As a staff accountant at a public accounting firm, I was asked to write about my typical day at work. Unfortunately, or fortunately, no day is quite “typical.” I am writing this blog outside of "busy season” and life outside of tax season is a lot less stressful. While each day brings challenges and excitement, these days are more predictable than they are between January and April.
My day usually starts right at 8:00 am. I start by logging into my computer, and pulling up my email. I read the Corridor Business Journal’s update email which fills me in on what is happening locally in the corridor (did you read about Bergan Paulsen’s recent merger?). I also check the CPA Letter Daily which keeps me current on what is happening in the CPA profession, the business world, and the economy (lots of tax changes around the corner!).
Upon checking my emails, I turn to my work pile which I refer to as my 'tab'. My omniscient boss keeps my tab full and prioritized. I usually give him a sigh or three when he puts work on my tab, but the truth is I don't mind staying busy. The day goes by faster when I’m busy. Well, as long as there aren't any TPS Reports to do.
My typical work outside of tax season includes, but is not limited to: payrolls, compilations, payroll tax returns, business and individual tax returns, and audits. I currently have three bi-weekly or bi-monthly payrolls of various sizes. Each one has different complexities and issues to work through. In addition, I have three monthly compilations that offer the same variety. And, each quarter I work on payroll tax returns. This quarterly work adds some welcome tasks that are easier to work through than the monthly work.
Between the reoccurring work, there are always tax returns to get done – as extension deadlines approach – in order to accommodate our clients’ needs. Finally, I help out the Agriculture team with audits throughout the summer and early fall. I go on about one audit per month and they typically last three to four days in length.
Before leaving for day (usually around 5:00), I record my time spent on each project in our time tracking system. I then answer any last minute emails, and wave at my coworkers as I head out the door!
For more information on our other offices, check out these links:
- Virtual Tour of our Waterloo Office
- Virtual Tour of our Cedar Rapids Office
- A Day in the Life - Client Accounting Services in our Cedar Falls Office
Steven is a staff accountant who focuses primarily on tax preparation and planning. He is passionate about building client relationships and learning about how to best improve business operations. Read more about Steven on our website.
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