CPA vs. Accountant: What’s the Difference and Which Does My Business Need?
When you're managing a business, having the right financial support is critical. But when it comes to choosing between a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and an accountant, many business owners aren’t sure which is the better fit—or what the difference even is.
While both roles deal with financial information, there are important distinctions in education, certification, scope of services, and how they can support your business long-term.
What Is an Accountant?
An accountant is a professional who handles financial records, ensures accurate bookkeeping, prepares financial statements, and may offer general financial advice. The term is broad and can include anyone with a background in finance, accounting, or bookkeeping—even if they don't hold a professional license.
Common duties of an accountant include:
Recording and categorizing financial transactions
Managing accounts payable and receivable
Preparing balance sheets and income statements
Creating budgets and forecasts
Supporting financial decision-making with reports
Many accountants have a degree in accounting or finance and bring valuable experience—but they are not licensed or regulated by a state board unless they also carry a CPA designation.
What Is a CPA?
A CPA, or Certified Public Accountant, is an accountant who has passed a rigorous state licensing exam and met strict education, ethics, and experience requirements. CPAs must also complete ongoing continuing education to maintain their certification.
Because of this certification, CPAs are legally authorized to perform certain tasks that general accountants cannot.
What CPAs can do that general accountants cannot:
Prepare and sign audited financial statements
Represent clients before the IRS
Provide formal assurance services (e.g., audits and reviews)
Offer complex tax planning and compliance services
In short, all CPAs are accountants, but not all accountants are CPAs.
Which One Does Your Business Need?
The right financial professional depends on your business’s needs. Here’s a helpful breakdown:
Need Accountant CPA
Day-to-day bookkeeping Yes Yes
Financial reporting Yes Yes
Budgeting and forecasting Yes Yes
Business strategy and planning Yes Yes
Filing or preparing complex tax returns Not always qualified Yes
Audited financial statements No Yes
Representing you before tax authorities No Yes
If you're seeking ongoing support, clear financial insights, and help managing the everyday financial side of your business, a skilled accountant or a professional firm like Efficient Enterprise Solutions may be the perfect fit.
If you’re dealing with overly complex tax situations, audits, or financial assurance requirements, working with a CPA might be necessary.
Where Efficient Enterprise Solutions Comes In
At Efficient Enterprise Solutions, we offer expert accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, and HR services tailored to small and mid-sized businesses. While we’re not a CPA firm, we collaborate with clients and their CPAs as needed—ensuring seamless communication and comprehensive support.
By partnering with us, you gain access to:
Reliable financial reporting
Strategic budgeting and cash flow planning
Customized payroll services
Scalable HR and employee management support
Our focus is on helping you improve performance, reduce administrative burden, and make informed business decisions—without the overhead of a full-time in-house team.
Ready to get the accounting support your business needs?
Let’s connect and talk about how Efficient Enterprise Solutions can help you build a stronger financial foundation.