No matter the business, entrepreneurs worldwide will always need to track their spending and cash flow to maximize their earnings and efficiency. This is where bookkeepers come in.
Naturally, businesses and organizations around New York need bookkeepers daily. A straightforward entry requirement, competitive salaries, and high-quality training programs encourage individuals to enter the profession.
Below, we analyze everything prospective bookkeepers in New York must consider when starting a career in the discipline. We also examine possible training destinations and the career outlook, among other key considerations.
How to Become a Bookkeeper in New York
The following are the requirements to become a bookkeeper in New York.
Preparatory Considerations
At the very beginning of starting a bookkeeping career, residents of New York must ensure that they have a high school diploma or GED, along with writing and communication skills. Other relevant skills, like organization and teamwork, are also valuable.
Building a Strong Academic Background
Even though it is not technically mandated by law, the majority of employers prefer to work with bookkeepers who have a strong academic background. Thankfully, there are several amazing training programs for aspiring bookkeepers in the state of New York, including very convenient options that offer part-time or virtual training.
Some are also very fast, allowing students to complete their education in a matter of a few months. In an upcoming section, we will look at some of the top choices to consider.
Work Experience
Gaining valuable real-world experience, even before securing full-time employment, can help candidates enter the industry with a strong resume and with a higher level of qualification. Internships are typically the best way to acquire this.
Some employers also allow bookkeepers with no experience to work in an entry-level role to build their real-world confidence before securing a full-time job placement.
Certification & Work Environments
A bookkeeper in New York can consider certification to boost their career chances. Afterwards, they will be able to secure employment and work in their desired capacity.
Typically, professionals in this field work in an industry-specific role, from home, or as freelancers. Below, we explore certification possibilities for bookkeepers in New York.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Even though bookkeepers in New York don’t necessarily have to become certified according to any law, it is still a common practice among professionals looking to gain an edge and improve their credibility. Candidates can leverage their education and practical learning hours to qualify for certification from prominent associations.
Those with at least 2 years of experience or part-time hours can pursue the Certified Bookkeeper credentials offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers or the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers.
Obtaining these credentials involves passing a professional examination and continually upholding ethical standards.
Top Bookkeeping Schools in New York
Below are the top training destinations for aspiring bookkeepers in New York.
Borough of Manhattan Community College
Online, NY Online Only
Borough of Manhattan Community College provides one of the most recognized online bookkeeping training programs in the country.
Tuition
$2,195 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
The City University of New York
Online, NY Online Only
The City University of New York delivers a comprehensive online bookkeeping program aimed at individuals seeking to formalize their knowledge or transition into professional roles.
Tuition
$2,195 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Wagner College
Online, NY Online Only
Wagner College offers a fully online Certified Bookkeeper program through its Department for Lifelong Learning.
Tuition
$1,995 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
lifelong-learning@wagner.edu
Explore bookkeeping Schools in New York by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Naturally, a bookkeeper’s salary in New York will depend greatly on how long they have been on the job. Those with more experience can expect to earn more than candidates who are just starting.
This is one reason why professionals in the field can make an annual average salary of $36,403 if they fall among the bottom 10% and an annual average salary of $70,584 if they ultimately make it to the top 10%. If a bookkeeper in New York is among the median earners, which is where most professionals are, their annual average salary will be around $50,690.
Location can also be very important in determining these figures. Currently, Rockville Centre and New York have bookkeepers who manage the highest annual average salary in New York, with figures of around $68,916 and $60,863, respectively. Brooklyn comes third with an annual average salary of $58,215.