Different Kinds of Accountants

Financial Accountants usually work for a corporation. A primary function is to produce accurate financial information so good business decisions can be made. Financial accountants also produce financial statements for those outside corporate management, such as the stockholders, bankers and many, many others.

Tax Accountants can work for a corporation, a CPA firm, or for government. Their responsibilities include making sure taxes are calculated correctly and tax returns are filed timely. They also are responsible for tax planning to reduce the total tax burden.

Governmental Accountants can work for the U.S. government or for city, county or state governmental bodies. Their job is to produce accurate financial information for governmental decisions and activities.

Independent Auditors work for a CPA firm and are responsible for verifying that the financial statements produced by financial accountants are fairly presented.

Internal Auditors can work for any organization and primarily are responsible for helping make sure the organization runs efficiently and effectively.

Information Systems Auditors are specialists and may be independent auditors or internal auditors. Their job is to ensure that computer systems are designed properly and that the computer systems produce accurate and useful financial information.

Fraud Auditors are experts in the prevention, detection, and investigation of fraud and theft. They combine knowledge of complex financial transactions with an understanding of investigation, law, and how to resolve allegations of fraud.

Accounting Information Systems specialists may design computerized accounting systems, or manage those systems. They may work for a corporation, a CPA firm, or a government agency.