Accounting & Bookkeeping & Small Business Forum

[LindaD]

I am taking early retirement from my job this month and have been trying to decide if finishing my accounting degree ( which will take approx 1 1/2 yrs) would be worth the time and money. I have worked 30 years in the finance department of a manufacturing facility, the last 20+ years as a financial analyst. Although I still like accounting and my job pays well, I am absolutely and totally burned out working in financial planning and analysis for a large corporation. I would like to return to work at some point in a local CPA office doing bookkeeping, tax returns, etc but thought that I would need a degree to have any chance at employment again, especially at my age (55). I stumbled across the UAC website and have been researching their programs. The idea of owning my own bookkeeping business is very attractive but I've never been in business before.

I would be interested in comments from anyone that had a similar situation.

Linda

[QBConsultant]

I previously worked in public accounting and the corporate world before I started my own business. I love having my own business & working with small businesses. If you understand the basics of accounting, there is no reason you couldn't work with small businesses. It will be a breeze compared to corporate financial planning, etc.

[mhenery]

Linda,

I have an Accounting Degree, I am a CPA and hold a Masters. To be effective as a bookkeeper and/or tax preparer won't require an advanced degree. You should be able to work for a CPA with your background and experience. However, owning your own business isn't a bad idea either. The Courses that UAC offers are very good and will give you all the basics you need to work with small businesses (plus it is much cheaper). Good Luck!

[LindaD]

Thanks so much for the replies. They have been very helpful and provided much needed food for thought.