The bookkeeping and taxation field offers so many rewards. Job security, the ability to work directly with clients, and the benefits of continuing education are all positive aspects of this growing field. Even students and stay at home mothers can generate a great income with part-time bokkeeping or tax preparation.


Bookkeeping is an easy business to start at home. Working just 20 hours a week can generate a nice income, and many professional bookkeepers establish a few good clients and live exclusively off their part-time income. Some bookkeepers even provide tax services to their clients in addition to regular monthly bookkeeping, because tax preparation is so much easier when you have a client’s books in order.

The choice to become an enrolled agent, CPA or tax attorney is a personal one, but tax professionals that choose one of these professional designations have so much more flexibility in the direction of their practice. Audit Defense and IRS Debt Negotiation are two very lucrative practice niches that can offer real revenue during the off season. There are even some tax practices that cater exclusively to this market. There are numerous resources on the internet, and a few good books out there for bookkeepers just starting out in the business.

For someone who has little experience, a good place to start would be a local college course. Community colleges offer introductory bookkeeping courses that are informative and cheap. Most of the time, you can take the courses online, and many community colleges offer certificate programs that you can finish in a year.

You can consider becoming a Certified Bookkeeper through the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (The AIPB). There is no degree requirement, but you must pass a four-part exam. Certification ensures that the bookkeeper has proven skills and knowledge in the field of bookkeeping. The exam even includes a section on fraud prevention. For certification, exam candidates must have at least two years of bookkeeping experience, pass the exam, and agree to adhere to a code of ethics. Bookkeepers that pass this certification program enjoy greater respect and higher pay. The Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook, recommends certification for bookkeepers.

Current accounting students and tax professionals should all seriously consider the CPA or EA designation (or both!). The Enrolled Agent designation does not have a degree requirement, but requires the candidate to pass a three-part examination and a background check. There are numerous books that can help you become a freelance bookkeeper, including, "How to Start a Successful Home-Based Freelance Bookkeeping and Tax Preparation Business." The flexibility and professional rewards of these certifications are worth the effort!
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