Becoming a CPA in New Hampshire: A Step-by-Step Guide
New Hampshire offers a clear path for those aspiring to become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). The New Hampshire Board of Accountancy, in collaboration with NASBA, sets forth specific requirements for CPA licensure in the state. This guide will walk you through the key steps and requirements for becoming a CPA in New Hampshire.
Educational Requirements
To be eligible for the CPA Exam in New Hampshire, candidates must meet the following educational criteria:
Degree: A baccalaureate or higher degree is required.
Semester Hours: A total of 120 semester hours.
Accounting Coursework: This includes 30 semester hours in accounting subjects such as financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and taxation.
Business Coursework: Additionally, 24 semester hours in business subjects other than accounting are required.
For CPA license eligibility, candidates must complete:
Total Semester Hours: At least 150 semester hours of education.
Work Experience Requirements
To qualify for a CPA license in New Hampshire, candidates must accumulate work experience:
Full-Time Experience: At least 1 year (1,500 hours) of full-time work experience.
Part-Time Experience: Alternatively, 2,080 part-time hours within a specified period.
Supervision: The experience must be in accounting and/or audit skills, certified by a CPA from the U.S. or an individual with a foreign designation recognized by the State Board and NASBA.
Ethics Exam
Unlike many other states, New Hampshire does not require a separate CPA ethics exam. However, CPAs must complete 4 hours of continuing education in ethics during each 3-year license renewal period.
International CPA Examination Program
New Hampshire is a participant in the International CPA Examination Program. This program aids non-U.S. citizens in becoming CPAs. International candidates must have their educational credentials evaluated by NASBA International Evaluation Services (NIES).
CPA Exam and Licensing Fees
The cost for the CPA examination and initial licensing in New Hampshire includes:
Initial Application Fee: $245.00
Examination Fees (per section):
AUD: $238.15
BEC: $238.15
FAR: $238.15
REG: $238.15
Total for all sections: $1,197.60
License Application Fee: $150.00
License Renewal and CPE Requirements
CPA licenses in New Hampshire must be renewed every three years. The renewal process involves:
Continuing Professional Education (CPE): 120 hours of CPE every three years, including 4 hours in ethics.
Renewal Notification: Licensees will receive email notifications prior to the expiration date.
Renewal Fees and Reporting: Information about renewal fees and reporting forms can be found on the State Board website.
Conclusion
The journey to becoming a CPA in New Hampshire is structured around fulfilling educational requirements, passing the CPA Exam, gaining relevant work experience, and adhering to continuing education in ethics. With the state's commitment to high standards in the accounting profession, a CPA license in New Hampshire signifies a profound level of expertise and ethical responsibility in the field.