Working remotely as a CPA is not for everyone, but it’s definitely an option you should consider. In the age of smartphones and laptops, working from home can be very appealing and convenient. However, there are also some downsides to working from home as well.
Keep reading because if you’re thinking about becoming a remote accountant then this post will help guide your decision with the top benefits of working remotely as a CPA. Learn what makes us happier at work than ever before!
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What is Remote Working?
Remote working, or telecommuting, is a work arrangement in which employees work from home or another remote location, rather than commuting to a central workplace.
There are many benefits of working remotely as a CPA. Click here to learn more about the advantages of working from home as a CPA. Here are 14 of the most notable benefits:
1. Work From Anywhere
Working remotely means you can work from anywhere there is an Internet connection. For example, if you live in Los Angeles but would like to take advantage of the beautiful weather and beaches year-round, then working remotely gives you that option. You could also utilize your love of travel, or explore job opportunities around the world.
When you work remotely, you have more control over your own time. You can choose when and where to work, and even how you work. This flexibility gives you the opportunity to accomplish more in a day without feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
2. Minimize Transportation Expenses
To help save money for your CPA firm, try minimizing transportation expenses by working remotely instead of driving into your office every day (or taking public transportation). Not only will this cut down on gas costs or bus fare, but it’ll also give you more time with family/friends during the week.
3. Stay Connected With Others
Work remotely, and you can continue to be part of the human race by staying connected with others. If your spouse has an important work event in town, make sure to attend together. Or, meet up with friends after work at a local bar for happy hour.
4. Enjoy Flexible Hours
Working remotely gives you the flexibility to start or end your day whenever it’s convenient for you. You can even take naps during the day if needed! This is extremely beneficial for those with young children who need to be taken care of during the day.
5. Improve Your Health & Well-Being
Whether it’s working out at noon or tucking into bed early, working remotely gives you more control over your schedule which enables better health and well-being. You’ll also have more time for fun activities that are good for your mind/body, such as hiking, biking, or swimming.
6. Take a Break When Necessary
Since you’re in charge of your schedule when working remotely, it’s easy to take a break when needed. Whether you want to watch an episode of your favorite show or run an errand, taking a quick break can help refresh your mind and increase your productivity later on.
7. Efficient Multitasking
When working remotely, you can often complete multiple tasks at once more efficiently than if you were in an office setting. For example, checking email while talking on the phone is much less disruptive than trying to have a conversation with someone who is typing away on a computer screen next to you.
8. No Need for Office Politics
Since you’re not physically in the office, you won’t have to deal with office politics. This includes gossip, backstabbing, and other drama that can often occur in a traditional work environment.
9. More Control Over Your Work/Life Balance
Working remotely gives you more control over your work/life balance. For example, if you want to take your kids to their doctor’s appointments during the day instead of after work, then working remotely makes that possible without penalty.
10. Reduce Wear & Tear on Clothes & Shoes
If you typically wear dress clothes or uncomfortable shoes to work, then working remotely can help reduce the amount of wear and tear on your clothes and shoes. You could also save money on dry cleaning or shoe repair bills.
And, since you may not need to purchase clothes or shoes as often when working remotely, you could save money by purchasing them at a later date instead of doing so immediately.
11. No need for Business Lunches
One of the expenses that can quickly add up is business lunches. When working remotely, you can easily save money by eating lunch at home or bringing your lunch with you to work.
12. Create a Customized Workspace
When working remotely, you get to create a customized workspace that fits your needs. This could be anything from having a standing desk to using multiple monitors.
13. More Productive Hours in the Day
When working remotely, you can often get more done in less time compared to when you’re in an office environment. You may also have fewer distractions since you don’t need to stare at someone else’s computer screen while they’re working.
Working remotely with fewer distractions may allow you to get even more done in one hour than if you were working in an office setting. Use that extra hour productively by knocking out a few items on your to-do list or catching up on reading for work.
14. Peaceful Working Environments
Last but certainly not least, working remotely gives you the opportunity to create a peaceful working environment that’s free of distractions. All of these benefits combined provide many reasons why more accountants are choosing to work remotely/telecommute so they can enjoy all of these benefits themselves!
Is It Difficult to Communicate with a Remote Accounting Team?
Working remotely definitely has its benefits, but there are a few potential challenges that can occur when accounting teams are spread out across different locations. One of the most common issues is difficulty with communication. This can be due to things like time zone differences, language barriers, or simply not being able to see someone’s facial expressions or body language.
Fortunately, there are a number of tools and strategies that can help overcome these communication hurdles. For example, using video conferencing software like Skype or Zoom can help team members see each other’s faces and avoid miscommunication.
Additionally, setting aside specific times for team check-ins can help ensure everyone is up-to-date on project progress and any issues that may have arisen.
Can Fraud be Reduced with Outsourced Accounting?
With the IRS getting more aggressive in their audit tactics, it can feel like everyone is a target for an audit these days. However, if your firm hires a top-notch outsourced accounting team or virtual CFO, they can help reduce the risk of you receiving an IRS notice by carefully monitoring your financials and identifying problems early on.
Will I be Paid Differently When Working Remotely?
Working remotely does change how you are paid because you won’t need to receive physical checks or account for business expenses like mileage. Instead, accounting teams pay remote workers either through direct deposit (set up through your bank) or with prepaid debit cards.
These can then be used at ATMs where you would usually withdraw money from. While this takes some getting used to for first-time remote workers, it can ultimately mean significant savings in the long run.
Can I Still Advance as an Accountant if I Work Remotely?
Working remotely doesn’t have to prevent you from advancing your accounting career. In fact, many accountants who work remotely actually report higher job satisfaction and greater overall work/life balance compared to those who work in office environments.
So even though there are a few potential challenges involved with working remotely, the benefits usually far outweigh these issues – especially if you want more control over your daily schedule and life outside of work!
How to Find Freelancing Jobs?
There are a number of ways to find freelance CPA work, but one of the best ways is to use online job boards. Sites like UpWork and CareerBuilder have a huge database of remote work opportunities for professional accountants.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Remote Accounting Job?
The amount of time it takes to get a remote accounting position varies on the specific job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a more entry-level bookkeeping or administrative assistant position, you may need only a couple of months of experience.
However, if you are applying for an online accounting internship or a more senior-level remote position, you will likely need years of experience under your belt.
Is It Easier to Get a Remote Job as a CPA?
In many cases, it is definitely easier to get a remote job as a CPA. That’s because the professional certification often comes with higher-level skills related to working remotely, such as improved communication and time management.
Want More Help Working Remotely?
There are many benefits of working remotely as a CPA. Some of these include improved work/life balance, no need for office politics, and more control over your schedule. Additionally, remote workers can often be more productive than those who work in a traditional office setting.
Using the time you would have spent commuting wisely can help you get even more done while working from home. So, if you’re looking for a rewarding and flexible career, consider becoming a CPA today!
