QuickBooks Certifications Explained
Introduction to QuickBooks Certifications
Getting Certified in QuickBooks
For accountants and bookkeepers, QuickBooks is a fundamental tool of the trade. Getting certified is a way to formally demonstrate your expertise. It tells clients and employers that you have a deep understanding of the software and can manage finances efficiently and accurately.
Intuit, the company behind QuickBooks, offers several certifications. Each one targets a different version of the software or a more advanced skill set. Think of them as different levels or specialties, similar to how a general doctor might specialize in a specific area of medicine. Let's look at the main options.
Core Certifications
The two primary certifications focus on the main versions of the software: QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop.
QuickBooks Online Certification: This is the most common starting point. It's designed for professionals who use the cloud-based version of QuickBooks. It covers everyday tasks like setting up a company, managing sales and expenses, and running basic reports.
This certification is ideal for bookkeepers and accountants who work with small businesses, startups, and clients who prefer the flexibility of accessing their financial data from anywhere.
QuickBooks Desktop Certification: This certification is for the traditional, locally-installed software. It covers similar core accounting functions but is specific to the Desktop versions (like Pro, Premier, and Enterprise).
Professionals who work with more established businesses, or those in industries with specific needs that are better met by the Desktop version, will find this certification valuable.
| Certification | Best For | Key Skills Covered |
|---|---|---|
| QuickBooks Online | Professionals serving clients who need remote access and flexibility. | Cloud-based setup, daily transactions, bank feeds, app integration. |
| QuickBooks Desktop | Professionals serving clients with complex inventory or industry-specific needs. | Traditional software setup, job costing, advanced reporting. |
For those looking to deepen their expertise, Intuit offers advanced certifications. The QuickBooks Online Advanced Certification, for example, is for seasoned pros. It dives into more complex topics like advanced reporting, troubleshooting tricky transactions, and managing apps that connect with QuickBooks. It’s a way to signal that you’re not just proficient, but an expert.
The ProAdvisor Program
When you start the certification process, you'll join the Intuit QuickBooks ProAdvisor Program. This is more than just a training portal; it’s a resource hub for accounting professionals. The program provides the training materials and exams for certifications, but it also offers ongoing benefits.
Being a ProAdvisor gives you access to software discounts, dedicated support from Intuit, and marketing tools. A key benefit is a listing on the Find-a-ProAdvisor directory, which helps potential clients find and hire certified professionals in their area. As you earn more certifications, your tier within the program increases, unlocking more benefits.
The program is designed to support you throughout your career, not just during the initial exam. It provides the tools to not only master QuickBooks but also to grow your accounting or bookkeeping practice.
Ready to check your understanding?
What is the primary benefit for an accountant to become a QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor?
An accountant primarily serves clients who are freelancers and owners of new e-commerce startups needing remote access to their books. Which QuickBooks certification would be most relevant for this client base?
These certifications are a clear, industry-recognized way to validate your skills and build trust with clients.