Related Keywords: Accounting, Bookkeeping, Accounting services, Accounting business services, Bookkeeping service, Bookkeeping services
In the US, accountants include Certified Public Accountants or CPAs, Certified Management Accountants or CMAs, Certified Internal Auditors or CIAs, and Accredited Business Accountants or ABAs. The main difference between these certifications the types of services provided, although people can earn more than 1 certification.A CPA is a licensed (by their state) accoutant authorized to provide auditing services to the general public, although most firms also offer accounting, litigation support, tax, and other financial services. Requirements for receiving a 'CPA license' (link: CPA license)***(created duplicate page from CPA certification)**** vary from state to state, although passing the Uniform Certified Public Accountant examination is a requirement of all states. This examination is created and measured by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
A CIA, or a Certified Internal Auditor, is granted a certificate from the Institute of Internal Auditors, provided that the candidate passes a rigorous examination consisting of 4 parts. A CIA typically provides his/her services directly to their employer instead of to the public.
A CMA, or a Certified Management Accountant, is granted a certificate from the Institute of Management Accountants, provided that the candidate passes a rigorous examination of 4 parts and meet the practical experience requirement from the IMA. A CMA mostly provides his/her services directly to his/her employers rather than the public. A CMA also provides his or her services to the public, but to lesser extent than that of a CPA.
Obviously, accountants provide a wide variety of services, depending on the needs of the client. One of the major services provided is that of 'Bookkeeping' (link:Bookkeeping), or researching all financial interactions for any person or organization and presenting their financial status in a clear and concise way.