A popular misconception is that all CPAs do taxes. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth.
Tax is a highly specialized area requiring a lot of knowledge and research skills.
Typically, tax advisors start out in public accounting firms, and they very often go out on their own after a number of years. Many tax advisors earn their law degree and specialize in tax law, an area of high demand given the growth of global companies. The Personal Finance Advisor Many CPAs choose to leave the auditing field and venture into personal financial planning. A career in planning requires tax, accounting, financial, and overall general business knowledge. As a financial advisor, a CPA would work with clients to develop and implement financial strategies related to estate planning, retirement, financing education, and developing financial portfolios.