What is the title for a person certified by a state to perform accounting?

The correct answer is that a person certified by a state to perform accounting is referred to as a CPA, which stands for Certified Public Accountant. This designation is significant because it indicates that the individual has met specific educational and experience requirements and has passed the CPA exam, making them qualified to provide accounting services to the public.

CPAs have a broader scope of practice compared to other accounting professionals. They can offer various services, including audits, tax preparation, consulting, and financial planning, which requires them to adhere to strict ethical and regulatory standards imposed by state boards of accountancy.

In contrast, while an accountant is a general term for someone who manages financial records, this term does not necessarily indicate certification or specific qualifications required to perform accounting duties for the public. A bookkeeper typically handles more routine financial transactions and does not possess the extensive training or certification associated with CPA status. A financial analyst focuses on evaluating financial data and trends to guide business decisions, which is not the same as performing accounting functions as a CPA would.