How to Research Salary Ranges and Benefits for an Accountant

Most accountants earn between $30,000 and $100,000 annually. Where you fall on that pay scale depends on credentials, experience, geographic location and size of firm. Partners and owners of accounting firms can earn significantly more.

Things You'll Need

• Internet Access
• Computers

Instructions

1. Access professional accounting Web sites for current information about the different specialties in this field. Note that there are also many subfields that fall under the category of accounting.

2. Read accounting journals and other industry publications on a regular basis.

3. Realize that competition is most fierce at major accounting and business firms, where the salaries and benefits tend to be the most attractive.

4. Interview your family's accountant, or someone you know in the profession, for insight into the pros and cons of the field.

5. Take into consideration that self-employed accountants need to deduct overhead expenses and insurance premiums from their earnings.

Tips & Warnings

• Become proficient with a variety of accounting software programs.