[Tncincy]

Ninja’s,

I need your help. I am 47 years old, married 22 years, raised 4 children, 3 of 4 is in college I have run my own bookkeeping and tax business for 16 years. The IRS has made changes requiring paid tax preparers to take an exam and register. After contemplating allowing the IRS registration to be enough, I decided that I did not want to become an EA (enrolled agent) since I have completed the 150 credit hour requirement for my state and received my Masters in Accounting. My state does not recognize the accounting profession unless you are a CPA, therefore I am only recognized as a bookkeeper and limited in business activity without the cpa. I would like advice on how to gain new business as a CPA or Is working with another firm a good idea. I really like working for myself but I am prepared to work with another firm if I must. To make matters more interesting I am in a rural area and yes, I could work in a more populated area if necessary. I love accounting, always wanted to be a cpa, but what can I do at 47. What is the best approach?

It begins with a 75
Been here too long as a cheerleader....ready to pass

[Givemesleep]

Why not just study hard and get the cpa. Stop holding youself back. Its doable, hurts but doable.

Reg 11/15/2011 - 80
Aud 02/28/2012 - 81
Bec 05/31/2012 - 78
Far 08/31/2012 - 83 Do you believe in Miracles, YES !!!

CPA License received 10/2012 !!
CFE License received 04/2013 !!
EA License received

Givemesleep

[jelly]

If you decide to take the exam, look to see if your state requires work experience hours signed by a CPA, which may impact your decision to work with a firm.

Couldn't pass again!

[mla1169]

I agree with Jelly's point to fulfilling the experience requirement in your state, you may need a licensed CPA to sign off on a years worth of your work. Other than that, if you prefer to stay self employed, and you've had clients all along, growing your business shouldn't be difficult.

FAR- 77
AUD -49, 71, 84
REG -56,75!
BEC -75

Massachusetts CPA (non reporting) since 3/12.

[Tncincy]

My years of tax experience will meet the general qualifications in my state, but you are right I will need to work with a cpa to gain the auditing experience.

How would I find a CPA in my area (who is not intimidated) to allow me to work with them or intern with them for the auditing experience? Not looking forward to a long drawn out process.

I'm open…..keep it coming.

It begins with a 75
Been here too long as a cheerleader....ready to pass

[Author]

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