[Jobless2CPA]

Will passing the CPA exams help me in the long run or short run if I am planning to work for the government? (IRS or other governmental departments such as the Tax Franchise Board)

[MrFish]

I work for a local government in none audit or tax area. As far as I know for accounting or related jobs in my local government, CPA is not required. However, I think it is a great idea to get it because

1.) You never know if you are going to stay in government forever (the next xx years until you have a hard time running). What you think you want may not be what you like FOREVER.

2.) Getting any job requires an interview. Interview panels are just human. They will probably be impressed like the rest of the people by someone with more licenses and education.

[Jobless2CPA]

Thank you for your reply Mrfish. Ideally, I would love to work for one of the Big4s, but that goal seems a bit far-fetched at this point due to my lack of relevant experience. So, I am now considering other possibilities once I passed the exams.

I would be appreciative if you could tell me more about governmental positions. Do you think I can fulfill the experience requirement working for the government?

Thanks again!

[MrFish]

From what I understand for state of CA, general accounting experience from a government position is okay. As always, you should check with your state of accountancy.

[Noct]

@ Jobless2CPA

If you want to work for the big 4, go for it… if you're willing to accept an entry position. They seem to prefer inexperienced new hires so they don't need to “untrain” old habbits.

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Material: Wiley books

[Jobless2CPA]

Thank you.

[Anonymous]

CPA is definitely more of a long term thing in the government. Typically you aren't required to have one until at least the management level (if you are auditing). Also, the CPA isn't going to really help you in the short term (faster promotions, more responsibility, etc isn't going to happen in the government just because you have a CPA).

[Jobless2CPA]

thank you bmsheppard87

[zonast]

When I was auditing for the state Dept of Rev, all the CPA (and those studying for it) were made fun of and labeled as overachievers (i know…sounds mature huh?).

Funny how those were the ones that always left for better jobs…

[Jobless2CPA]

thanks zonast

[unDeR]

I work at the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. Having recently obtained my CPA license, the only benefit has been a bonus. Other than that, there is really no immediate or long-term benefit. It simply isn't required in any capacity. You can still excel in your position and be promoted/recognized, and being a CPA can't hurt, but it's not valued like it is elsewhere.

Texas-licensed CPA

[Anonymous]

@umDeR

I work the the TX Comptroller's office too, in an out of state office. I started about 4 years ago. Which field office are you in? I'm glad that they finally took the “bonus” freeze out so once I pass I can say hello to the $2k….

Back on topic, the CPA is generally not needed in government….But it's always good to have for exit opportunities….One thing to note, for the IRS, if you want to be an external hire for a high salary job (LB&I department), you need at least either a Masters or CPA…..

[Jobless2CPA]

Thank you for your replies.

Right now, I am just hoping that I could get an entry-level job either at a private firm (ideally one of the Big 4) or the government. Basically, anything goes at this point. I am also considering getting the EA license after the CPA.

I do not have many friends with whom I could consult with. Everything I know is based on my research online and the knowledge that I acquired from this forum. One thing that I know for sure I will get done is acquiring a MST degree. I will be applying for this upcoming fall-term at USC. A degree will open doors for me. (hopefully…)

[Anonymous]

@Jobless you are definitely going in the right direction. Having your CPA can never hurt you, even if you dont use it at work. At the very least you could find someone who does taxes on the side and have them take you under their wing. A coworker of mine does that every year and makes a solid amount of supplemental income (he uses the money earned for all of his family vacations for the year).

[Jobless2CPA]

Sounds like the kind of lifestyle that I want : ) Thanks bmsheppard87

[whopper]

I worked for the government for several years and it really depends on the branch of govt you work for. At my job, it was not necessary for promotion. And, it only became a CFO requirement 3 years ago. Needless to say, CPA certification did not hold much weight at my company. However, I agree with the other posts that a CPA would prepare you for the long run especially if you decide you want to make a career move.

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[Author]

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