What Is Required to Have a Bookkeeping/Accounting Business in California?
Accounting and bookkeeping businesses in the state of California may provide number-crunching services to businesses; however, both types of businesses feature different requirements. Additional training and work experience, such as audit training, can enhance the marketability and professionalism of an accountant or bookkeeper.
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Business License/Permit
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California requires accounting/bookkeeping businesses to obtain proper licenses within the city the business operates in. Requirements for this license may vary from city-to-city, thus review the requirements by contacting the city business license or permit office. Accounting/bookkeeping businesses must zoning permits for their establishment, and accounting firms must hold an accounting corporation licensed from the California Board of Accountancy. The California Governor's Office of Economic Development features a database of business license requirements by county and city.
Establish Business Entity
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Establishing a business entity with the California Secretary of State is required to operate an accounting or bookkeeping business. The California Secretary of State Website features a list of all forms and requirements to establish a corporation, Limited Liability Company, limited partnership, general partnership or a limited liability partnership.
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Accountant License
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To open an accounting business in California, applicants must have a valid California accounting license given by the California Board of Accountancy. Accounting licenses require a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, as well as passing the state accounting license examination. Bookkeeping professional do not need to be licensed by the state, but they cannot advertise as "public accountants."
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References
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