Write a CPA Resume That Leads With the License
A CPA resume example that puts the license, state and firm experience first, with audit and technical accounting keywords and a full writing guide.
Example CPA summary
Licensed CPA with six years across public accounting and industry. Leads fieldwork on nine private company audits a year, drafts technical memos on revenue and lease treatment, and reviews associate workpapers before manager review. Previously closed a four subsidiary consolidation and built the revenue cycle control matrix. Licensed in Illinois and seeking a technical accounting manager role.
Skills to list on a CPA resume
- US GAAP
- Financial statement preparation
- Audit planning and fieldwork
- Revenue recognition (ASC 606)
- Lease accounting (ASC 842)
- Technical accounting research
- Internal controls (SOX)
- Consolidations
- Income tax provision (ASC 740)
- Workpaper review
- CaseWare
- Microsoft Excel
- Client presentation
- Engagement budgeting
What actually gets this resume read
- Put CPA after your name in the header and name the state board that issued your license.
- Add a credentials line with license status, jurisdiction and any reciprocal licenses you hold elsewhere.
- Distinguish public accounting from industry, since firms and corporate teams weigh the same years differently.
- Quantify engagements: client count, client size, industries covered and the role you held on each team.
- Name the technical standards you have applied by their reference, because that is how technical screens work.
- List continuing professional education only when a course matches the posting, not the whole transcript.