Some Accountants develop their own software to meet unique data needs. There is evidence that some Accountants and accounting students are leaving the field for better paying jobs in computer programming. Hours Work hours vary. Most Accountants work 40 hours per week, but overtime is required during tax season, which lasts approximately from January through mid-April. Benefit s Benefits normally include paid vacations, sick leave, group health insurance, and retirement plans.
Some companies offer profit-sharing plans.
CPA firms often pay for CPA exams, continuing education courses, and professional society membership dues. Education and Training Accountants and Auditors almost always need a bachelor s degree with a major in accounting. For tax management accounting, an MA degree is desirable. A college grade point average of 3.0 or higher is generally expected for job entry into accounting firms. California and all other states use the same Uniform CPA examination prepared by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.