Bookkeepers will always be in demand as long as businesses need to keep track of their spending, budget, and financial discrepancies. Readers of the page who are aspiring bookkeepers in the state of Florida will be glad to know that everything they have to keep in mind when starting their journey has been discussed comprehensively below.
The guide encompasses the basic educational requirements, training alternatives, top institutions, licensing and certification requirements, and career opportunities for bookkeepers in Florida.
We also explore the salary brackets and ranges that professionals in the field can fall into and the factors that influence these yearly returns.
How to Become a Bookkeeper in Florida
Bookkeepers in Florida typically start their careers following the outline below.
Foundational Skills
Like any profession, several workplace skills may give bookkeepers a significant edge. These include clear communication skills, organization, adaptability, teamwork and collaboration, time management, and problem-solving skills.
Education
Most professionals attend an academic training program to prepare for a bookkeeping career. Of course, this step is technically not compulsory by law.
However, acquiring a formal undergraduate degree can boost hiring potential while also helping candidates attain a high level of proficiency in niche areas that make them even more appealing.
A prospective bookkeeper can attend a community college with the aim of graduating with a certificate or an associate’s degree. Candidates may also participate in programs in finance, accounting, business, or related fields.
Real-World Experience
Obtaining significant real-world experience before entering into a full-time role can help candidates acquire workplace skills and build a good resume. They may do so by considering an internship or working briefly in a training position.
Some employers are also willing to offer on-the-job training to individuals with little or no experience. Some of these training opportunities can lead to full-time job placement.
Job Placement
Candidates typically consider certification before securing a job replacement. Below, we analyze the most prominent certification organizations and credentials for individuals to pursue.
It is also worth mentioning that bookkeepers can work in several capacities, including freelancing and industry-specific roles.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Bookkeepers in Florida may pursue certification in order to stand out and maintain a higher level of appeal to clients and customers. Certification is beneficial for professionals in this field, regardless of whether they work under an organization or as freelancers.
To become certified, candidates must commit to a code of ethics and pass a professional examination. The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers offers the Certified Bookkeeper credential, which is recognized nationwide.
Another common credential to pursue is the Certified Bookkeeper credential offered by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers.
Top Bookkeeping Schools in Florida
The following are the top training destinations for future bookkeepers in Florida.
University of Central Florida
Online, FL Online Only
University of Central Florida offers a well-rounded online bookkeeping program that prepares students for certification and practical success in the field.
Tuition
$2,195 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Florida Gulf Coast University
Online, FL Online Only
Florida Gulf Coast University provides a high-quality online bookkeeping program that is ideal for individuals seeking a flexible, self-paced learning experience.
Tuition
$2,195 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
University of West Florida
Online, FL Online Only
At the University of West Florida, students are trained in both core bookkeeping principles and the technical tools required for day-to-day operations in the field. This includes proficiency in popular software like QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel.
Tuition
$2,195 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
ContinuingEd@uwf.edu
Explore bookkeeping Schools in Florida by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
A bookkeeper in Florida can earn an annual average salary of $33,577 — $58,654, depending on factors like experience, professional credentials, and where they practice in the state. Those who earn the annual average salary of $33,577 are among the bottom 10%, while only the top 10% can earn as high as $58,654 or more.
In the middle category, bookkeepers in Florida earn an average annual salary of $44,378. Naturally, this is where most professionals find themselves.
Sorting only by location, we have the top destinations to practice as a bookkeeper in Florida (by salary alone) to be Miami, with an annual average salary of $53,695; Lake Worth, with an annual average salary of $47,377; Fort Lauderdale, with an annual average salary of $47,020; and Orlando, with an annual average salary of $46,832.