Definition: A CPA is a professional accountant licensed by the state. To become a certified public accountant, a person must hve at least 150-hours of college education in various business and accounting subjects, plus pass a 14-hour CPA examination covering the topics of auditing, accounting, business management, and business laws & regulations (including tax). Because of their broad background, CPAs are best-suited for corporate accounting, tax audits, and business consulting.
Certified Public Accountant
By William Perez, About.com
Explore Tax Planning: U.S.
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