What's the difference between a CPA, Bookkeeper, and a CFO? Accounting Services Explained

There’s a lot of confusion in the business world about accounting services and what accountants ACTUALLY do. So this video is all about helping break down what a bookkeeper vs EA vs CPA vs CFO actually does, so that you can be more confident about WHO you need in your organization to help you succeed financially.

We cover Bookkeepers, Full Charge Bookkeepers, tax preparers, Enrolled Agents (EAs), CPAs, and CFOs in this video. What are they....and who do YOU need?

Note: I am hard on my industry sometimes.....but I love you all! ❤️❤️❤️
Number nerds have to stick together...but sometimes we need to be teased 😜

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Disclaimer: This video is intended for educational purposes and
should not be taken as legal or tax advice. You should consult with your financial professionals about your unique financial situation before acting on anything discussed in these videos. Clara CFO Group, LLC is providing educational content to help small business owners become more aware of certain issues and topics, but we cannot give blanket advice to a broad audience.

[cmemffz]

great overview - finding the right mix of competencies and cost to a growing business is the key - is what I would take away. Thank You!

[TheSharareh]

Hi Clara, thanks for the great info. By the way, EAs have to study and pass 3 rigorous exams, all regarding TAXATION (for Individuals, Businesses, and Representation in front of the IRS). The material is the same material that CPAs have to study for their exam for “Tax purposes”. EAs can represent anyone from ANY state in front of the IRS. Of course, the CPA exam covers 3 other non-tax related sections as well, which are audit, financials, and business. (CPA is a state-specific credential while EA is a federal one).

Also, I think what you explained as CFO's job description is what an ACCOUNTANT does as well. The very first difference between an accountant and a bookkeeper is the level of education. Accountants usually have at least a bachelor's degree specifically in “Accounting” and most of the time a master’s degree in accounting. They review and analyze the data that the bookkeeper has already organized and reconciled. They offer services such as financial statement analysis, budgeting, KPI, forecasting, benchmarking, budget variance analysis, etc.

P.S.: I really enjoy your videos!

[wencircs]

Thank you for the video. I was able to re-evaluate my position. You do such a great work of simplifying things so everyone can understand.

[stoneyja]

Very well explained, sweet and to the point

[vonnettagraves-brooks]

Hi Clara, thank you for sharing clear, detailed information. It has been very helpful. ♥️

[joelnelson]

So good Hannah! Great breakdown on these positions. And yes please.... content around e-commerce (Shopify) sales tax would be amazing! Keep it up!

[gabrieldiaz]

One of the best explanations of our industry, that I’ve heard.

[simonegordon]

Fabulous review of financial positions. Thank you very much

[dcat]

This is a very helpful video.. You make some crucial and important points on the distinctions and what is needed.

[elianasmith]

Another invaluable channel will explore more videos from you, sir. This will help me plan my insurance, thank you!

[brianmcclemens]

Your the Best ! Thanks again for helping me with getting my PPP 1 back in 2020 . Blessed !

[LRob]

This was super helpful and from what I could tell pretty spot on. Thanks for the valuable info!

[jessysixx]

I'm so glad I found you. I currently want to start bookkeeping as a business. I have a business degree and I work as an AP SUPERVISOR. What would you suggest classes or certification I take to make sure I know exactly what I am doing as a bookkeeper.

[simplyroshie]

Thank you Hanna. I'm watching from Philippines,

[danhernandez]

This was a very informative video. Thank you for the information.

[samuelhyongsokkim]

I LOVE YOU HANNAH! -FROM YOUR SECRET ADMIRER LOL =)

[darrenc.]

Great video! Very helpful. Where would a Controller fit in these categories?

[TerryCollinsPLifestyle]

Do you have any videos specific to real estate and property management?

[TerryCollinsPLifestyle]

That’s so true. Unless I ask specifically, it doesn’t get applied.

[roxannavillicana]

Great video!! What would you recommend for a small non profit ?