursue a General Ledger Accountant Certification?

Answer: Any individual who wishes to demonstrate their competency in general ledger accounting, such as experienced accountants or those wishing to enter the field for the first time, should consider pursuing a General Ledger Accountant Certification.

4. How long does it take to obtain a General Ledger Accountant Certification?

Answer: The amount of time required to obtain a General Ledger Accountant Certification can vary depending on the individual's level of experience and education; however, most certifications can be completed within one year.

5. What is the cost associated with obtaining a General Ledger Accountant Certification?

Answer: The cost associated with obtaining a General Ledger Accountant Certification will vary depending on the institution offering the certification; however, most institutions offer competitive rates that range from $500-$2,000 USD per exam or coursework module.